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Michael Dolan Obituary
Born in Providence, he was the beloved son of Barbara Dolan of Westerly and the late Edward J. Dolan Sr.
Mike was a graduate of Stonington High School Class of '81, where he excelled both scholastically and in athletics. He was a member of Stonington's 1980 All Decade Team in football. After graduating from Stonington, he attended Kents Hill School in Augusta, Maine, where he played basketball and football. At Trinity College he continued his athletic achievements as a standout football and lacrosse player.
For many years, Mike was a key employee for Dooney and Bourke, helping to establish the brand on the East Coast, and was instrumental in establishing shipping centers around the country. He worked as a real estate agent for Switz Real Estate for several years.
Mike had inexhaustible energy and varied interests. An avid sportsman and outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting and was renowned for his infinite care in preserving all aspects of the environment and his rigorous adherence to safety practices. One of only three certified sharpshooters in the state of Connecticut, his skills were in great demand on many wildlife excursions across North America. Mike also loved boating and salt water fishing.
He was an accomplished pilot who flew for many years and was qualified to fly anything from a Tail Dragger to a Lear jet. Mike was the consummate host and a gourmet chef, ever willing with his wife Debbie, to entertain family and friends. His kind heart and generous spirit brought great joy to all the lives he has touched.
In addition to his wife and mother, Michael leaves two brothers, Edward J. Dolan Jr. and Steven R. Dolan of Westerly; and a sister, Susan M. Dolan of Sanger, Texas; his two beloved dogs, Ruby and Sydney; and several nieces and nephews.
Visiting hours are omitted. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Liturgy at 10 a.m. on Friday at St. Mary's Church, 95 Main St., Stonington. Burial will follow at River Bend Cemetery, Westerly.
Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home, 59 Spruce St., Westerly, is in charge of the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to either St. Michael Capital Campaign, 60 Liberty St., Pawcatuck, CT 06379 or Stand Up For Animals, PO Box 1706, Westerly, RI 02891, in Mickey's memory.
For online condolences, please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Dolan
Sponsored by Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home - Westerly.
Maxson B Hence
February 17, 2024
Out of sheet coincidence, Dom (also Mikey's Bud) and I dumped into each other at the Y on Wednesday and began to reminisce about our mutual friend and how much we missed him. I, personally, referred to Mikey as inspirational, yet he was so calm, relaxed, and not self absorbed. We asked each other why he had to go so early? My answer was God needed help. We love Michael.
Maxson B Hence
Maxson B Hence
February 17, 2023
It was through the YMCA and my frequenting of the borough that I came to know Michael. As an athlete myself, I stood in awe of the many things Michael could do in the wellness center and on the court - he always set a high standard, had fun doing so, and somehow made you feel a part of his success. Michael's spirit was and still is contagious and ubiquitous! A generous and ever happy soul...love you Michael.
Maxson Hence
February 17, 2022
Michael was an amazing man with droves of energy that he was always willing to share. Always fun to chat with and watch in his pursuits. Michael was among my favorites, warm and fun and a delight to meet at the Y, where we often did. Loved Michael and wishing him and his family eternal happiness!
Nancy Seifert
February 17, 2021
On the 5th Anniversary of such a dear friend’s memorial , I sit and remember the first time we met, first sports games I watched you play in and the first time you came to our summer home etc. All memories that are forever fresh as if they happened yesterday.
You may have been gone for 5 yrs from earth, but your beautiful spirit lives on in ever memory of you that is held deep in our hearts.
I’m just one of many who’s hearts you’ve touched.
Thinking of you today and always Mike!
Until we meet again! We hold you in our hearts forever.
Love,
Nancy Griswold- Seifert
Greg Richo
August 2, 2016
Dear Dolan Family, I just learned of Mike's passing today. He was a warm, welcoming and lively person off the football field. On the field, he was intense and competitive. As a freshman at Trinity, I watched his work ethic, and that drove me to work harder. It was a pleasure to be a fellow defensive back for the Bants and to have gotten to know him during my collegiate years. He will be missed.
A. M.
March 18, 2016
My sympathy goes out to the family during your time of grief. May God's loving-kindness comfort you and help you through this difficult time. (Psalm 119:50,76)
Harry Chiappone
March 14, 2016
Sorry for the loss, Michael was a very good man.
Kevin Kelliher
March 5, 2016
To Ed, Steve and the Dolan family. . .
I'd like to extend my deepest and heart felt condolences. While attending Central Conn. State University, both Mike Spellmen and I visited Mike numerous times while he was taking classes Trinity College. Many great times!!!
Mike strived to live to the best of his God given abilities. Moreover, he set many great examples of how one should live life both for himself and in the community. Yes, a great person has left us but the examples he set are lifelong memories that will never fade.
May the youthful memories of life, growing up in the Pawcatuck/Westerly area, always give us a warm smile. May the years of early adulthood (college, Misquamicut Beach, etc.) add to these endearing thoughts . . . and may the hopes and dreams of a greater tomorrow guide us through the next passages in life.
I will hold "dear" these memories and examples for a lifetime . . . while passing them on to the next generation.
Kevin Kelliher (Stonington, CCSU and URI Alumni )
March 3, 2016
To the Dolan family; my condolences on Mike's passing. He was a wonderful man, a great competitor, and had a great attitude towards life. Ed, and Steve, I'm so sorry for your loss, Robert Mindeck.
Kelly Cordner
March 2, 2016
Barbara, Susan, Eddie, and Steve ...
Words can not convey how I feel. I am so sorry that I could not be there to hug you all, but please know that I was there in spirit! Michael and all of you have a special place in my heart ... great neighbors, great friends, and great people! Sending love and hugs to each and every one of you! My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time!
Caroline Komorowski
March 2, 2016
Dear Dolan Family,
So sorry to hear of Michael's passing. Our deepest sympathy for your loss. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Michael and Caroline Nigrelli Komorowski, Samuel Nigrelli Jr, and John and Samuel Nigrelli III.
March 2, 2016
To my work out buddy and ever so gleeful friend who knew only how to impart joy in your life. While I did not know Mickey as well as some and family, I felt very close to him, as if it had been a lifetime. His kind soul will reverberate always. With love and peace, Maxson B Hence
March 1, 2016
To the Dolan families
Ed and Stephen
So sorry to hear of Michaels passing
my prayers and thoughts are with you all,my deepest sympathy
Karen Giorno
February 28, 2016
Barbara, so sorry been there done that we are irish and strong my heart goes out to all of you Dolans may he rest in peace
Betty Tillinghast
Donna & Paul Page
February 28, 2016
Steve &Ed sorry to hear of the passing of Mike your family is in our prayers
Judy McDougall
February 26, 2016
Dear Mrs. Dolan & Family,
I was so saddened by the news of Mike's passing. He was such an integral part of Castle Hill memories and childhood connections for our family. Mike just had that ability to make you feel good about life and appreciate the finer things. You are all in my thoughts and prayers at this time. May the memories of his unique personality bring a smile to your face at this time and for years to come!
Take good care of one another! Judy Fritz McDougall
Hal & Julie Panciera
February 26, 2016
Dear Debbie, Mrs. Dolan, Ed, Steve & Susan,
We extend our heartfelt condolences to all of you, Mickey fought a courageous fight and it is sorrowful to have him leave all of you. We were so happy to have had a chance to spend some quality time with him during the summer. God Bless!
Steven Chester
February 26, 2016
Ed and Steve sorry for your loss.
Dave Pacheco Jr
February 26, 2016
The Dolan Family,
I am deeply sorry to hear of Mike's passing. He was an amazing person and friend, and will be missed by all. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Dominic Rapini
February 26, 2016
We are very sad to learn of Mike's passing - it was a privilege to have been a teammate of Mikes - God's speed.
- a fellow Bantam
Kit Cyr
February 26, 2016
My most sincere condolences go out to all of Mickey's family. We graduated from SHS together. He was always quick with a big hug and warm smile. We've lost a truly wonderful person much too early......
David Griswold
February 26, 2016
Dear Dolan Family,
Anyone can be forgotten but not a man who chose a life of selflessness and generosity. Mike embodied this type of man, he befriended me in school, on the football field and as we grew older when we would cross paths Mike was the first with open arms to say Gilly how the hell are you? Death can never take a good man away, for in the hearts of the people Mike inspired, his legacy remains and will forever throughout generations.
My deepest sympathy
David Griswold
February 26, 2016
To Deb and the entire Dolan Family,
Words cannot express my deepest sympathies for you at this time. Mike was truly one of the best, who never had a boring day in his life, and positively touched everyone he came into contact with. I am proud to call Mike my friend, and a close friend at that, and to have so many fond memories of our times together. May he rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Mark McDonough
David Griswold
February 25, 2016
To the Dolan Family,
Anyone can be forgotten but not a man who chose a life of selflessness and generosity. Mike embodied this type of man, he befriended me in school, on the football field and as we grew older when we would cross paths Mike was the first with open arms to say Gill how the hell are you? Death can never take a good man away, for in the hearts of the people Mike inspired, his legacy remains and will forever throughout generations.
My deepest sympathy
David Griswold
David Griswold
February 25, 2016
Dear Dolan Family
Anyone can be forgotten but not a man who chose a life of selflessness and generosity. Mike embodied this type of man, he befriended me in school, on the football field and as we grew older when we would cross paths Mike was the first with open arms to say Gilly how the hell are you? Death can never take a good man away, for in the hearts of the people Mike inspired, his legacy remains and will forever throughout generations.
My deepest sympathy
David Griswold
Grace Quaratella
February 25, 2016
Our deepest sympathies to Barbara and the Dolan family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Joe and Grace Quaratella
Lynda Lumnah-Mills
February 25, 2016
Dear Mrs Dolan, Susan, Eddie and Steve,
I was so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I can still hear him laughing and see his infectious smile, he was always the life of the party. I was lucky to have known him. Please know my family's thoughts and prayers are with his wife and your entire family during this most difficult time. God Bless
Dave Bunn
February 25, 2016
You are a good friend. I will miss you greatly. Good Night! Dave Bunn
February 25, 2016
You are a good friend. You will be missed greatly. Good night! Dave Bunn
John an marge Fusaro
February 25, 2016
Our condolences to the Dolan family. So very sorry for your loss.
Lucas Arnold
February 25, 2016
My deepest sympathies to the Dolan Family. Mike was a great man. I will dearly miss playing basketball at the YMCA with him. He always brought a great energy to the game and to life.
April & Phil Baker
February 25, 2016
Dear Deb and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Mike was an amazing, inspirational man. My thoughts are with you.
February 25, 2016
Sincere sympathy to Barbara, Ed, Steve and Michaels wife.
May you find comfort knowing he is in a better place.
John and Angela Dionne
February 25, 2016
My deepest sympathy to the entire Dolan family. May Michael Rest in Peace.
Gene Boumenot
February 25, 2016
Stever and Mike:
Your brothers at the Workmen's Club share your sorrow and loss. You and the entire Dolan family are in our thoughts, prayers and hearts.
Paula Widstrom
February 25, 2016
My thoughts and prayers to the Dolan family in the loss of Mike, a most kind, caring man.
Mike Tourville
February 25, 2016
RIP Mike ...I will always remember the fun times we had together.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Dolan Family
Mike & Doreen
February 25, 2016
Eddie, Steve and family, My sincere condolences to you all for the loss of Mike. My prayers are with you.
Sincerely, Maurice Burns Jr
Paula,Julia,Nick and Kenny Reid
February 25, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Dolan family in this most difficult time
Rest in peace mike
Brent Fusaro
February 24, 2016
I'm very sorry for your loss. Michael would always go out of his way to say hello. Such a nice guy. We played ball quite a bit at the YMCA.
Kris Pescatello Slocum
February 24, 2016
From the old Castle Hill days, to math football in Mr. Fletcher's 6th grade class at WVSS, right up until the present. Always the twinkle in the eye, the slightly mischievous smile, and the friendship that made you feel like you were his best friend. Rest in Peace, Mickey, you will be missed by so many of us but you have left us better for having known you.
Janna Greenhalgh
February 24, 2016
I send prayers of peace and healing to those who knew and loved Mike. His quick wit, sharp spark of life and wry smirk will live on with all of us.
February 24, 2016
My thoughts are with the Dolan family. Mike was truly a dynamic person who lived life full of enthusiasm and great accomplishments. But he will be remembered by me mostly as a friend.
-Brian McCabe
February 24, 2016
Very sorry to hear about your husband. He was certainly a wonderful guy and went far too soon. Sincere sympathies to you. Cathy Leinert
Carly Sullivan
February 24, 2016
Mikey was a man full of enthusiasm and kindness. His relationship with my Dad was special and truly one I admire. I will never forget the way he made us all laugh. He will be missed.
Al Hare
February 24, 2016
BFF
February 24, 2016
We are so sorry for your loss. You are now and always in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Tom and Joyce Jones
February 24, 2016
Steve, Eddie and family, We are so sorry for your loss. Your in our thoughts and prayers. Ritt and Donna Shawn
Leigh (O'Connell) Montgomery
February 24, 2016
My deepest sympathies to the entire Dolan family. I will always remember Mike's contagious smile and friendly personality! Sending you all much love.
Lori Young Skelton
February 24, 2016
I haven't seen Mike in years, but I can tell from that picture he still had that great smile that always projected such spirit and happiness towards others. My condolences to all of you in your loss of a special family member.
Pam Cozzolino Urso
February 24, 2016
Please accept my sympathy on the loss of Mickey. He certainly fought a brave fight. He truly was someone who could bring humor to any situation-I have so many great memories of him cracking us all up and everyone just shaking our heads at his antics at Westerly Airport and Dooney. Godspeed Mickey. I pray you are already shaking up things in the sky that you so loved.
Kevin Simmons
February 24, 2016
God Bless
Mark Lenihan
February 24, 2016
Steve, Ed, Debbie and family
Mike was truly one of the best people I have ever met. He will be sadly missed but always remembered with love in our hearts. So many memories I have with him that I will always hold close. I hope you find comfort in family and friends.
Joe Balerna
February 24, 2016
My dear friend . Always a giver. Treasured life so much!!!! So sorry for your loss. I will miss him dearly.
Frank & Mary Bliven
February 24, 2016
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.
Gina Slafkovsky
February 24, 2016
To the Dolan Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Mike will so sadly be missed , nicest guy anyone could meet. Rip Mike
Jane Hallisey
February 24, 2016
Dear Mrs. Dolan and family, Michael was a breath of fresh air each and every time I saw him, I will never forget how he and Mark would got off together and some how ended up at my house for some much needed sleep. He was one of a kind and will be sadly missed. My deepest condolences to you and your family. May he rest in peace.
February 24, 2016
To the Dolan Family:
My deepest sympathies. Mike was a special person and will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.
Jim Murano
February 24, 2016
To Steve and family,
I wish to express my deepest sympathy on your loss. Mike was such a kind, polite and funny gentleman! I pray you may find peace and comfort in your memories.
Jane Evans Silva
Denise Derosier
February 24, 2016
To all of the Dolan family we are so sorry for your loss Micky was a great guy ! way to young to die ! Prayers and thoughts to all of you and hugs + <3 Denise Beddell Derosier
Suzanne Fetter
February 24, 2016
So sorry, Steve and Ed. I hope that you are able to find comfort during this time of grief, just as you have done for so many.
Kerry Muntimuri
February 24, 2016
Always had a smile that could light up a room. Rest in peace.
Nani
February 24, 2016
so sorry for your loss - Mike was an exceptional dude!
Terry Malaghan
February 24, 2016
Will miss his smiling face and friendly banter at the YMCA, Mike was certainly a great guy, so sorry for your loss.
Anthony Smith
February 24, 2016
To the Dolan Family,sorry for your loss!!!R.I.P. Mike!!!
Lisa Roderick-Knepshield
February 24, 2016
Dear Steve and family , what a terrible tragedy for you all. My deepest sympathy. Take good care of each other .
Jill Thomas
February 24, 2016
Dear Steve and family, My sincere condolences to you all for the loss of Mike. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
MaryDolores Piccolo
February 24, 2016
Keeping you all in Prayer. I am sorry for your loss. God Bless.
Nancy Law
February 24, 2016
So deeply sorry. Mike will be remembered forever. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. Sincerely, and with love, NancyLaw
Curt Edwards
February 24, 2016
My deepest sympathy and condolences to the Dolan family! RIP my fellow classmate and teammate!
Roberta Kessler
February 24, 2016
Dear Mrs. Dolan, Deborah, Eddie, Susan, Steven, loving family & friends,
So very sorry for your tremendous loss. Michael meant so much to so many. The life he lived was so full and rich; he had every gift but length of years. Praying God will give you what your hearts need most right now.
Roberta
Carole Ornberg
February 24, 2016
To the Dolan family I am deeply saddened for your loss hold all your beautiful memories close to your heart.
Robert J. Chiaradio, Jr.
February 24, 2016
I send my sincere condolences to the entire Dolan family at this sad time. Mike was a long-time friend, who could always be counted on in times of need. His spirit and his warmth helped make Mike such a unique person. He will certainly be missed. God bless Mike, and all of you.
Nate and Sandy Gencarella
February 24, 2016
Eddie, Steve and the entire Dolan Family our sincere condolences on the passing of your dear brother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May he rest in peace and may the comfort of family and friends be your strength today and the days to come.
joe shea
February 24, 2016
i was the coach of the dolan softball team at craigs field for years.i had the pleasure of the dolan boys on my team..awesome boys all of them....rip micky
Bambi Poppick
February 24, 2016
Deb, I am so sorry for your loss. It was easy to see that you and Mike were very much in love; a true love story. You are in my thoughts.
Fondly,
Bambi
steven spellman
February 24, 2016
Susan, Steve, Ed and family,
From the time he was a boy, Mike always had that twinkle in his eye and smile that made you happy to see him. I am so sorry for your loss.
Nathan Wheeler Jr
February 24, 2016
Steve,Ed, Debbie and family
My deepest sympathy goes out to all of you. Mike was a great person with a big heart.I will never forget the times we had at Tom Cannans farm as a kid putting in hay and all the joking around and laughs that we all had will never be forgotten.I'm sure He and Tom are looking over us now.Mike will be sadly missed by all.
Nathan Wheeler Jr and family
Kathy Day
February 24, 2016
Ed And Steve, My deepest condolences to you and yours. Mike was one of a kind. I'm sure my dad and your dad are giving him a warm welcome right now.
Mike and Heather Spellman
February 24, 2016
Please accept our deepest sympathy and condolences upon Mike's passing. He was one of a kind and forever remembered for his kind heart and with a smile. The Dolan family is in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Keith Main Jr and Family
February 24, 2016
Prayers go out to the Dolan family. Michael will be missed. I have so many great memories that I'll always hold close to me.
February 24, 2016
Ed and Steve,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this most difficult time.
Sincerely, Theresa wright
Tammy Caron
February 24, 2016
Steve so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. My thoughts and prayers are w you and your family.
Ryan Sullivan
February 24, 2016
I will always remember Mickey as a generous, unselfish and kind person. For as long as I can remember, whenever we were in town Mickey always found a way to entertain and put a smile on our faces. He filled my stomach with some of the best food I've ever had; the shrimp in particular. I want to thank Mickey for being such a good man to my family, but, even more for being such a great friend to my Dad. You will be missed.
Pearl L. Brown
February 24, 2016
Ed, Steve I am sorry to hear of your brothers passing. RIP Mike
February 24, 2016
Steve,Ed & family. We are ver sorry to hear of the passing of Mike.Our condolences to you & your families.
Jeff & Kate Butler & family
Michael Dipollino
February 24, 2016
To the entire Dolan family my sincere condolences on the passing of Michael. He was a fine young man and I am sure that he will be missed by the many lives that he touched along his journey. May God have Mercy on his Soul and may he rest in Peace.
February 24, 2016
Mrs. Dolan and Family,We are very sorry for your loss of Michael.Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.Louis and Valerie Pappadia.
Michael Alice
February 24, 2016
Ed,Steve and Deborah, My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you and your entire family. Mike gave me alot of laughs and good times. he will be sadly missed.
Massimo Agresti
February 24, 2016
Thanks for all the few great moments we have been living together, I had one of the greatest time of my life when we have flown together and you were teaching me how to fly. Rest in Peace.
N Seifert
February 23, 2016
Dear Steve, Mrs Dolan and family
Our deepest sympathy and prayers of comfort be with you.
I was so blessed to have known Mike and he always...always had a smile on his face. He always had kind words to me whenever I saw him. Just a wonderful person.
I'm extremely thankful to God that our paths crossed yrs ago.
God bless.
Sincerely,
Nancy Griswold -Seifert family
Luisa & Jose Trujillo
February 23, 2016
Debbie, we were deeply saddened to hear about your loss, and we like to extend our deepest condolences to you and Michael family. You are all in both of our thoughts, and payers
Sandra Logan
February 23, 2016
Oh my, I just heard of Mikes passing, I am so sorry to hear, my condolences to all. Although it has been years since Mike and I saw each other and always was years in between saying hello to each other in passing, Mike always treated you like your best friend that he just saw yesterday, he really was a super guy and always a joy to run into. I will never forget that smile he always had on his face. So sorry to all for your loss.
February 23, 2016
Ed,Steve,Mrs. Dolan and family our deepest condolences in this sorrowful time and for the loss of Michael. Our deepest sympathy and prayers are with you all. Sully, Elaine and family
Tina WoodallCampbell
February 23, 2016
Ed and family I am so sorry for your loss. Deepest condolences to all of you.
February 23, 2016
Dear Barbara, Deb Steve and Ed, so sorry to hear of your loss. From your family's involvement over the Pawcatuck little league years and your family involvement in the professional comfort that you have provided to the endless number of families in this community I extend my sincere condolences. Carol r Murray and the late John t. Murray
Karen (Meisel) Bellis
February 23, 2016
Ed, so sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to you and your family.
February 23, 2016
Dear Dolan family, Deb, Steve, Ed and Barbara,,, so very sorry to hear of your loss. As an additive to the John t. Murray family through marriage our paths have passed many times throughd
Don and Dale Allen
February 23, 2016
Very sorry for your loss prayers for all.
Dale Quattromani
February 23, 2016
Ed and Steve so sorry for the loss of your brother.
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