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Michael McCarthy Obituary
February 24, 1961 - November 17, 2022
Mike McCarthy was returned to stardust (his words) November 17 from his home in Richmond, Virginia. He was 61 and faced a cancer diagnosis two years ago with courage and determination to continue living a full and happy life.
Mike was born in Toledo, Ohio, sixth of eight children of Dan and Katie McCarthy. He was the quiet one and the only one who didn't need glasses. He grew up to be smart, funny, and kind. He graduated from DeVilbiss High School, earned his bachelor's at the University of Toledo and his master's at the University of New Mexico. He taught high school English in New Mexico, California, and Michigan, and then, after wooing and winning wife Cheryl (Kizer) Ireland, settled in Richmond.
Mike met Cheryl when they worked at Boogie Records in the '80s. Years later, while living in California, he organized a Toledo reunion of Boogie employees just so he could hang out with her. Maybe she was swayed by his dancing records logo tattoo, but they were married on a beach in 2013.
Mike loved teaching, books, music, doing household projects, and building things. In his last few days he and Cheryl listened to music very loud and he noted that the new John Irving was a bit disappointing.
He will be greatly missed by Cheryl and her children with the late Tim Ireland, Chelsea (Brian Harte), Hayden (Alan Ireland), and Griffin. He loved being Papa to Cheryl's granddaughters, Finley and Rowan. His dog LP will miss sitting on his lap. Cheryl's parents, John and Barbara Kizer and sister Julie Kizer Ball (Roger) now live in Annapolis, Maryland and will miss visits with Mike. He leaves a big hole in his McCarthy family, Jim (Gayle Phillips), Tom (Lynn), Terry (Ann Radnich), Mary Pat (Patrick Lewandowski), Mark (Hollis) Anne Wessels (Duane) and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by both parents and his brother John.
Two weeks ago Mike told Griffin, "I had my life, I had my wife, I had music. It was enough." There will be a remembrance for Toledo friends at a later date. In remembrance of Mike, please donate to a heartfelt cause and hold your loved ones tight.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael McCarthy
Michael
February 8, 2023
I had him as a teacher and I really liked him. He worked hard to make a boring subject interesting.
My prayers go out to his family. I am sorry for your loss.
Colin Capshaw
February 4, 2023
I worked with Michael at Manos Greek restaurant in downtown Toledo. He was a great person. Prayers for his family and love ones.
Ike Tucker
November 22, 2022
Mike was a great colleague but more importantly a dear friend! He reminded me of the fun uncle at the family reunion. He had a sharp wit and was always in the mood for a laugh! I will miss our "philosophical conversations" over a tall one at Tres Machos!
Jennifer Coleman
November 21, 2022
I am extremely saddened to hear about the loss of Mike. I remember his smile and his calm way when we would talk together with students. I pray that loving memories will bring you comfort during this difficult time.
John and Bonnie Cima
November 21, 2022
So sorry to hear this! Prayers of God´s peace and comfort to Cheryl and the entire family.
Sharon Geavin-Boehme
November 20, 2022
I know after he visits with all of his family waiting to see him up in heaven, he and my brother Denny (Garvin) will be hiking the hills of Hocking or Kentucky or just "hanging out"! RIP Mike.
Terry Menefee-Gau
November 20, 2022
Oh, Cheryl. I'm so very sorry to hear of Mike's passing. Please know that I'm sending you and your family all the good energy I can muster so you can find peace and light and strength in the coming days. Much love.
David Crighton and Rebecca Anderson
November 20, 2022
Our sympathies to Cheryl and the rest of his family. Mike was always a delight to be around and will be sorely missed.
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