DEACON MIKE MCGILLICUDDY

Deacon Mike McGillicuddy Deacon Mike was born Robert Michael McGillicuddy in Seattle Aug. 13, 1935 to parents Nellie Taylor and John McGillicuddy. He passed away Aug. 24, 2015 in Seattle. He attended St. Alphonsus Grade School in Ballard, and was the valedictorian of his class at O'Dea High School. After graduating from Seattle University, he began his career teaching for the Seattle School District at the elementary and secondary levels, including leading the Special Education Department at Ballard High School. In 1975 Mike entered the Seattle Archdiocese Deacon program, and was ordained in the first class of Permanent Deacons. He faithfully served at St. Theresa Parish in Federal Way, and All Saints Parish in Puyallup in Youth and Parish Ministry. Throughout his life he coached many youth sports teams, entertained with magic tricks, and became a drug and alcohol counselor. He had a gift for connecting with teens, and was a counselor and friend to many. In 1987 Deacon Mike was honored with the Seattle PI Jefferson Award for his youth counseling work in the areas of drug, alcohol, and emotional problems. He helped found the Personalized Education Program for juveniles, the first state-financed program for the prevention of juvenile delinquency in Washington State. Preceded in death by sister Betty Seifert and brother Jerry, he is survived by his brother J. Patrick McGillicuddy, numerous nieces and nephews, and his many dear friends. Mass of Christian Burial on Sept. 5 at 11:00am at All Saints Catholic Church, Puyallup. Donations may be made to All Saints Catholic Church. Arrangements by his friends at Hill Funeral Home, 253-845-1172