Michael I. Gavin
May 7, 1928 ~ January 3, 2024
Born in:
Clonaderig, Ireland
Resided in:
Fremont, California
Michael Gavin passed away January 3, 2024, surrounded by his family. Michael was born to Patrick and Annie Gavin on May 7, 1928, in Clonaderig, Ballinahown, Co. Offaly, Ireland. He had 3 siblings sisters Mary, Nancy, and brother Paddy of Ireland. He took the long road to his final United States destination, Fremont, California via England, Canada, New York City and San Francisco.
In 1958 he met the love of his life Ellen Kelly at soccer match at Kezar Stadium. They were engaged on Christmas eve 1959 and married on September 17, 1960. They had 4 wonderful children, Michael (Mona), Noel (Loretta), Eileen (Glen) and Patrick (Melanie). Dad was Papa Mike to Brendan (Aya), Brooks (Melynn), Bridget, Gavin (Nadia), Emma (Cole) Clare and Sean. He was also the extra special Papa Mike to his great granddaughters Lilyana Marie, Ebba Hagen, and Paisley Jo. Michael was loved by all his nieces and nephews around the globe.
Michael worked construction for many years before landing a wonderful job at American Airlines where he stayed until his retirement in1991. Michael is survived by his wife Ellen, his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Proceeded in death by his parents and sisters.
Services
Vigil: January 8, 2024 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room: Garden Chapel
Berge Papas Smith Chapel of the Angels
40842 Fremont Blvd.
Fremont, CA 94538
510-656-1226
https://www.bergepappassmith.com
Funeral Mass: January 9, 2024 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Room: Church
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish
41933 Blacow Rd.
Fremont, CA 94538
510-657-4043
Rest in peace Mike,
Condolences to Eileen and all of the family.
Niamh McLynn.
Fond memories of chats about American Football tactics, Irish Coffee mixology, Offaly GAA exploits and plenty of quick witted commentary about the Dubs.
Sincere condolences to Eileen, Michael, Noel, Eileen Anne and PJ. We know you will miss him terribly.
Pile the brown turf on the fire
bring the keg in from the barn
Let the blacksmith sing his rebel song
And the poacher tell his yarn
Come close my friends and neighbours
Fill your glasses to the brim
As we toast our Offaly heroes
From the heather, hill and glen
So long Mike, Rest in peace.
We had the great pleasure of welcoming you and Eileen to Dublin on many occasions and had many adventures together.
Mary & Brendan
You were kind generous and
a proud Irishman.
Sincere sympathy to Eileen & all the family
Mary
Mike you were a kindhearted proud Irish man and I loved meeting you and Eileen on your many trips to Ireland.
May your gentle soul rest in peaceđź’™
Helaine Pat and Conor
If you’re going to San Francisco be sure to wear flowers in your hair will always remind me of you .
Eileen & all the family. We’re so sorry for your loss.
Love always , Ann and Mike xxx
Mr. Gavin, a sweet man who gave the best hugs. I came to know “The Gavins” through your across the street neighbors in Fremont. Your loyal friendship was so precious to the Videtich family. I’ve heard many stories! But my favorite was listening to Joe tell about when the Johnson’s house caught fire. Joe arrived home to see Mike Gavin standing on the Videtich roof with a hose shouting “We’ve got to save Joe’s house!” And he did save it. A true hero for a friend.
Our family has all of you in our thoughts and prayers as you navigate through this sad time.
With love,
Jana Watts
You were always good humoured, fun and caring . My sincere condolences to your family at this sad time Xxx
To Eileen and Family, so sorry to hear about Mike’s passing. May his Gentle soul Rest in Peace. I remember you well in San Francisco/ Fremont and meeting you in the Irish Center for an Offaly game.
Always in a good humor and a very Generous man.
Dear Eileen and Family,
We are so sorry for the loss of your wonderful Dad. It was such a pleasure to meet him, what a smart, funny amazing man he was. We love you, God Bless.
Joyce and Tom
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest In Peace.
Sleep well.
Viviana and Mike Pimentel
Condolences to Eileen and all the Gavin family on the passing of Mike. He was a true Irish gentleman who had great stories to tell about his travels from Ireland to San Francisco. We will miss our visits with him in Fremont. Rest in peace Mike.