Michael Francis Garrity
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Michael Francis Garrity died peacefully at his home in Bluffton, South Carolina on July 24, 2022. He was born in Evanston, IL November 15th,1938. He was a graduate of St. George High School and DePaul University, with a BSB, and was an active Alpha Chi fraternity member. There he met and married his college sweetheart, Carol Connolly Garrity. They had three children Michael Francis Jr. (deceased), Jennifer Ann Grinko (Robert) and Timothy Wendell Garrity (Enza). Mike leaves behind his loving Sister, Mary Garrity Bocchino (John) who joined him on many worldwide adventures. Mike was predeceased by his Father, Edward T. Garrity; Stepfather, Wendell E. Smith; Mother Lois P. Hanney; his Son Michael F. Garrity Jr.; and Sister Judy G. Garrity. Later in life Mike married Susan Kraemer (deceased) and has a step daughter Ashley Kraemer. He was an amazing grandfather to four grandkids, Liam Garrity, Finnegan Garrity, Dylan Grinko and Jillian Grinko. His pride and joy was spending time with his grandchildren during his summers in Door County, Wisconsin. Family time in Fish Creek included board and card games, barbequing, spending time at the beach and taking boat rides. He had a deep commanding voice and professional presence about him. In fact he surprised an audience at the Empire Room in Chicago singing, San Francisco with his deep voice, captivating the audience while entertaining clients with his wife, Carol. Those close to him know he was jovial, a jokester filling our lives with laughter. He had a strong work ethic and a long, distinguished 43-year career at Central Steel and Wire, starting as a sales executive and retiring as regional sales manager. He entertained many clients through his years at Evanston Golf Club. His favorite pastime was playing and watching golf at his summer home in Fish Creek, WI. He had a sharp mind, was dependable and had a special knack for problem-solving. He was an enthusiastic traveler throughout the world but was genuinely happiest at home with a mystery novel and a cigar close by. He later retired to Bluffton, S.C., living there the past 19 years.
A celebration of life with visitation at St. Norberts in Northbrook, IL on August 4, 2022, 9:15 am, followed by 10:00 am Mass. He will be resting peacefully in Blossomberg Cemetery in Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, WI. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be made to NorthShore Foundation, Kellogg Cancer Center at https://foundation.northshore.org/garrity