Michael Flaherty's Obituary
On Friday, September 28, Michael Dennis Flaherty, loving husband, father, and Pop Pop, passed away at the age of 78.
Michael was born on August 4, 1940 to Kenneth and Grace (Geertsen) Flaherty in Palo Alto, CA. He received his bachelor’s degree and teaching credential from San Francisco State University. He spent time working as a teacher, a probation officer, and also travelled around the world. He married Sharon Irene Sarvey on Halloween in 1980, and would soon begin the best job he ever had: full time dad. Together he and Sharon raised two children, Molly and James.
Michael was a deep thinker. He meditated daily, even amid the chaos of the years when his children were small, taking the time each day to quiet his mind and by extension the world around him. He was a lover of books and words, and was far from laconic himself. His loquacity was a pleasure for those around him to experience, and will be sorely missed. He loved his family deeply. He also loved thunderstorms, cool weather, naps, the Giants and 49ers, giving loved ones multiple nicknames, and, of course, a beer or two. He tried each day to make the world a more loving place, both for those who knew him, and for those he only briefly met. He taught us that when someone is unkind there is only one way to respond: with love. Even when it’s the last thing we feel like doing. He would want that to be his legacy.
Michael was preceded in death by his father Kenneth, his mother Grace, and his brother Jim. He is survived by his wife Sharon, his brother John, his children Molly and James, his daughters-in-law Eileen and Isa, his grandchildren Elliot, Jonah, Emma, and Anne (arriving next year), as well as wonderful siblings-in-law, cousins, and nieces and nephews who loved him as much those listed by name. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 13 at 3:00 pm at the Chapel of the Chimes in Oakland, and a small graveside service will be held at the Caycuos-Morro Bay Cemetery on Monday, October 15 at 2:00 pm. As Michael’s favorite day of the year was Halloween, please join us in costume so that we can celebrate his life together. Flowers may be sent to the Chapel of the Chimes. Donations may be made to the San Francisco Zen Center (located in the house that was his childhood home), in care of Victoria Austin.
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