Michael Joseph Giblin Jr.'s Obituary
Michael J. Giblin Jr., age 88, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, in Norton
Shores, MI.
Mike was born on February 14, 1937, to Michael and Dorothy (Brennan) Giblin Sr. in Chicago, IL.
He was a proud Veteran and member of the US Marine Corps Reserves (1955-1956), served in
Active Duty in the Army in Germany as an artillery observer (1956-1958), and then was active in
the Army Reserves (1958-1959). After returning to the United States, he married his high school
sweetheart, Carol Hosler, on November 29, 1958, and they spent 66 blessed and wonderful
years together.
Mike earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Aquinas College in 1962 and an MBA in
Taxation from Grand Valley State University in 1977. He started his accounting career working
with accounting firms, then worked at Rapistan (1965-1971) and Bennett Pump (1971-1996, VP
of Finance). He had a strong work ethic which he passed on to his family.
Upon retiring, Mike spent his time volunteering with various organizations such as Ottawa County Senior Tax Assistance Program, Habitat for Humanity and Feeding America of West Michigan. However, he was happiest when helping his friends and neighbors. He and Carol were able to enjoy extensive travel, which allowed them to pursue their love of hiking. He had a true lifelong passion for cars, enjoyed his motorcycle, and looked forward to bowling and golfing with his friends. His outgoing personality nurtured lasting friendships. He was genuinely interested in everyone he met and truly enjoyed engaging strangers in conversation. He had a wonderful sense of humor and lighthearted spirit, which continued even through his battle with cancer. He treasured gatherings with friends and family, usually being the last to leave any party.
However, most important to Mike was his family. He was a devoted father and grandfather. He
and Carol experienced many adventures with their three daughters, including snowmobiling,
camping (in a very small trailer!), innumerable band concerts, and sporting events. He adored
his three grandchildren and felt blessed to be involved in their lives. He cheered at soccer and
football games, played hockey and golf with them as often as possible, attended piano recitals
and supported them in every way possible. He is deeply loved and will be greatly missed.
He is survived by his wife, Carol Giblin; children; Nancy (Ron) Johnson, Kathy (Tom) Fitzpatrick
and Susan Giblin; 3 grandchildren; Kellen Fitzpatrick, Andrew Fitzpatrick and Emily Johnson; his
brother, Thomas (Sandra) Giblin and nephew, Ryan (Liz) Giblin. He is preceded in death by his
parents, Michael and Dorothy Giblin Sr. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made
to Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids or Feeding America of West Michigan. VISITATION
will be Wednesday, April 9, 2025, from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM at St. Frances de Sales Catholic
Church, 2929 McCracken, Muskegon, MI. 49441 with a MEMORIAL MASS at 11:00 AM and a
LUNCHEON to follow. Arrangements through the Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and
Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St. Norton Shores, MI. 49444. Please consider signing the
family’s online guestbook and share memories at sytsemafh.com
What’s your fondest memory of Michael?
What’s a lesson you learned from Michael?
Share a story where Michael's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michael you’ll never forget.
How did Michael make you smile?