Michael was born on February 9, 1946, in Baltimore, MD. The son of Thomas and Dolores McKenna, he graduated from Richard Montgomery High School in Rockville, MD. He was drafted and fought in the Vietnam War.
Michael had a colorful professional life which included co-owning Mr. Henry's, a popular drinking hole in Washington, D.C. He also managed a fuel oil company in Tupper Lake, NY, where he lived for many years. Most recently, he created whimsical and unique funky lighting fixtures and sculptures which can be found in homes and establishments throughout The Valley and Vermont.
Michael was a character. He was forever kidding with children. He never left home without his trusty Super Glue and Sharpie pen in his pocket. He could make anything and fix anything. His phone messages were unforgettable, his irreverence, priceless.
Michael is survived by his wife, Catherine, and their children, Keegan and Martha of Warren, and his daughter, Kate of Potsdam, New York; his sister Maureen Macchio and her husband Fred Macchio of Richardson, Texas, his sister Molly Racic of Frostburg, MD, and his brother Mark McKenna and his wife Rita; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service is planned for Sunday, December 14, 2008, at the Round Barn in Waitsfield at 4 p.m. Guests are encouraged to write their stories and memories about Michael for a book for Michael's children and bring them to the service.
Carpooling would be appreciated. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Mad River Valley Community Fund, P.O. Box 353, Waitsfield, VT 05673 or the Vermont Foodbank, Attn: Melissa Baptiewright, P.O. Box 254, South Barre, VT 05670
