Irving H. "Michael" McConchie's Obituary
Irving H. "Michael" McConchie, a cherished pillar of his community and a beacon of warmth to all who knew him, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025, at the venerable age of 102 in Avon, Ohio. Born on February 7, 1923, in the quaint coastal town of Owls Head, Maine, Mike’s life was one of dedication and service that touched innumerable lives.
Mike attended Rockland High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically, playing football with a passion that would follow him throughout his life. His pursuit of higher education led him to Springfield College, where he continued to shine on the football field.
The call of duty saw Mike serve his country as a member of the WWII Army Air Corps. After the war, he embraced the life of a commercial lobster fisherman, a career that not only showcased his love for the sea but also his entrepreneurial spirit. Mike's work ethic and commitment to his craft earned him the respect and admiration of his peers. For almost 40 years he fished the waters of Penobscot Bay, retiring in 1984, so that he and Gerry could winter in Florida, and continue their avid golfing.
Mike’s heart belonged to his beloved wife, Geraldine N. McConchie, with whom he shared 69 years of marriage until her passing in 2016. He once called her his “rudder.” Together, they raised their daughter, Julie Forte (David F. Forte), a resident of Lakewood, Ohio, since 1981, with the same values of love and integrity that defined their own lives. Mike took pride in his role as a grandfather to James and William Forte, creating memories that will be treasured forever.
Mike was a devoted brother to Arnold (Lucille), Athleen (James Pease), Madelyn (Leroy Benner), and Nathan, all now deceased. His role as an uncle was cherished by his many nieces and nephews throughout New England, who will remember him for his good cheer and the stories he shared.
Mike's commitment to his community was unwavering. During the 1950’s and 1960’s, Mike served on the local School Board and the Rockland City Council. While on the School Board, he was chairman of the building committee for the new high school built in the early 1960’s. After moving to Owls Head in 1971, he was a town selectman for several years. He was a life-long member of the Kiwanis Club in Rockland and a member of the Board of Directors of Pen Bay Hospital in Rockport, Maine. These years of dedication to civic activities as well as his participation in the Masonic Temple and as a Shriner reflected his belief in service above self.
In his later years, Mike's love for travel saw him split his time between the sunny shores of Florida and the familiar landscapes of Maine. Eventually, he settled near Cleveland, Ohio, first in Strongsville and then in Avon Lake, to be closer to his daughter and her family.
Mike's legacy is one of love, laughter, and accomplishment. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will continue for generations to come.
SERVICES MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2025. A Memorial Gathering will begin at 1:30PM until the time of service at 2PM at JARDINE FUNERAL HOME, 15822 PEARL RD, STRONGSVILLE. His funeral will occur in Maine in October, followed by internment there. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children online at https://shrinerschildrens.org or by mailing a donation to Shriners Children’s/ Attn: Shriners Children’s / PO Box 947765/ Atlanta, GA 30394.
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