Michael E. Sullivan's Obituary
Michael (Sully) Edward Sullivan, 71, died Sunday June 12th after a long battle with Alzheimer’s and Cancer. He died at Good Shepherd Healthcare Center, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Willoughby on the Lake, August 30, 1944 to Helen and Edward Sullivan. He attended East Lake North High School, and was a star football player and a McDonalds All-American Honorable-Mention Basketball player. He was a Vietnam veteran with years of faithful service to the US Army, receiving Honorable Discharge in 1969. Michael was employed with Neutrogena Corporation for 25 years, serving as Vice President of Sales in his final years with the company. He was an avid tennis player and an active member of the community. Michael and his wife lived in Strongsville for 34 years, where he was a proud member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church. He was a veracious reader and loved to travel. After retirement he spent considerable time with his children, grandchildren, siblings, and extended family, often traveling out of state to do so. Michael was very involved with his Grandchildren’s upbringing.
Michael is survived by his loving wife, Benita Contra Sullivan, of 38 years.
Five children: Michele and Mark Sale of Lutz, FL; Jay and Carrie Sullivan of Austin, TX; Jeff and Caroline Sullivan of London, England; Mary and Steve Rassi of Highland Heights, Ohio; Maureen Sullivan of Strongsville, Ohio.
Nine Grandchildren: Tyler & Colin Wray, Austin Sale; Alexandra and Kent Sullivan; Margot and Colette Sullivan; Audrina and Briana Rassi; Michael and Sara Sullivan.
Siblings: Sally (Henry) Silvaroli of Willoughby, Ohio; Mary Ellen Spohn of Atlanta, Georgia; John Sullivan of Medina, Ohio.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Edward Sullivan; one sister-in-law Kathleen (Kay) Sullivan, and one brother-in-law Richard (Dick) Spohn.
Friends and Family may call at Jardine Funeral Home – 15822 Pearl Rd, Strongsville, Thursday, June 16th from 4-8PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, June 17th at noon at Saint John Neumann Catholic Church – 15831 Pearl Rd, Strongsville.
Donations are being accepted for Alzheimers Association – www.alz.org in Michael’s name.
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?