Michael Walsh, Devoted Husband,
Father, Grandfather and Volunteer
Michael Walsh, a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, friend, and decorated veteran, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, surrounded by love, as he was in life.
A man of great kindness, compassion and quiet strength, he will be remembered for his sharp wit, sense of humor, easy-going personality, love and deep connection with family and friends. He was committed to the long term relationships he developed over the years. His friendships were deep and meaningful and sustained him during challenging times. He was devoted to his family and friends, and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He took pride in his work and found joy in simple pleasures, especially time spent with family and friends, and playing golf.
Michael was born in Newark, New Jersey, and was raised in West Caldwell. He attended Essex Catholic High School in Newark, New Jersey, and Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey, on a ROTC scholarship. It was during these years that he formed lifelong fraternal bonds with his fellow brothers of The National Society of Pershing Rifles where he was a proud member of the Pershing Rifles ROTC Drill Team.
In 1968, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army Infantry Branch. He was deployed to Vietnam in 1969 where he proudly served his country in the 25th Infantry Division as a 1st Lieutenant infantry platoon leader conducting combat and pacification missions in Cu Chi and the Iron Triangle area. He was decorated with the Bronze Star and Army Air Medal for meritorious service.
While in college, he met his future wife, Darielle, and they married in 1970 upon his return from Vietnam.
While serving in the line of duty in Vietnam, he was exposed to Agent Orange and other toxins that would later lead to the diagnosis of Parkinsonism impacting his life in later years and cutting it short. During a valiant six-year battle from complications due to exposure to Agent Orange, he faced significant medical challenges with extraordinary grace and strength. Although his illness diminished his ability to speak and walk, his eyes shone with love for his family and friends.
After being honorably discharged from the army he began his civilian career at Schering Plough Pharmaceutical Corporation in Kenilworth, New Jersey. While working full-time he continued his education at Seton Hall University at night obtaining a Master Degree in Marketing. He had a successful 36-year career in the marketing and product development department as a Senior Director of Marketing and Director of Trade Sales and had responsibility for the overall management of key National and Regional Pharmaceutical Wholesalers and Chains headquartered in the Northeast. His responsibilities included supply chain management, distribution, and launch for all Schering prescription products.
In his leisure time he was an avid golfer and longtime active member of Echo Lake Country Club for 26 years. He was a Board Member serving as House Chair and enjoyed golf, dining and social activities. After retirement he became an accomplished golfer, shot a hole in one on ELCC’s 14 hole and travelled to Ireland and Scotland playing golf with friends.
Service was an important part of his life, and he was involved with many local community organizations including the Jaycee and Optimist Clubs.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Darielle, with whom he built a meaningful life. Together they raised two sons: Corey (Meghan) and Ryan (Elizabeth) and are the proud grandparents of Liam, Molly, Erin, Colin and Merritt. He is survived by his brother Donald (Marilyn) Walsh and sister Patricia (Michael) Kabara, and many loving nieces, nephews and close friends.
His legacy will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Michael’s memory to the Westfield Area YMCA.
A memorial gathering at Higgins and Bonner Funeral Home, funeral mass at Saint Helens Roman Catholic Church and burial with military honors at Fairview Cemetery will be held on September 26 and 27.
