Michael P. Gildea

Michael Patrick Gildea, 67, of Saratoga Springs, NY and Vero Beach, FL passed away unexpectedly on February 4, 2022. He was born on April 2, 1954, in Queens, NY. He relocated to Saratoga Springs with his parents, Louise and John McDonnell, after graduating from Grover Cleveland High School. This is where he met Sharon, his loving wife of 47 years.

His long career as a millwright included positions at Saint Gobain in Watervliet and General Dynamics in West Milton. Mike was passionate about his work as a union representative, and was a proud and dedicated advocate on behalf of his fellow employees.

Mike was a self-taught jack of all trades, and over the years, he went on to master many of them. He was a skilled carpenter and completed many home improvement projects for his extended family and friends. This work included building decks, installing floors and countertops, as well as plumbing and light electrical, which was one of the many ways he expressed his love.

Mike never shied away from hard work, and he had an unwavering willingness to be there for the people he loved.

Mike modestly touched the lives of many, particularly through his love for baseball. He spent over a decade coaching his brother’s little league team and daughters’ softball teams. His coaching went well beyond sports, as he was always invested in helping others to recognize and to achieve their full potential. Mike really enjoyed playing softball, golfing, going to the track, in addition to playing cards and chess with his grandkids. He was a lifelong fan of both the Yankees and Mets, and was also a huge NY Giants fan. To relax, he was always eager to include family and friends, while boating on Summit Lake, where he spent his summers.

He was a loyal and loving husband, father, son, brother, pop pop, and friend and will be greatly missed.

He is survived by a dearly loved family: Sharon, his wife; two daughters Candace Bousman and Lauren Andreini (Kristian); his grandchildren Grace, Finn, William, and Henry; his siblings Patricia Fernet, Susan Clare, and John McDonnell (Tanya); niece, Brigid Clare; nephews, Bryan Fernet, Sean Fernet, Patrick Clare, Liam McDonnell, and Aidan McDonnell.

A Gathering will be held 10:00am -11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 10th with a Memorial Service to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, 1655 27th Street, Vero Beach, FL.

In remembrance of Mike, we will ask that you share a fond memory of yourself with him. There will be a memory box available at the service. In keeping with the spirit of such a kind and generous man, we ask that in lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.