Michael John Gross

Michael John Gross, 60, of Northampton, MA passed away unexpectedly on April 25, 2023 at Baystate Medical Center due to a catastrophic brain hemorrhage. 

Born February 13, 1963 he was the son of Albion and Jeanette (O’Neil) Gross.  Mike was a graduate of Northampton High School class of 1981, where he was an active member of the school’s athletic programs.  Following high school, he served in the US Army from 1981-1987 as a combat engineer.  Mike “the Bone” then worked for 32 years with the Northampton Fire Department and retired in 2017.  He enjoyed his job to the fullest by working hard and joking around with his coworkers.  He loved serving the community. 

He had a larger-than-life personality, whose energy never failed to fill a room.  He was always looking to put smiles on peoples’ faces through his sense of humor and antics.  He was never shy about meeting anyone and was always the first person to lend a hand.  He would always have time for a relative, neighbor, friend or anyone in need. He had a wonderful quality of leaving things better than when he showed up.

He was an avid fisherman and golfer, who never missed an opportunity to have fun and to participate in tournaments and the Thirsty Thursday bowling league.  He relaxed on Rhode Island beach trips, around his bon fires and by watching the Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots and Celtics.

Michael is survived by his loving wife of 31 years Sara (Micka) Gross and their three children Kristin Alyssa Gross (Maya Kerstetter), Michael Samuel Gross and Sean Albion Gross.  He also leaves behind four siblings: Alan Gross, Sandra Gross, Thomas Gross (Lora) and James Gross (Sharon).  He leaves behind his mother-in-law Louise (McKemmie) Micka, brother and sister in-laws: Sylvia Smith (William), Margaret LaPalme (Robert), Stephen Micka (Claire Varelas) and Marilyn Pickunka (Thomas).  He leaves several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his parents Jeanette and Albion Gross and his father-in-law Samuel Micka.

Sara, Kristin, Mikey and Sean wish to thank everyone for their extremely generous outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed by his family, extended family, his dog Samson, his cat Bucky, his many friends, the Park Hill neighborhood and the large community of all who knew him.

Calling hours will be held Monday, May 1, 2023 from 4:00-7:00pm at Mitchell Funeral Home in Easthampton. Services will follow on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 at 10am at the Easthampton Congregational Church. Memorial contributions in Mike’s Memory can be made to Dakin Humane Society at https://www.dakinhumane.org/tribute-donation

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