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Michael Walsh Obituary

Michael Kerry Walsh, 76, of Burke, VA died in his home on December 29, 2023.

Michael was born in Kenmore, NY in 1947 to Thomas and Amy Walsh. He studied Liberal Arts at Hobart & William Smith College. Upon graduating he took a position working at the Harvard Library until he received an opportunity to study at Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar. When he returned, he obtained a graduate degree in Library Sciences from the University at Buffalo before accepting a position overseeing foreign acquisitions at the Library of Congress, where he worked for over 30 years.

Michael lived a private life but took pleasure in the entertainment of friends with many lively conversations over good food and drink. He loved his cats - Juno, Rocco, and Frodo - and enjoyed gardening, often a familiar sight in his straw hat as he looked after the trees and plants he helped to cultivate around his condominium. He had a passion for Native American art and surrounded himself with books. He viewed life with a sense of humor, was always quick to lend a hand, and believed in making the world a more beautiful place through art, literature, gardening, and devotion to family and friends.

Michael was preceded in death by his mother, father, and brother, Stephen, and is survived by his three sisters, Sally, Eileen, and Mary, and their families, and his godson, Stephen. Services will be private, with arrangements pending.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Feb. 11, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
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4 Entries

Russell Marr

February 14, 2025

Those periodic lunches both at work and into retirement were always filled with funny anecdotes, humor and interesting discussions about the Library where we worked together. I miss the laughter and still have some of the Dickle whiskey that you so enjoyed! I also miss all the HOA discussions and landscaping tips you shared with me.

Sue and Jim Bednarek

February 24, 2024

Jim and I always looked forward to, and enjoyed seeing Michael, donning his straw hat, at the Zaehringer family reunions every third Sunday in July.

I envision the Walsh / Zaehringer welcoming committee ushering Michael in with open arms and a Utica Club.

We are so very sad to hear of the passing of our beloved friend, who was more like a family member. May he rest peacefully, and may your fondest memories of him bring you comfort.

Ellen Zaehringer and Jay Anthony Gach

February 24, 2024

Dear Sally, Eileen, Mary and the Walsh family,

I'm offering my condolences to you all. As my family and I mourn the loss of Michael, my dear life-long friend, I'm also wanting you to know that we recently lost our brother, John, to whom Michael was also a dear and faithful friend. I hope they two will find each other...

Holding close cherished memories of times long ago in childhood, the more recent occasions when Michael joined the Zaehringer family summer reunions hosted by John and Pat in North Java, and of enjoying many warm and interesting conversations with him over the years.

I will save this year's Christmas card.

In sympathy,
Ellen

Bill and Marcy Zaehringer

February 23, 2024

We are so very sad for your loss.
Bill and Marcy Zaehringer

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