Michael James Minahan, age 58, of Wooster, entered into rest on Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at his residence due to health issues that suddenly overtook him.
Born January 27, 1963 in Hollywood, California, Mike grew up with a brother in the greater Whittier, CA area. Mike was convivial from the beginning. He attended public schools in the area, befriending people of diverse backgrounds. Mike looked forward to holiday visits by grandparents, aunts and uncles, and cousins in those early years. Family and early friends appreciated his convivial presence, an enduring temperament. He was gregarious, although he appreciated spending time alone to read and write. Throughout his life, Mike was an active swimmer and golfer.
Encountering challenges of modern life, Mike found solace in his identification as a Minahan, the name of his mother’s Irish forbears with which he replaced his birth name of Jackson. He took an interest in psychology and in client-centered counseling, obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Counseling at California State University, Fullerton, and worked as a substitute teacher. At La Verne University, he did graduate work in Counseling. He moved to Hemet, CA, and then to Wooster, OH, joining his mother and stepfather, who enjoyed an extensive family in the area. He soon became a fan of the College of Wooster and Cleveland Sports teams. He was an active member of NAMI of Wayne and Holmes Counties. Mike was content in small town life during his final six years in Wooster.
Mike was always eager to share his affection for popular music and sports, particularly football and baseball, becoming a serious, amateur sports statistician. A former umpire for an adult softball league, he described the game as the truly American sport, a sport in which everyone had a chance to go to bat and teamwork was critical.
Michael J. Minahan is survived by his mother, Nancee (Schaaf) Kearney and stepfather Daniel Kearney of Wooster, OH; his father, Russell Jackson of Whittier, CA., brother Paul Jackson of Fresno, CA., and a host of extended family and friends. Mike will always be missed by all who knew him. He lived a challenging life graciously.
Private services will take place at a later date at the convenience of the family. Custer-Glenn Funeral Home in Wooster is honored with serving the family.
Words of private or public condolences may be shared with the family at: www.custerglenn.com.
Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to: NAMI, 2525 Back Orrville Rd., Wooster, Ohio 44691.