Michael "Mike" John Flaherty

Michael “Mike” John Flaherty, age 64, of Grants Pass, died Saturday, December 12, 2009 at Rogue Valley Medical Center.

A viewing will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Thursday, December 17, 2009 at Hull & Hull Funeral Directors.

A graveside service will begin at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, December 17, 2009 at Granite Hill Cemetery with Father William Holtzinger officiating.

Mike was born September 29, 1945 in Sacramento, California to Lillian & Patrick Duffy. He attended school up until the 11th grade and later completed his GED. He was adopted by his mother’s second husband, Leonard T. Flaherty and took his last name. In 1972 he moved to Grants Pass and made Oregon his home. Most of his work history was as a cook at various restaurants and he spent many years as a locksmith at the Key Man. After his retirement as a locksmith, he worked with his then wife and their longtime best friend, Rufus “Jay” Whitaker, raising exotic animals, cats and dogs. In 2005 his wife and he divorced but remained good friends until her death in 2007.

He was an active member of A.B.A.T.E. and was their chaplain and volunteered for the toy run.

His hobbies included riding his Harley Davidson, A.B.A.T.E. functions, watching television, and spending time in the outdoors.

Survivors include four children, Judith “Judi” L. Flaherty of Grants Pass, Oregon, Michelle C. Flaherty of Merced, California, Michael J. Flaherty Jr of Coos Bay, Oregon; and Mary L. Edwards of Grants Pass, Oregon; a brother, Patrick Duffy Jr of Salt Lake City, Utah; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his former wife, Sandra J. Whitaker; his mother, Lillian A. Flaherty; his father, Leonard T. Flaherty; and a great-grandson, Brody J. Clark.