Michael Julius Foley

Michael Julius Foley passed away Saturday, October 12, 2024 with his loving wife Michele by his side. Michael was born October 8, 1942 in Penns Grove New Jersey to Joseph Patrick Foley and Mildred Louise Cobb. He enjoyed an idyllic childhood with his older sister Patricia and younger brothers Kevin and Christopher, and younger sisters Elizabeth and Louise. Michael graduated from St. James High School and Ohio University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering and a Master’s of Science, the first awarded in Enviromental Engineering in Ohio. He specialized in Water and Wastewater Treatment, and was one of the first three Environmental engineers in the state of Ohio. Many of the water towers in Butler County were designed and built by Michael, testament to his professional expertise.

 Michael married the love of his life, Michele Jeanne Stockwell, in 1964, after being introduced to each other by their mothers after Mass. Michael and Michele celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with family and friends in September, receiving a special blessing over their marriage during Mass.

 Michael was preceded in death by his parents and sister Patricia Foley McQueeny, and is survived by his beloved wife Michele, daughter Penelope and son-in-law Paul Khuri, son Sean Foley, and grandchildren Gregory and Helena Khuri; sisters Elizabeth (Steve), Louise, brothers Kevin (Judy) and Christoper (Janet), and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and godchildren.

 Michael was the most loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He adored and was adored by his wife, children and grandchildren, and was the best friend and neighbor a person could have. In his later years, he cared for several dear friends through the end of their lives, in particular Paul Eshbaugh and Dr. Howard Swonigan. Michael was also the “adopted” father, grandfather and mentor to so many through his faith community at St. Luke’s and throughout his career. Michael had many babies named after him, which he considered a deep honor. He also deeply appreciated the friendships of his neighbors, who kindly looked after him and Michele in his last year of life.

 Michael was a true Renaissance man. He had a deep love for classical music, and rekindled his piano lessons as an adult, becoming proficient at piano, harpsichord and other keyboard instruments. He also studied voice, and became an amateur classic singer, performing with the Dayton Philharmonic Symphony Chorus, Chamber Choir (28 years) and Opera Chorus, the Cincinnati May Festival Chorus (3 years) the Springfield Symphony Chorus, Sulfur Grove Methodist Church Handel’s Messiah, and the St. Luke’s Parish choir for over 46 years. He was an avid reader, and reached his goal of reading all of Charles Dickens’ publications in an early edition collection which he inherited from his father. Michael enjoyed crossword puzzles and dearly loved puns, often texting jokes to friends and family whenever he could, a lovely reminder that he was always thinking of them. 

 Michael and Michele enjoyed traveling around the world, as well as visiting many State and National Parks throughout the US. He had a deep love for the natural world, and spent countless hours on his beautiful patio birdwatching, as well as biking, hiking, and caring for the natural habitat. His professional life in turn reflected his beliefs in conservation, clean water, and leaving the world a better place. 

Michael always did what was right, even if it meant having to say hard things. He was honorable, humble, practical, steady, and compassionate. He always cheered his children and grandchildren on, and loved visiting with friends and their kids at coffee and donuts after Mass. His humble spirituality and steadfast faith were inspirational, and he always looked on the bright side, even when his body failed him. He never gave up.

Michael was a Marianist Affiliate, reflecting his deep love for the Blessed Virgin Mary. In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Marianist Society or the Marian Library (specify Creche Collection) at the University of Dayton, where Michael was a volunteer curator for the Crèche Collection for 17 years. You may go the following link to donate online: (University of Dayton Donate) select “Other” and specify donations be made to “Marian LIbrary for the upkeep of the Crèche Collection” in Michael’s memory.

Public visitation to be held at St. Luke's Catholic Church (1440 N. Fairfield Rd.) on Saturday October 26, 2024 at 9:30 am with Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 10:30 am.  Michael will be laid to rest at Woodland Cemetery in Dayton.