Obituary of Michael James McGuinn

Michael James McGuinn, 59, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on March 31, 2012 after a courageous battle with cancer. A Memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, April 10, 2012, 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 2746 5th Street in Castle Rock, with a private burial at a later date. On Monday, April 9, 2012, the family will receive visitors from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with the Rosary being prayed at 7:00 p.m. also at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Michael was raised in Richmond, Virginia, and graduated from the University of South Carolina in 1975. He remained an ardent Gamecocks fan all his life. He began a long career as a merchant in the men's apparel business at Ivy's in Charlotte, North Carolina, and then spent seven years at Macy's before taking a management position at Parisian's, headquartered in Birmingham, AL. He moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with his family in 1999 when he joined Sports Authority as General Merchandise Manager for Apparel. He was a key player in the retailer's expansion over the last decade and was seen as a bigger-than-life personality there and throughout the retail sporting goods and activewear apparel industry. While Michael was highly regarded for his merchandising skills, he was even more respected for his efforts to mentor business colleagues; and he helped advance the careers of many. He retired as SVP of Merchandising at Sports Authority in January of this year. Michael's love of life was infectious, and he brought joy to all who crossed his path. His best day was a day at the beach with his family; second best, attending any major sporting event with his family or other friends and colleagues. Michael is survived by his wife, Susan Cade McGuinn of Castle Rock, CO; his daughters Erin McGuinn Kinsey and husband David of Denver, CO; Alison Leigh McGuinn of Brookline, MA; son Christopher Bennett Hall and wife Megan of Warwick, RI; and three grandchildren, Grace Elizabeth and Charlotte Anne Hall and Cade Elise Kinsey. Son of the late James and Mary McGuinn, he is also survived by his sisters Marita McGuinn Armistad, Eileen McGuinn Patrick (David) and Mary Margaret Brodrick (Rick), all of Charlotte, NC. He was predeceased by his brother Kevin and his nephew Ryan McGuinn. In addition, he leaves numerous relatives who will always remember with love the many gifts he shared with them. In lieu of flowers the family has chosen to support Dr. Thomas Flaig's research into effective treatment for bladder cancer. Contributions honoring Michael may be sent to: CU Foundation 13001 East 17th Place mail stop F434 Aurora, CO 80045 Attn: Libby Printz Service Information