John Michael

Mesquite, NV John Michael 71, passed away Thursday, March 31, 2022, in Mesquite NV. 

John was born in Fall River, Massachusetts on September 9, 1950. He was predeceased by his father, John Michael, who owned Michael's Coney Island Hot Weiners on Brightman Street in Fall River, and his mother, Stella (Gallagher). When the business was open, John was always with his father helping out with the hot dog shop.  He graduated from BMC Durfee High School in June 1968. He married Diane Autote on September 9, 1972, in Fall River. John and Diane were able to enjoy many adventures and travel across the country, and the world, in their nearly 50 years married. 

He spent much of his childhood at the Weetamoe Yacht Club, where his love for the water and boating grew. After graduating high school, he worked at US Records, Tillotson and Pearson, Beetle Plastics, and Bee Fiberglass. He was a Co-Founder of Mass Transfer systems in 1984, and in 1990, partnered in the Borden Light Marina. He enjoyed traveling to cruise nights and car shows in his 1969 Barracuda and his 2007 C6 Corvette, both in Massachusetts and Nevada. He enjoyed the company of car enthusiasts such as the Over The Hill Gang car club in Nevada, and Bay State Street Machines in Massachusetts. Other passions of his were duck, turkey, and pheasant hunting with friends; he was also an avid stamp and coin collector. In Fall River, he loved going to eat at the Liberal Club. When in Mesquite, he loved going to play blackjack in the casinos with his friends. 

John is survived by his wife Diane, daughter Angela Tiebout, son-in-law Ryan, grandaughter Aimee, and granddog Josie. John would tell anyone that would listen how proud he was of Aimee and her swimming accomplishments; he was her biggest fan. John also leaves his brother-in-law and sister-in-law Paul and Joyce Autote, and his nephews, nieces, and cousins. He will be missed dearly by his many friends in Massachusetts and Nevada. 

The family would especially like to thank the Mesquite Police and Fire & Rescue for their incredible response and compassion. Per his request, there will be no service. John’s favorite charity was the Marine Toys for Tots.  Please consider making a donation in his name.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory in their Guest Book at www.virginvalleymortuary.com.

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