Michael Sean Peter Conroy, (68) of Unadilla, New York, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 27th, 2024 in Binghamton, NY. Michael, fondly known as “Mike,” was born to Ambrose and Mary J. Conroy, on November 28th, 1955, in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended St. Anastasia School in Douglaston, NY, and graduated with the Class of 1969.
Growing up in Douglaston, NY, Michael was a talented track athlete, a faithful friend and loving brother. He prided himself on his Catholic faith, his family and his compassion for those in need. Throughout his life, Michael was a champion and fierce advocate for others becoming Assistant Administrator for the STOP-DWI Program of Otsego County, NY, held position on the Board of Directors for the Delaware County Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council and worked as a counselor for an employee assistance program in Oneonta, NY. This path led him to eventually becoming Assistant Director at New Direction, a private substance use disorder rehab in Walton, NY for twenty years. Michael became a well-known face and an integral part of the New Direction team. He dedicated most of his adult life to helping everyone who walked through its doors find sobriety. As a “jack of all trades,” he served as an intake/discharge coordinator, rehab counselor, maintained daily administrative duties and facilitated its continued growth. Michael was known to be an eloquent speaker, sharing his story of hope and inspiration to all. Many say this “magical place” and the people in it, specifically Michael and his steadfast support, have saved their lives. Thus, Michael’s legacy lives on in the hearts and spirits of all those who were greeted by his warm hand and cup of coffee.
Although Michael held many titles throughout his life, his favorite role was being a father. Michael provided unconditional love and unwavering support to his daughter, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories.
Preceding him in peace were his parents, Ambrose and Mary J. Conroy, his brother James Conroy and his sister Mary Anne Conroy. Michael is survived by his daughter, Michaela Conroy (James Nowak); his sister, Rachael Chiaramida and her three children; his brother, Patric Conroy (Kathleen Conroy) and their three children; his late sister, Mary Anne Conroy’s son, James Conroy; as well as seven grandnieces and grandnephews.
To honor Michael’s memory, viewing services will be held at Doyle B. Shaffer Funeral Home on Thursday, October 3rd, 2024, at 4:00-8:00pm and the funeral mass will take place at St. Anastasia Roman Catholic Church Friday, October 4th, 2024 at 9:45am with graveside services following the mass at Cavalry Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Friends of Recovery-New York in Michael’s memory:
Friends of Recovery-Dedicated To Others
22 Elm Street, Oneonta, NY 13820
Checks can be made out to: FOR-DO, Inc.