The world lost a bit of its color on April, 30, 2023 when Michael Giraud, a dearly loved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away as he had lived, surrounded by friends and family. Born in Ann Arbor, Mike lived and worked in this town throughout his life, where he enjoyed a life filled with love, laughter, healthy skepticism and commitment to making a difference in his community. Known amongst some locals as the unofficial mayor of Ann Arbor, he loved his home town - as long as you avoided the subject of traffic or certain ideas of the town planning commission.
While attending Eastern Michigan University, he began working at the Washtenaw County Juvenile Facility, where he honed his innate skills of empathy, sense of humor, generosity of attention, love and spirit, as well razor sharp wit, helping troubled youth. He made a positive impact on many lives during that time, on the kids as well as the staff. Many of those positive impacts he wouldn’t see until years later, when recognized on the street, in a restaurant or coffee shop by someone whose life he had affected for the better.
In the eighties, Mike transitioned into the realm of commercial real estate, where he deftly applied his unique blend of talents to serve his beloved community. His exceptional skills were not only recognized but deeply appreciated by his clients and the local community alike. Amidst various career ventures, he discovered his true home at Swisher Commercial, where he remained until his passing. Despite missing the direct interaction with children, he remained dedicated to supporting at-risk youth and adults. He served as a valued board member of C.O.P.E. (Center for Occupational and Personalized Education) and volunteered his time with Michigan Adaptive Sports, both pivotal non-profits in the community.
While Mike loved his work, he had so many more interests. Music was a major part of his life. He could often be found singing along to the radio at home and in his car, though he couldn’t carry a tune, and could never get the lyrics right. He enjoyed a wide variety of artists and loved seeing them at local venues - he rarely missed a Sonic Lunch. If you have a chance to attend a concert at the Ark, and sit close to seat D5, listen closely and you may just hear Mike mutilating the lyrics of the performers in his off tune way.
He also relished traveling the world with his wife Heidi, especially to tropical climes on the ocean. He loved sailing, swimming, paddle boarding, snorkeling - pretty much anything in or on the water. He often joked that he wanted to be Jack Johnson, live on the North Shore, swim, surf, BBQ shrimp and make a living playing guitar. Though the only thing he could do from that list was BBQ shrimp.
Mike’s true passion though, was spending time with his family and friends. Known amongst them as the Grill Master, one of his favorite things was grilling his World Famous Lamb Chops on the back deck while surrounded by those he loved. Mike’s group of friends were deeply important to him, his chosen family, who loved and supported him throughout his adult life.
Mike had an enormous heart and a genuine kindness that touched the lives of all who knew him. He was kind, generous, funny, and loving. He was a true listener, always making others feel seen and heard. Though he may no longer be with us, his spirit will live on in the memories and hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Mike leaves behind the love of his life and partner in crime, Heidi Purcell; his pride and joys, the Truesdells - daughter Sam, son in law JP, and grandson Abbott; Bruno - the only cat he ever loved; and Bunji the dog, his parting gift to Heidi.
Mike’s memorial will be held Thursday, May 16, 2024 from 4:30pm until 7:30pm at HOMES Campus, 112 Jackson Plaza, Ann Arbor. Speakers will begin at 5:30pm.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the following charities. Michigan Center for Youth Justice (www.miyouthjustice.org), Michigan Adaptive Sports (www.michiganadaptivesports.com), or Washtenaw My Brother’s Keeper (www.washtenawmbk.org).
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