I am so sorry to hear about Michael. I just found out. I went to high school with Kathy. She was my best friend. We lost touch throughtout the years. I am shocked. May God be with him and his family in such a time of sorrow.
With Deepest Sympathy.

He was the reason for my passion of history, and a great teacher at Edgewood.
P.S. dont fall asleep in his class he may get his sword out!-Cliffe

Mr. McAvoy was my history teacher at Edgewood High School 1977 and 1978. He made a difference in my life. Our talks after school. My visits after I left. It's a shock to me. There will never be another like him. I wanted my two boys to meet him, but never had the time to make the trip. I will miss him.

My life will never be the same without my big brother. Lori Lease

I am very sorry to hear of Mr. McAvoy's passing.  My husband and I both had Mr. McAvoy for History at Edgewood High School in the late 70's.  I really enjoyed  his classes and learned alot. I feel that I have lost a friend.

I was lucky enough to have Mr. McAvoy as my world history teacher my sophomore year at Bel Air. I had no idea he would be retiring that year, and when I returned after summer, I was deeply saddened that he had retired. There was a lot I wanted to share with him, to follow up conversations we had the previous school year. The first time I met him was when I had detention my freshman year. I had been sitting there for a mere 30 minutes doing my homework when he told me to go home because I was being a "well-behaved, nice young lady". McAvoy always made me feel important and he actually started my deep interest in Germany during WWII. There are far too many wonderful memories of him to type up. One day, at the end of my world history class, he told us to grab a cap from the tea he always drank from this big cardboard box. I was surprised when I read mine. I still have it with me, and it says: "Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out. -John Wooden". Mr. McAvoy was an incredible man and I learned more about life than I ever did world history in his class. Rest in peace.

mcavoy was one of the few things i would return to highschool for. i literally talked to him everyday. he knew me better than any other teacher ever even tried to know me. he was a brilliant man with more life experiance and wisdom than you could shake a stick at. even a big damn stick. he was one of the last teachers to really care for and about each and every student. it saddens me deeply to know nobody will ever have the pleasure of having a conversation with this man again. the world is truly a lesser place without you. rest in peace mr. mcavoy, have fun talking to teddy up there in heaven.

Mr. McAvoy was a good teacher and person with a big heart. He was my US History teacher in the 70s at EHS. I still remember when he shot off his black powder musket in class. What a guy.  He served as a groomsman at my brother's wedding - he always went above and beyond. I remember him staying late after school a lot and always being glad to talk. He was quirky in a good way and made being at EHS a better experience.  By all the entries in this guestbook you can see that nice guys, humble guys, sincere guys, caring guys can finish first. A man rich in family and friends.  I'm sad for his family and our community but what a legacy.

Mr. McAvoy was my AP European History teacher during my sophomore year at Bel Air High School. Upon leaving his class, he gave each of a glass marble and told us to take them to college.  He told us when we were feeling defeated and as if we had lost our marbles, we could hold this one and know we still had at least one left.  I still hold onto that gift and I am now a senior in college.  I am constantly being reminded of lessons he taught me while I was in his class.  His passing is a major loss to the Bel Air High School community and I find myself fortunate to have had the chance to learn from him.

My family and I wish to express our condolences to his family.  As a student of his, he strengthened my love of history and learning through his teaching and playing of historical simulations of various time periods.  On my graduation yearbook, he wrote "may all your campaigns be successful".  His "campaign" of educating helped to instill in me a continued desired to learn. Thank you and God bless you.

To the family of Mr. McAvoy: Even though it's been 29 years since I graduated from EHS, I've never forgotten Mr. McAvoy, who was my Government teacher during my senior year. He had a wonderful way of making his subjects interesting to learn and easy to understand. He was always able to teach his lessons without ever having to berate or belittle his students, and he made his class an enjoyable one, instead of one to dread. He was a real blessing to those that were fortunate to be in his class, and I am so grateful that I had him as my teacher. He had a real passion for teaching, and he genuinely cared for his students. He will truly be missed by all who knew him, and I am so sorry for your loss. You all are in my thoughts and prayers at this time.

I am so saddened to hear about the passing of Mike. We shared the field of battle many times  as co-commanders. He was always great to work with. I will miss him.

Mr. McAvoy was my World History teacher at EHS and I served as one of his student aides in my Sr. year.

I will never forget walking into the classroom to see him in full Highlander regalia, complete with musket.

My prayers are with his family.  Godspeed, Mr. M.

I just learned of Mike's passing today, too late to attend his viewing and funeral.  Neil and I were priviledged to be next-door neighbors to Mike and Kathy for 9 years.  Our children were inseparable.  My heart is saddened at the sudden loss of this loving husband, father and grandfather.  I understand the grief that is facing the McAvoy family.  My love and prayers are with you all.

May you rest in peace, sir. A fine educator. Your legacy will live on through your family, friends, and all others who came to know you.

My heart feels your loss.  I'm going to miss Mike, he was an enjoyable field commander.  10th Coy 1st BN 84th of Foot " New York group"

I have been anticipating our 40th Mount Reunion this coming June.  We will remember Mike when we gather to recall all what the Mount has meant to us these past 40th Years. We were both Business Administration Majors.

It can't possibly be twenty years since I first sat across the lunch table from Mike and the other history curmudgeons in the Edgewood faculty lounge, can it? Or eighteen years since he and I stood in the snow at Ft. Ward, going over for the umpteenth time the drill and firing commands? I will forever remember him pointing out, sabre in hand, where the colonial ne'er-do-wells were hiding around the corner of the building in Germantown, PA, smoke thick around him.  It was, at that moment, possible to believe that we were really there. Every moment with Mike was like that--not just living history, but alive, as if he'd willed it to be real. Mike played the part of the officer perfectly--looking after his men first; first on, last off the field. Certainly he was playing a part, but the sentiment, the concern, was real. There just aren't many men like Mike McAvoy, and I count myself fortunate to have known him and called him a friend.  My family and I express our deepest sympathy to Mike's family and wish to thank you for sharing this decent and good man with us.

I paused a good long time before writing this. There are so many things to say; my condolences to Mike's family, the shock of the phone call saying he had passed away, the absence felt at the Alexandria Parade on Saturday. I read through each entry and have to say I will miss his stories, of which there were an endless number, and his adventures the most. I only knew Mike for two and half years from reenacting and can only wish I had known him longer. My wife, Rachael, recounted an event where Mike, dressed in his officer's uniform, was laying on his back on the ground playing with our pug puppy. He was like that. To Mike, who will never really be gone from us, we drank a dram to ye and wished ye well, lad. We also shared your one beer. God Save the King - take them off half-cock.

So sad to hear about Mr. McAvoy's passing, he was a wonderful teacher and made learning at EHS so much more fun, my prayers go out to his family, he truly will be missed.

I had the honor of experiencing Mr. McAvoy's AP European History class when he was at EHS.  He was so passionate about what he taught and that passion was contagious.  I am truly sorry for your loss.
My deepest condolences,
Jackie (Kinsey)Tufnell

I first met Mike McAvoy on the campaign trail when I was running for Harford County Executive. He quizzed me on the issues, (like I'm sure he did with his many students). In the end we formed a friendship that transcended politics. We shared a love of history. We also shared many rides together on our motorcycles. Like others I am saddended to learn of Mike's passing. Debbie's and my thoughts and prayers go out Kathy and the family. He was a very fine man, we should all strive to be like in our life.

Mr. McAvoy was one of my daughter's favorite teachers. He always had time to talk to her about her life endeavors. He even took the time to attend her graduation party, which we all felt was an honor. Please accept our deepest sympathy.

I was truly saddened to hear about Mr. McAvoy passing.  He was a great teacher and I really enjoyed him back when I was I was in High School.  My prayers go out to the family.

To Mike's family, I am so sorry for your loss.  I knew Mike through the 84th Royal Highland Regiment, and it was always a great honor and pleasure to take the field with him.  Mike was one of the finest people I have known, and he will be missed more than words can say.

I am both deeply saddened and shocked to hear about Mike's passing.  Our hearts and prayers go out to his family for their lost is our lost.  He will be deeply missed by all us in the RevWar Reenacting community. We have lost a Brother in Arms.
Sincerely 
Gregory Fisher
His Majesties  17th Light Dragoons.

I and the members of the 1812 Royal Marines wish to express their sincerest condolences for your loss.  Mike and I go back in friendship for over 30 years; I was his first NCO in his re-enacting career. Though years ago we parted for different eras, we would run into each other at various events and there was always a cheerful smile, a glad greeting and a warm conversation.  I will sincerely miss him and extend our sympathies and our thanks to Kathy and Mike's family for allowing him to be a part of our world.

What a shock to hear about Mike's passing!  We only met Mike once at an 18th century event in Fort George, Canada but we quickly grew to like him and his obvious passion for history and life in general.  We're sad that there will never be another opportunity to march under his command.

Bram Blenk
84th Reg't - 1st Bat'n
Ottawa, ON.
Canada

I had the honor of serving alongside of Mike for several years and then the pleasure of  harassing him from the other side for several more.  I will miss the verbal jousting across the battlefield with my friend.  Please know Mike was a fine man and friend, and will be missed.

Jim Stinson
Proctor's Artillery Coy.'

Mike and I have served together in the re-enacting communtity for many,many years. I was blessed to have called him a good friend. Mike always made time to talk to you and was always willing to educate anyone about history. The Rev War period will not be the same. Mike will be missed, but not forgotten. My deepest sympathy to Kathy and Mike's family.

The 93rd Sutherland Highlanders send their sincerest condolences to the family of this dear fellow. We knew Michael from the living history and reenacting events we attended. Michael was a keen fellow, well known and the loss of this splendid gentleman will take some time to get used to.

Mr. McAvoy possesses a level of wisdom unparalleled by other members of academia. He will be remembered as a great teacher and person. To his family: His legacy is secure. Your father/brother/husband/grandfather is one of the most witty individuals it has been my pleasure to know. He will be with you always :)

"To Mike's family, I send my deepest sympathy for your loss. Mike was a great colleague with whom I had the privilege of working and getting to know over the years at Bel Air High School. His wit, love of Mt. St. Mary's, passion for teaching and his students, and most importantly, his family, always brought joy to him. Mike and I shared many a story about our Catholic upbringing.  I will forever hold dear his expression "peachy keen" each time I had asked him how he was doing. Mike's sudden passing is a loss to the entire Bel Air High School staff & community."

I will always remember Mr. McAvoy with fondness. I was teaching at Bel Air on 9/11 and I watched the towers fall in the library with him. I had tears in my eyes and turned to him and asked him "What does this mean?" We shared a moment that day which I will remember forever. He was very encouraging to me as a new teacher. I respected his vast knowledge and passion for his subject. He is a teacher to be admired.

I am sorry to hear of your loss.  I was blessed to have Mr. McAvoy for AP European History back in the early 90's at EHS. He made history come alive for us....arriving for class a few times in his kilt! He always had our attention! What a spirited man!  I know that he is in a better place!
Heather(Besnoska) Konschak, Class of 1994

Though it has been almost 15 years since I sat in his class, I will never forget Mr. McAvoy playing Enya while we took a test, or the way he point out the 11th commandment, which was posted in the center of his classroom ceiling.  He made learning world history fun and is one of the reasons I decided to teach.  Lifting the McAvoy family in prayer during this difficult time.

Mike was a person one could easily respect. He was generous and supportive. It was always a joy to spend time with him, and have him and the 84th in our afternoon battles at Southern Maryland. His leaving is a great loss to his family, students, and the reenacting community, which shows his true significance to us.

We are so sorry for your loss.  We have known Mike for many years as members of the Michigan 84th and he will truely be missed.  Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Randy & Beth Rudecki-Austinburg, OH

We are so sorry for your loss.  Mike was a teacher, a gentleman and a scholar.    He was one of my son James'  favorite teachers; a respected and admired colleague of my daughter Becky and me. He will be missed by many who grew to love him. May God be with you at this difficult time.

I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Mike's passing. He was one of the first US re-enactors that I got to know, after meeting him at an event in Wyoming PA in 1989 on my first trip across the Pond.
Our friendship was, of necessity, a long-distance one but I was fortunate enough to have met Mike on a number of occasions over the years, both at British Brigade events and on visits to Gettysburg, Aberdeen Proving Ground, etc.
Mike was a good friend and I know how proud he was of his family, his students and his country. For me, he exemplified all that is good about America and Americans. 
Sincere condolences to Kathy, Michell, Patrick and family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Very moved by this news - Mike was a model teacher and friend at Edgewood High School - it was an honor to know this man and enjoy his passion for history. Thoughts and prayers with the McAvoy family.

I was greatly saddened to hear of Mike's passing.  We worked together at Edgewood and at Bel Air.  He was a truly dedicated teacher and one of the finest gentlemen I have ever worked with.  He lit up when he talked about his children of whom he was very proud.  Mike treated everyone with deference and respect.  I will miss him.

Mike, or "Sir Michael" as I always called him, was a great guy.  I was the lead secretary at Bel Air HIgh School for 11 years and Mike and I spoke often about grandkids and other things.  He never missed an opportunity to just stop in my office and say "hi" and that he didn't need anything!  I am sincerely saddened by his passing and I wil keep him and his family in my prayers.

Rip mr mac, Class of 1989, Edgewood Sr High

   I was so sorry and surprised to learn of Mike's death.Surely,it was much before his time.It was my pleasure to teach with Mike across the hall at Edgewood High School for 16 years.He was a passionate and conscientious lover of history.He imparted that love and knowledge to thousnds of students over the years.He was a dedicated teacher.I fondly remember the many conversations we had over all those years.I am better for having known him as are his many students.Mike was a true gentleman and enjoyed the quiet dignity of a life of service.It is said that "no person is truly alone,whom we loved,who echo still within our thoughts,our words,our hearts."Mike touched many colleagues and so many students that he surely lives on in many ways.
     His loss is deeply felt.I mourn the loss of my friend.I would like to extend my condolences to all who loved him and to his loving family in this sad and difficult time.Peace be with you,Mike.

Mike was simply full of life, possessing boundless love for his family, an unswerving duty to teach, and a real passion for living history.  He led the 84th with zeal and with a unique charisma all his own.  We shared many "battles," and many laughs.  He never failed to take time to check in every week, and freely shared his wisdom, experience, and advice.  His loss is deeply felt, and I will cherish always my memories of Mike.

Mike was a great friend, wonderful father, and loving husband.  Our family will miss him.

I was pleased when "Iron Mike" joined us at Edgewood, as he was the only Mountie to come to EHS.  He was truly dedicated, and he always came to me with ideas and suggestions for interdisciplinary teaching.  We had a great staff at Edgewood, and Mike was a true leader.  His family was always first, but his students were a close second.  Look down on "Goldfinger," Mike, and rest in peace.

I did not know Michael.  I do know his sister, Lori and her family.  Lori talked a great deal about her wonderful brother and how loved he was by family, friends and students. I will not forget how he worked to save the life of his cat, and he did it with much love and care.  That takes a very special person in my book. I know how missed he will be and send my sincerest condolences to all his friends and family. A terrible loss.

    Sharon Schikner, Columbia, Maryland

I met Mike we were freshman at Mount St. Joe in 1964.  I will remember him as the fellow who always did the right thing.  We are all better because of his acts of kindness and courage.  Abbie and I will miss him.

Jim and Abbie Schaub

I am very sorry to hear about Mr. McAvoy's passing. I had him as my U.S. History teacher in my 11th grade year (98-99) and I have to say he was my favorite. His teaching method was lively, entertaining, and he made the subject interesting to bunches of kids who before thought it was 'boring'. He was a talented, wonderful teacher and will be greatly missed.

My condolences to his family.

Mr. McAvoy's stimulating and engaging teachings were instrumental in the development of the Berry children and hundreds more.  He was a family favorite who exhibited his passion for history in such an invigorating manner.  The Berry family is saddened by the news of his passing.  We are forever grateful for what he poured into the Berry children; Adam

My family and I extend our condolences to the McAvoy family during this difficult and sad time. 
I had Mr. McAvoy as a student at Edgewood High School and was welcomed by Mike a few years later as I joined him as a colleague at Bel Air High.  He was incredibly proud to be an educator and was equally proud of his family.  He was passionate in all that he did.  He has impacted thousands of lives in his 30+ years of service to Harford County Public Schools and thousands more as a proud citizen of the United States of America.  
Our prayers are with the family and friends and join them in mourning the loss of a true gentleman.

The members of the Governor William Paca Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, were saddened to hear of Mike's death.  Many of us knew him because he had been our chapter's Outstanding Teacher of American History two years before and had entertained us greatly at a meeting, appearing in his full uniform of the 84th Highlanders.  He was a very likable person and a friend of our chapter; we will miss him.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.
Emily Umbarger Andrews, Regent

Mike was a good man. A dedicated teacher who gave much to his students. His memory will live in everyone he touched. We wish peace to Kathy and the family.

The Driscolls

Mr. McAvoy had a passion for everything he was involved in. He made all conversations  genuinely interesting and easily comprehensive. His unique personality was an enriching part of many lives, one to hard to forget. I am greatful that I was blessed to know such a man of his integrity.

My humble condolence to those he loved and loved him in return.

I was extremely saddened of hearing the news of Mike's untimely passing.  He was a devoted educator who expressed in his teaching a true love of his community and country.  His beneficial and positive influence on the students and staff, especially the social studies department,will live on for years to come.

Family members have our deepest sympathy in this difficult and trying time.  I, as well as the social department of Bel Air High School, join you in mourning the loss of Mike.  Please know that our prayers and reflections are with you.

I taught history with Mike the entire time he was at Edgewood HS and I can honestly say he was among the most dedicated teachers I have known. He was a true professional as well as a gentleman's gentleman, a class act. I can see him now, when I asked him how Patrick and Michelle were doing, he would get excited to share with you their latest accomplishments; there never a more proud father. With fondest memories Mike, and while your life was too short; it was a life well lived.

I remember Mr. McAvoy's History classes well....amazing educator.  My deepest condolences to all that loved him. EHS class of 1985

I taught with Mike for many years. He was a devoted teacher who went way beyond the call of duty. I treasured his friendship and his character. He loved history and imparting it to his students. Public education in Harford County has suffered a great loss. 
                                       John Holzworth

My prayers are with the McAvoy family.  I had Mr. McAvoy for homeroom 3 years at BAHS.  He is missed by many.

Mike was my "neighbor" when I started at EHS.  He was a mentor to me.  I remember our discussions about teaching, history, and family.  These were the things he was most passionate about.  Kathy, Michelle, and Patrick meant everything to him and he was proud of their accomplishments.  While I am sad about Mike's passing, I will always remember him with a smile.

i'm deeply  saddened by Mr. McAvoy  passing.  i was blessed as many others were to have him  as teacher at EHS. my prayers go out to  his family and friends. a wonderful teacher will be greatly missed by so many.

                                             Michelle Morales Lycliter Steuer of Bel Air,MD

The Revolutionary War reenacting community will miss Mike greatly. I had some nice conversations with Mike at Fort Mifflin a few weeks ago and had the chance to have lunch with him that Saturday afternoon. Even though we often fought on opposite sides of the field, he always made time to say hello. The 5th Pennsylvania Regiment sends their regards to Mike's family.

Mike will be missed by all the lads of the 74th Highlanders. He was a great help to me in the past and a great man to be in ranks with. May God be with you all at this time.

We are so sorry to hear about Mike's passing. He was a gentleman, scholar and dear friend. Our prayers go out to his family.

Mike was a mentor and a friend.  He cared about his family, colleagues, and students.  He believed passionately in the importance of his work with students and about their accomplishments beyond the classroom.  In my first years of teaching at EHS, he always checked on me and we had many wonderful conversations about teaching, history, and the importance of family.  Kathy, Michelle, and Patrick were his pride and joy.  He loved all of you deeply.  While I am sad today at Mike's passing, I will remember him with fondness and happiness because of his approach to living.

I am deeply saddened to hear of Mike's passing. He was a consumate professional, friend, colleague, fellow teacher and reenactor. His death is a tremendous loss to our community. May he Rest In Peace and God Bless his family at this sad hour. He is now in a far better place than we.

We, the social studies department of Bel Air High School, were all extremely sorry and saddened of hearing the news of Mike's untimely passing.  He was a devoted educator who expressed in his teaching a true love of our community and country.  His beneficial influence on the students and staff will live on for many years.

You have our deepest sympathy in this difficult and trying time.  We join you in mourning the loss of Mike.  Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.

I will miss my nephew very much. We shared my good times together. Rest in peace as you left this better world. Your legacy are the students you are leaving behind.

Mr. McAvoy was the toughest teacher I've ever had. But, he was also the greatest. He had high expectations for every one of his students and believed that they could all achieve. He taught me to keep pushing even when situations seem hopeless. He was a shepherd who showed many the way to success and he will be greatly missed. Thank you for all the greatness you've brought into the world.

I am deeply saddened by the news of Mike's passing.  In the reenactment community he was one of my good friends and I will miss him.  

                                                                      Col. Mark K. Crosby
                                                                      Master Gunner
                                                                      British Brigade

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Mr. McAvoy's passing. I just spoke to him the week before Thanksgiving during intermission of a play at Bel Air High School. He had been my daughter's U.S. History teacher, and I told him how nice it was to see him back at school, supporting the students in the Bel Air Drama Company. He said he was enjoying the play, and that it was his first time back at school since his retirement. I know how much he enjoyed teaching and telling stories to his students, and it is so very sad that he is gone. I would like to express my sincerest condolences to the McAvoy family. Mr. McAvoy was a special person who had many interests, and took time for others. I am so very sorry for your loss; he is certainly gone much too soon. My family and I are praying for you all. May you find peace and comfort in your memories, and support and love from friends and family at this difficult time.   
Sincerely, Cindy Jackman and family

I have known Mike for many years, even before joining the 84th. He taught my daughter at BAHS and we spent many days in the 18th century. He will be missed and there is no other to take his place. May he command in Tir Na n'Og.

We were deeply saddened by the news of Mr. McAvoy's passing.  He was a fabulous teacher and our son thought the world of him.  Our sincere condolences to the family.

I am so sorry for your loss. Mr. McAvoy was one of my favorite teachers at Edgewood High School. Following graduation, I was blessed to call him my friend. He will be missed.

I was very surprised to hear about Mike's passing.  We became good friends when I taught at BAHS.  In recent years, we would catch up at the HCEA RA meetings.  He will be missed.  My sincere condolences to the family.

I am greatly saddened by Mike's passing.  He loved teaching history, and not just to his many young students, but to his older "students," like me, when we were enjoying one of our movie nights with friends and, as usually was the case, the movie involved history. He had a passion for teaching, for history, and above all else, for his wife Kathy, children and family. Some years ago I was  honored to be a "guest teacher" in his class to discuss the law. I witnessed first hand how much he enjoyed his students and the good relationship he had with them. He was fun to be with, but also serious about the things that were serious, in the community, in education and in the nation.
Rest in peace Major Mike. Your legacy is secure in the lives of your family and countless students.

J C Byrnes

OBITUARY

Michael Mike J. McAvoy

June 20, 1950 – December 2, 2011

Schimunek Funeral Home

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