Michael William Gilsenan Sr., retired bank VP

Michael William Gilsenan Sr. passed away peacefully Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2020, after a long illness.  

Raised in the Bronx, N.Y., Mike was predeceased by his parents, Elizabeth and Philip Gilsenan, and one sister, Betty Lane.  He was also predeceased by his first loving wife of 55 years, Elaine Gilsenan (nee Irvine).

Mike is survived by his loving wife Barbara; his brothers Phil and John, and sister Rose Bastedo; as well as his children Michael (Veronica), Brian (Karen), Kevin (Diane), Jill Mahoney (Tom), Sue Ann Platt (Richard), Damian (Maria) and Andrew (Marie); and his stepchildren Carolyn and Joseph Romspert.  He is also survived by his 15 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. 

As a U.S. Marine, Mike proudly served his country during the Korean conflict. 

While raising his family on Staten Island, N.Y., he was active in community affairs including serving as president of Tottenville High School Football Fathers’ Club and coach of SI Boys’ Football League.

Mike enjoyed a 30-year career with the Bank of New York, retiring as vice president of bank operations. 

After relocating to Lewes, Mike served as the treasurer of Oak Crest Farms’ first board of directors; he chaired several committees and served on the Board of Directors of the Cape Henlopen Elks Lodge 2540.  During his retirement, Mike enjoyed travelling worldwide and spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, Feb. 16, at Bedell Pizzo Funeral Home, 7447 Amboy Road, Staten Island; hours are from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m.   

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, Feb. 17, at 10 a.m., at Our Lady Help of Christians Church, 23 Summit St., Staten Island. 

Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service and celebration of Mike’s life at noon, Saturday, Feb. 22, at Cape Henlopen Elks Lodge 2540, 18544 Beaver Dam Road, Lewes. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Mike’s name to Make-A-Wish, Delaware Office, 100 W. 10th St., Suite 106, Wilmington, DE 19801.