Michael Finnegan

Michael John Finnegan, 58, of Cape Girardeau, formerly of Skaneateles, New York, passed away Sunday, July 6, 2014, in Cape Girardeau, surrounded by his children.

He was born Sept. 15, 1955, in Utica, New York, to Eugene and the late Virginia "Gussie" Finnegan. He and Annie Frye Finnegan were married in 1996 in Cape Girardeau.

Michael was a beloved father, uncle, son, brother and friend, and will be missed by so many.

He graduated from Skaneateles High School in 1973. He received a bachelor of science degree in chemistry, polymer science from State University of New York College of Environment Science and Forestry in 1978. He also graduated from Ohio State University.

Michael was distinguished in his profession as a polymer scientist. In 2007 two of his inventions were issued patents United States 7,189,666 and United States 7,160,939.

When Michael was not working he enjoyed spending time with his children, coaching soccer, reading and entertaining. Michael was a big Dave Matthews fan and his favorite quote was, "Life is short but sweet for certain." -- DMB.

Survivors include his father, Eugene Finnegan of Skaneateles; four children, William Michael Finnegan of Columbus, Ohio, Jordan Lowry, Layne Finnegan and Holly Finnegan, all of Cape Girardeau; three brothers, Thomas Finnegan of Rochester, New York, Robert (Kathie) Finnegan of Uxbridge, Massachusetts, and Paul Finnegan of Chattanooga, Tennessee; four sisters, Mary Hoare of Liverpool, New York, Carol (Bob) Ciullo of Hamilton, Virginia, Laura (Ryan) Fannon of Alexandria, Virginia, and Sharon (George) Azzam of Skaneateles; and 19 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded by his mother, the late Virginia "Gussie" Finnegan in 2002.

In lieu of flowers, the family has set up a trust for Michael's children, called the Michael J. Finnegan Children's Trust, c/o Anne Finnegan, trustee, 1521 N. Henderson Ave., Cape Girardeau, MO 63701.

Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Monday at St. Mary's of the Lake, 81 Jordan St., Skaneateles.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be shared at fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.