Michael Arthur Delaney August 2, 1936 – March 2, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Arthur Delaney, age 88, of Newport Coast, CA. Michael passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 2, 2025, with his family by his side.

Born on August 2, 1936, in Long Beach, CA, Michael was the son of Helen and Louis Arthur “Bud” Delaney. He lived in Long Beach for 62 years before settling in Newport Coast, where he spent the last 26 years of his life. From a young age, Michael embraced the values of hard work and family, which remained a cornerstone throughout his life. In 1958, he married the love of his life, Mary Lou Anderson, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, family, friends, and adventure.

Michael and Mary Lou raised three sons: Tim (Kathy), Dennis (Suzanne), and Patrick (Kim), who blessed them with eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Michael's life was dedicated to his family, and his pride in them was immeasurable.

In business, Michael was a visionary. Alongside his lifelong business partner, Armen Hampar, they purchased a small, struggling lubricant business. Together, they overcame challenges such as a devastating fire and the oil embargo of the 1970s, eventually transforming the company into the largest independent oil and grease producer in the United States.

In addition to his entrepreneurial spirit, Michael had a passion for trading stocks. He enjoyed the challenge and excitement of the markets, making it a hobby he pursued with enthusiasm throughout his life.

Michael’s professional success allowed him to pursue a variety of passions, including travel, boating, tennis, golf, woodworking, and a special talent for making soup. While much of his travel was business-related, he cherished the times he spent exploring with family and friends. Later in life, he enjoyed his cabin in Lake Arrowhead and his home in Newport Coast, where he could gaze out over the Pacific Ocean.

Michael is survived by his wife of 66 years, Mary Lou, his sister Andrea (Darin), and sons Dennis and Patrick. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren Jeffrey, Anastasia (Lopes), Michael, Lindsey (Butler), Joseph, Marley (Sweeting), and Lauren, as well as his great-grandchildren.

Michael was preceded in death by his beloved son Timothy, his daughter-in-law Kathy, and his grandson Zachary. Though they are gone, their memories will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew them.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider making a donation to the Orange County Rescue Mission in his memory found under the GIVE tab. 

A service celebrating Michael’s life will be held on April 24, 2025, at 4:00 PM at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church, Newport Beach. Reception to follow.  Please go to the EVENTS tab to RSVP and for more details. 

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