Michael Moon McAleer, born October 26, 1973, age 47, of Largo, Florida, died suddenly on August 25, 2021 of a massive heart attack while at work. He is survived by his mother, Mary Kathryne Ryan of Bloomington, Indiana; his father, Dr. James K. McAleer (Sandra Ann) of The Villages, Florida; and two brothers, J. Ryan McAleer (Lori) of Madeira, Ohio and Patrick K. McAleer (Rachael) of Bloomington, Indiana. He was the loving uncle of nephews, Xander and Brody, and the joyful nephew and cousin to his big, extended family of McAleers and Ryans. Mike is also survived by his birth mother, Jean Sallen O’Brien of Largo, Florida; in his adult life, Mike reached out to her, reconnected, and they began to build their relationship.

Throughout his formative years, Mike lived in Medina, Ohio, attending Sidney Fenn Elementary School, Western Reserve Academy, and graduating from Medina High School. He was an English major at Kent State University and then at Saint Michael's College in Colchester, Vermont.

Mike was an expert in the trades of plumbing, carpentry, landscaping, and construction management. He could fix anything—and fix it well. He was also intellectually gifted, intuitive, funny, and gracious. He was an artist, a reader, and a poet. With a smile and an attitude of “Don't let yesterday take up too much of today,” Mike persevered against overwhelming odds and obstacles that life presented to him. He was strong. And he was tough.

Loved by so many, Mike was caring and compassionate, a teacher and a doer. In the communities where he lived—Chapel Hill, Burlington, Snohomish, Bloomington—Mike made friendships and brightened the days of strangers.

He enjoyed the outdoors, especially swimming, snow skiing, and sailing. Even as a child, Mike took big risks with laughter, strength, and courage.

For the past few years, Mike was the project manager for a large condominium complex near St. Petersburg, Florida. At the time of his death, the grounds looked beautiful, the buildings well taken care of, and Mike’s tool shed, organized and air conditioned.

Mike was a son, brother, uncle, nephew, and cousin. He was loved. And he will be missed. Missed with sad hearts but remembered with love, memories, and stories.

Memorial services and celebrations of Mike’s life will be held in both Largo, Florida (date to be determined) and Bloomington, Indiana (November 6, 2021). Details forthcoming.

In Mike’s honor and memory, please consider a donation to Alcoholics Anonymous.

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