Michael J. Walshe

Michael J. Walshe, 88, of Gaithersburg, MD passed away peacefully on November 20, 2020, just five days after his 58th wedding anniversary to his beloved wife Pat. Born on May 7, 1932, to Daniel and Mary Walshe in County Tipperary, Ireland, Michael and his eight older siblings had a happy childhood on their family farm in the Glen of Aherlow where Michael always kept close ties. After earning a Bachelor of Agricultural Science from University College Dublin in 1954, he joined the Irish Department of Agriculture and ultimately led the team that established Moorepark Agricultural Research Station, becoming its first “officer in charge” in 1959. He met Patricia Buzzard of Amarillo Texas in 1961; married her the following year; and together they had five children. In 1971 Michael took up a position with the World Bank as its animal production specialist, and the family moved from Ireland to the United States. Michael’s job required extensive travel throughout the world, and he delighted in making friendships wherever he went. After retiring in 1994, he was better able to indulge his passions for history, economics, politics, and Gaelic sports. He loved nothing more than a party, the bigger the better, and lively discussion with friends and family. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Walshe; his children, Anna Haugh (Patrick) of Waldorf, MD, Sarah Walshe (Richard Canning) of Rockville, MD, Sinead Walshe of Frostburg, MD, and Sean Walshe of Perry Hall, MD; his seven grandchildren; and his sister, Teresa Walshe of Dublin, Ireland. Predeceased by his son, Donal K. Walshe (Stephanie Linder) of Kingsville, MD. Service arrangements will be announced at a later date.

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