On January 29, 2018 Michael “Giz” Gisriel dear brother of Tracy Krug and husband Luis, Mary Henn, Rita Cole and husband Dennis, and Vincent Gisriel, Jr and wife Bonnie. Also survived by 15 nieces and nephews, 16 great nieces and nephews and many loving family and friends.
Friends may gather at The Johnson-Fosbrink Funeral Home, P.A., 8521 Loch Raven Blvd. (beltway exit 29-B) on Friday, February 2nd, from 1 to 2 P.M. at which time all are invited for a Celebration of Life service from 2 to 2:45 P.M. Inurnment private. In lieu of flowers donation may be made in his memory to Special Olympics Maryland, 3701 Commerce Dr., #103, Baltimore, MD 21227. Condolences may be sent to www.jfhmd.com
Where does one begin to summarize a person’s life? From the moment Giz came into our lives, he was a joy for his parents, Martha and Vincent Gisriel, Sr. His siblings adored him, so much so, that Vince Jr., Rita and Kitch almost knocked him out of his baby carriage trying to cuddle him. This happened outside a grocery store near Loch Raven Blvd and Joppa Road. We caught him mid-air as he began to tumble out. At the time, we were only nine, seven and six years of age.
Giz graduated from Atholton High School in Columbia, Maryland, where he was active in student government and student affairs. He was even appointed to the Howard County School Board as a student representative. Throughout his working years, Giz held different jobs. He was a D.J. for a while. He drove a taxi. Later, he became an institution at Jerry D’s Restaurant & Tavern, where he was a bartender for 26 years. He served with distinction in the Maryland Army National Guard for over 7 years, both as a company clerk and recruiter.
Giz was a simple man who went to work and did a good job. He had a strong work ethic and he was a loyal employee. However, more than his work history and career path, Giz connected with a lot of people in a very special way. Throughout his life he made friends with so many. We have lost count of the number of people who have a kind word about him. Perhaps, it was because he never seemed to judge anyone and he found the goodness in everyone he met.
Giz was an avid reader and he loved animals. He was also a devoted Orioles and Ravens fan.
In the end, it is not about how much money one had, or the great things one accomplishes, it is about how you have loved and treated others which means the most. Giz died a truly rich man for he gathered through his life so many good friends and family members who loved him so very much. We will all sorely miss him.