Michael James Eldred, a resident of Lawrence and beloved husband of 39 years to Kathleen Anne (Metzemaekers) Eldred, died at the Lahey Clinic Medical Center in Burlington, following a lengthy illness on Friday evening, May 20, 2011. He was 61 years old.
Born in Lawrence on September 30, 1949, Mike was the son of George F. Eldred and the late Elynor S. (Somerset). Mr. Eldred was an avid drag racer, building and racing his own cars with his brother, Tim. He was a proud member of the NHRA and enjoyed country music and going camping in his RV. Mike was also a skilled craftsman, making many items out of wood such as cabinets, clock cases and sculptures. He also was a great artist and especially liked to draw “Mickey Mouse”. Above all, Mr. Eldred was a devoted husband, brother and uncle.
Besides his beloved wife, Kathleen, he will be sorely missed by his loving brother and best friend; Timothy G. and his wife Debra A. Eldred of Salem, New Hampshire, sister; Jo-Ellen Percival of West Newbury, nieces and nephews; Amy-Jo, Tim, Lisa, Karl, Meghan, Andrew, Matthew, Benjamin, Samantha, Patrick, Scott and Isabel. He was also the great-uncle of Jillian, Kaleigh and Rylan.
His funeral mass was celebrated in St. Patrick Church, Broadway, Lawrence on Tuesday, May 24, 2011, at 11 AM. Many relatives and friends were in attendance. Calling hours were held in the Burke-Magliozzi Funeral Home, 390 North Main Street, Andover, Monday, May 23, 2011, from 4 to 8 PM. Burial was held in St. Mary Immaculate Cemetery in Lawrence. Donations in Michael's memory may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 1701 N. Beauregard Street, Alexandria, VA 22311. For additional information, please visit, www.burkemagliozzi.com.