Charles Michael Durishin

Charles Michael Durishin, age 78, of Arlington, VA passed away peacefully April 12, 2026 at Virginia Hospital Center. Born and raised in Memphis, TN, Mike was the only child of Joseph L. and Anna D. Durishin. He graduated from Birmingham Southern College in 1969 and went on to pursue a career in public service. Joining VISTA in 1970, Mike was assigned to work with communities in western South Dakota.

Upon completing his VISTA assignment, Mike joined the campaign staff of Rep. Jim Abourezk (SD) who was seeking a seat in the US Senate. There he met Jo Ann Gerhardt, his wife-to-be. Both joined the new Senator’s staff in Washington in 1973. Mike spent his entire career working on Capitol Hill, later working for Rep. Tom Daschle (SD), and spent most of his public service career with the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, retiring as staff director. He focused his energies on the Committee’s legislative efforts to improve veteran employment opportunities, education benefits, and to address the problem of homelessness among veterans.

Mike was quiet and unassuming, yet when he shared an opinion, it was worth hearing. He was a problem solver and a man of conviction. Integrity was his calling card. He was honest, caring, kind to all, and always a gentleman. Mike was a lifelong lover of golf and prior to his passing, enjoyed watching the first two rounds of the 2026 Masters where his two favorite golfers finished #1 and #2 in the Tournament.

Mike is survived by his wife of 53 years Jo Ann (Joey), son Michael (Ike), daughter-in-law Lauren, and two grandchildren, Roark and Darcy.

A celebration of life will be held this Spring and details will follow at a later date.