Michael Joseph Gravino

Michael J. Gravino, 62, of Spokane, WA died Monday, May 13, 2019, while tending to the nature-filled retreat he loved and called home. Mike was born in Kansas City, MO, and he left us before we were ready. He was a generous, compassionate, humble and loving son to Maureen & Joseph Gravino and is survived by brothers & sisters: Patrice S. Gravino, Laure J. O’Keeffe (Timothy), Philip J. Gravino, Joseph P. Gravino, Jr (Jodie), Marianne Gravino-Castro (Mario) and 10 nieces and nephews. He was preceded by our sister Christina M. Rogers (Dan). He took great care and joy in selecting and sending cards to all of us on major holidays, birthdays, anniversaries and graduations.

Mike was a proud graduate of Rockhurst High School, Kansas City, MO, where he embraced the Ignatian Men for Others philosophy that would be a hallmark of his life. He later attended Regis College, Denver, CO; and Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA. He left a legacy through establishment at Rockhurst High School of the Phil & Mary Gravino Scholarship and the Mabel Batchel Scholarship and thru collective establishment with his siblings of the Joseph & Maureen Gravino Scholarship.

Mike will be remembered for the influence he had on the lives he touched, both professionally and personally. No matter where his work took him, neighbors and coworkers became family, and he showered them with his charitable spirit and mischievous smile. He is sorely missed by his coworkers at Alliance Machine Systems Intl, LLC, Spokane Valley, WA.

Mike's absence has left his family with an immeasurable void. We will forever remember the way he chose to live and celebrate life - his smile, the twinkle in his eyes when he told a story or was listening intently to one of yours, his wondering curiosity and “what if’s." We are especially grateful for the multitude of photographs he always took at family gatherings that provide a family record we wouldn't otherwise have had.

The family wishes to extend our sincere appreciation for the many words of support, prayers, cards and phone calls from family, friends and coworkers.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to the Redemptorist Center Burmeister Gilmore Challenge to help fight hunger. (816) 561-3771 www.redemptoristkc.org

A funeral Mass followed by a reception to celebrate his life will be at 9:00 a.m., June 29, 2019, at our Lady of Perpetual Help, Redemptorist Church, 3333 Broadway Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64111.