Michael Francis Delaney

Born on December 20, 1948 in Detroit, Michigan, Mike lived a life defined by courage, service, and love. A proud veteran, Mike served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. During his time in service, he was severely injured in a car accident that changed the course of his life—but not his spirit.

Rather than be defined by his injury, Mike became a tireless advocate for others. He went on to serve as President of Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) and worked in the organization’s Corporate Development Office for 26 years, ensuring funding for the National Veterans Wheelchair Games through corporate sponsorships. His work helped provide hope, opportunity, and dignity for generations of injured veterans. Michael played a vital role in the fight for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), working passionately to ensure accessibility, equity, and rights for people with disabilities across the nation.

Mike’s legacy of service extended beyond policy and advocacy. He had a deep belief in the power of community and the importance of giving others a chance to rebuild, thrive, and live full, meaningful lives after injury.

Above all, Mike was a family man. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathryn, and their four children: Becky and her husband Dave, and their children Lexi and Connor; Christy, and her children Sam, Jack, Katie, and Mary; Colleen and her husband Pat, and their children Nicholas and Molly; and Joe and his wife Stephanie, and their children Mick and Maddie. He was a proud and loving “Pop-Pop” to his ten grandchildren, who brought him endless joy and were a constant source of pride. His ten grandchildren were the center of his life, and he took great pride in cheering them on in everything they did, including Irish Dance, Baseball, Fencing, Field Hockey, Rugby, and Lacrosse.

In addition to his national advocacy, Mike made a lasting impact in his local community. He was a dedicated coach and Athletic Director for the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) at St. Camillus, where he not only coached his daughters, but continued coaching long after they aged out of the program. He believed that every child deserved the chance to play. He and Kathy would spend their evenings driving through the community, picking up players for practices and games to ensure no one was left behind. His compassion and commitment extended far beyond the field.

Michael will be remembered for his steadfast determination, vocal advocacy, sharp wit, and deep compassion. He leaves behind a legacy of advocacy, strength, and unwavering love for his family and country.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 13, 2025 from 4-8 PM at Hines Rinaldi Funeral Home located at: 11800 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland 20904.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, August 14th at 10:30 at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church located at 4101 Norbeck Road, Rockville, Maryland 20853. Burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

The family will hold a reception following the burial at the home of Kathy and Mike Delaney at 14212 Burning Bush Lane, Silver Spring, Maryland 20906.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Michael’s honor to Paralyzed Veterans of America, continuing the mission he held so dear or Montgomery Hospice, who provided care and support during Michael’s final days. Michael Francis Delaney showed the world that life after injury is not only possible—it can be powerful, purposeful, and full of grace. He will be deeply missed and forever honored.