Michael James Gafford

Michael James Gafford, 76, of Orlando, Florida, passed away on January 8, 2023, at AdventHealth Orlando. Mike was born in Chester, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Sun Valley High School in 1964. Shortly after, he entered the United States Army and was deployed to Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in 1968 and earned a Good Conduct Medal and a Vietnam Service Metal with a Bronze Star. Mike later worked for the U.S. Postal Service as a mail carrier, a police officer in both Pennsylvania and Florida and later worked as a semi-truck driver at Westshore Glass and Sweetbay Supermarkets.

In April 2021, Mike and his wife, Ida, both longtime residents of Tampa, moved to Orlando, Florida. Mike's favorite pastime included shopping for cars, finding local deals, driving his golf cart, completing his "daily duties," listening to country music and mostly spending time with family. Mike was loved by everyone and always made sure to stay in contact with family and friends. He will be greatly missed.

Mike was preceded in death by his mother, Teresa Miele Gafford and father, Horton Gafford. Mike is survived by his wife of 26 years, Ida Gafford; two daughters, Ginine (Jim) Lloyd and Tricia (Jay) Bosak; stepdaughter, Sherri (Lorenzo) Claudio; grandchildren, Logan Lloyd, Maureen, Katie and Emily Bosak, Elioenai, Olivia and Gianna Claudio; brothers, Bill Gafford, Dennis Gafford and John Gafford; and many nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at Bushnell National Cemetery, Friday, February 3rd at 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please donate in his name to The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health.
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