DALTON, Mass. — Michael William Gaffney, 67, of Winchester, Conn., and Dalton, Mass., died in his sleep on March 30, 2023.  

He was born in Pittsfield, Mass., on July 30, 1955, to William and Mary Leona Gaffney. He graduated from Waconah High School in 1974, Berkshire Community College in 1976, and earned his Bachelor's Degree from Lyndon College in 1979.

Mike lived up to his moniker of "The Gaffer." He was readily available to help anyone who needed an extra hand. Gaffer was a burly mountain man with a heart ten sizes too big for his body and a gentle nature that put people at ease.  His robust laugh, big smile and playful sense of humor were so versatile; he could joke with kids and heartily bust on his friends. He was forever famous for his salute, usually snuck in when nobody else was looking.  He loved working with people and teaching them everything he knew and instilling the confidence in others to go a bit further. He touched so many people's lives in so many ways, he will be greatly missed by his family and friends who were fortunate to know his love.

Gaffer lost the love of his life of 32 years, Elaine Pound, on January 9, 2013.  Together they raised her three children, Norman, Danny and Shannon and remained close with them as they scattered to live their own lives.  He loved all his children and his grandchildren.  Most recently, he enjoyed being Grandpa to little Leona whom he adored.

Gaffer was a Deadhead and a big Max Creek fan. He attended concerts and festivals with many friends. Music was a big part of his life. He enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid fisherman and camper.  He began his own side business of Gaffer's Outdoors in 1985 and chartered many people to navigate the local rivers to fish or to enjoy nature. He worked at several local bars and restaurants, ski areas and camps, making friends everywhere he worked.  He spent thirty-two years as a SPED teacher and administrator at Kolburne School, where he was an invaluable asset to the school and the students. Most recently Mike worked for DCR Department of Conservation and Recreation where he enjoyed working at most of the local parks.

Michael leaves his sister, Linda Gaffney of Dalton, Mass., with whom he always shared a close bond, and whom he helped take care of by splitting his time between Winchester, Conn., and Dalton, Mass. He leaves his son Norman Pound and his wife Lindsay, his son Daniel Pound and his daughter Shannon Pound, together with his grandchildren, Casey Ludwig, Devin Kissell, Dante Kissell, Zoe Pound and Leona Pound.  Mike also leaves many cousins from Dalton: Pat Rudd, Karen Quinn, Tim Quinn, Mike Quinn, Joe Quinn, Steve Quinn, and Bridget Quinn.

There will be a Celebration of Life on July 29, 2023, at 1pm at The Farm, New Marlborough (former Kolburne School / Lower School property). An Event page can be found on Facebook for more information.

There will be music provided by the very talented and great pal of Gaffer's, Diz. (diz@dizmusic.com). There will be an opportunity for anyone to share memories, or break out in song!

Light fare buffet, Gaffer's Iced Tea and cheap canned beer will be provided.

Please feel free to make a dish to add to the table, just let the family know

If there are photos that you'd like to share or if you'd like to add something for the family to read, please contact the family.