Updated: Mar 24
No. 1 Fan, Montgomery High School Basketball
(July 13, 1948 - February 23, 2026)
Michael Charles Grundy, 77, of Long Valley, NJ, died peacefully on February 23, 2026, at Hackettstown Medical Center.
He was the proudest and most enthusiastic supporter of Montgomery High School basketball, where his son Kristopher serves as head coach — unquestionably the team's #1 fan.
Born on July 13, 1948, in Paterson, NJ, Michael was the son of the late John Grundy and Agnes Willis Grundy. He was a proud graduate of Glen Rock High School and continued his education at La Salle University. Michael made Long Valley his home for 44 years before spending the past seven years at Heath Village, where he formed many meaningful friendships and remained an active and beloved member of the community.
Michael built a long and dedicated career in sales with UPS, where he was known for his strong work ethic, warm personality, and gift for conversation. He forged lasting relationships both professionally and personally, always taking a genuine interest in the people around him.
Above all, Michael found his greatest joy in his family. He cherished every moment spent with his beloved wife, Kathleen, and their growing family. Michael especially cherished his role as "Pa" to his 11 grandchildren. He rarely missed a game, performance, or special event.
Michael loved saltwater fishing and family vacations in Ocean City, NJ and Myrtle Beach, SC. Whether casting a line, cheering from the stands, or simply gathering with family, he was happiest surrounded by those he loved.
He also shared his faith and his voice as a cantor at Heath Village, offering comfort, inspiration, and joy through music.
Michael is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Kathleen Grundy; his children, Michael (Cindy) Grundy, Kerri ( Dan) Marchetti, Kevin (Pam) Grundy, and Kristopher ( Megan) Grundy; and his 11 cherished grandchildren: Michael, Katie, Megan, Maura, Erin, Patrick, Kevin, Alexis, Jack, Ryan, and Matty.
He is also survived by his siblings, Maryanne Grundy, Liz (Dave) Renke, Paula (Steve) Blair, Kiki (John) Thielke, Bill (Barbara) Grundy, Joseph (Regina) Grundy, and Amy (Mike) Browne. He is further survived by his extended family, including his brothers and sisters-in-law, Kenneth (Donette) Dougherty, Maureen (Harry) Salvato, Eileen Donnelly, James (Robin) Dougherty, and Michael (Bettyanne) Dougherty. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Michael was predeceased in death by Jack and Karen Grundy and Sean Donnelly.
Michael will be remembered for his unwavering love of family, his generous spirit, his steadfast faith, and the joy he brought to every gathering. His legacy lives on in the family he adored and in the countless lives he touched.
A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 10:30 am at St. Luke RC Parish in Long Valley. Interment will take place at a later date at Our Lady of the Mountain RC Church Cemetery, also in Long Valley.
Memorial donations may be made to the Heath Village Friendship Fund by visiting https://www.heathvillage.com/friendship-fund.php
