Michael J. Giroux, aged 70, passed away peacefully at his home on January 4, 2024. Born on October 27, 1953, he was the son of Victor and Ramona Giroux of Hinesburg, where he also spent the majority of his life. Michael was a lifelong and well-known member of the community. His presence will be greatly missed.

In 1972, he graduated from CVU and subsequently followed in his father's footsteps by serving in the US Army. Stationed in Germany for a period, he became fluent in the language. When he returned he would often end up delighting those around him with captivating stories of his experience narrated in German. When he returned home he explored his passion for flying by becoming a pilot, accumulating numerous flight hours and even constructing his own gyrocopter. His skill and knowledge knew little bounds as it would appear that he was able to accomplish almost any task that was set in front of him. From building his own Dune buggy out of a 1965 Renault at the age of 17, to constructing each of the homes he lived in throughout his later years. Michaels ability to creatively problem solve was very much unmatched and something that those around him were grateful to learn from.

Although he briefly joined his brothers at Giroux Body Shop (which marked its centennial recently), he eventually transitioned to become a self-employed welder/fabricator, amassing an impressive and diverse portfolio of work. Renowned for his innate ability to design and fabricate without the need for blueprints, he became the go-to person for fixing anything, earning a well-deserved reputation.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Michael found joy in socializing and connecting with people. He was known for his generosity, always willing to extend a helping hand to anyone in need. However, his greatest source of fulfillment was being a father. Attending his daughter Tanyastar's graduation at the age of 40 with his 6-month-old son, Michael R. Giroux, on his shoulders.

He would go on and devote the next 30 years to his son. Handing down invaluable little tidbits of knowledge and wisdom every chance he could. He loved the early years tailgating his son's soccer games and piling the team in his van to go play at the Shelburne Field House, which he played a major role in building. His copper art still hangs outside of the building. His son was his world. He retired from work but he never took a day off from being a Dad.

He leaves behind his two children, Michael R. Giroux and Tanyastar Kim, his grandson Jeyu Kim, and his partner of 32 years and mother to his son, Tami Rickert. He is also survived by his siblings and their significant others: Vickie and Scott Wendell, Robert and MaryBeth Giroux, Steven and Kathy Giroux, David and Bobbie Giroux, and Patti and Bill Drew. Predeceased by his parents Victor and Romano Giroux and his sister Pam Giroux.

Services to commemorate his life will be determined at a later date.