On Feb. 25, Michael "Mike" J. Sullivan, loving husband, father, grandfather, friend, co-worker and so much more, passed away at the age of 69 due to complications with COVID-19.
Sullivan was born on July 21, 1951 in Philadelphia. In 1989, Sullivan met his soulmate and the love of his life, Michelle Smith, from Ottawa, Canada. They were introduced by a mutual friend and married on Nov. 23, 1991. Michael and Michelle shared a love for animals, children, boating, wine and travel among other things and would spend almost half of their lives committed to one another.
Sullivan, known as "Mike" by the roofing industry, started his career working at Drexel Materials, a roofing distributor where he swept floors and worked in the warehouse. He then spent time working for local law enforcement in the City of Colwyn, but his early roots in the roofing industry pulled him back and the entire industry was better for it.
Sullivan had an impeccable reputation and was as levelheaded and determined as anyone. He believed in hard work, building relationships, follow-up and most importantly, keeping his word. Over the years, Sullivan worked for Drexel, Dibiten, Monsey-Bakor, Henry and Homasote. He spent the final 16 years of his career at APOC / Gardner-Gibson Inc., where he pioneered the east and helped position APOC as a national leader in cements, coatings and roof restoration systems. Sullivan paved the way for so many in the roofing industry. His work ethic, loyalty and innovative ideas allowed him to become one of the most respected individuals in the roofing industry and his contributions have been etched into roofing history.
Sullivan viewed each day as an opportunity to do what you love and give it your very best. He was a source of inspiration and motivation to all he encountered and will be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, it was Sullivan's wish that any memorial tributes be made in the form of charitable donations to www.tailsofvalor.org — nonprofit 501(c)(3). EIN# 81-1221443. There will not be a ceremony at this time due to current COVID-19 restrictions. Details for a celebration of life will be released at a later date.