Michael J. Trilligan

SOUTH GRAFTON – Michael James Trilligan, 76, entered into God’s eternal care on July 6, 2026, surrounded by the prayers, love, and comfort of family.

Michael was born in Worcester on March 4, 1950 to James and Gloria (Couture) Trilligan and lived in Grafton his whole life. He graduated from Grafton High School in 1968 and later earned his Oil Burner Technician License from the New England Fuel Institute in 1981. He went on to build a successful career spanning more than thirty years, earning a reputation for his skill, dedication, and strong work ethic.

A dedicated public servant, Michael joined Grafton Fire Department, Station 3, in 1971 and proudly served the community for 28 years. Throughout his tenure, he demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership, and compassion, earning the respect and admiration of his fellow firefighters and the residents he served. His years of service were marked by a steadfast dedication to protecting others and responding whenever duty called. In recognition of his leadership and contributions to the department, he rose through the ranks and retired in 1999 as Deputy Chief.

A faithful member of the Catholic community, Michael was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus.

Following his retirement, he continued his life of service by working part-time as a custodian at St. James Church, his lifelong parish. For nearly ten years, Michael took great pride in caring for the church and supporting its community, remaining a familiar and welcoming presence to parishioners. He continued in this role until declining health from lung disease made it no longer possible for him to work.

He had a lifelong passion for NASCAR racing and looked forward to watching every weekly race. His favorite driver was Joey Logano, whom he proudly supported throughout the seasons. For many years, he enjoyed attending races at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, New Hampshire, creating cherished memories with his family while sharing his love of the sport. He also treasured the opportunity to visit and tour Daytona International Speedway, a memorable experience that celebrated his enthusiasm for NASCAR.

Michael also had a love for traveling and creating lasting memories through vacations with family and friends. He especially enjoyed cruising and had the opportunity to visit many beautiful destinations, including multiple trips throughout the Caribbean, a memorable journey to Hawaii, and an unforgettable voyage through the Panama Canal. These travels provided him with wonderful experiences, adventures, and cherished moments shared with the people he loved.

Michael leaves behind his beloved wife of forty-five years, Cheryl Trilligan (Gauthier), with whom he shared a lifetime of love and cherished memories. He is also survived by his sister, Kathleen Whelan of Orlando, FL; brother-in-law Michael Gauthier and his wife, Susanna, of South Grafton; sister-in-law Alison Ahearn and her husband, William, of Sutton; and his nieces and nephews, James Whelan and his wife, Lena, of Oviedo, FL; Martin Whelan IV and his wife, Jennifer, of Orlando, FL; Megan Leger and her husband, John, of South Grafton; Amy Gauthier of Millbury; Matthew Gauthier of Millbury; and Brendan Ahearn of Sutton. He also leaves his great-nieces and great-nephews, Adam Whelan, Kyle Whelan, Zachary Whelan, Oliver Whelan, Conor Whelan, Kian Whelan, Aubrey Leger, and Maisie Leger, along with many cherished cousins.

Michael was predeceased by his brother-in-law Martin Whelan III and his niece Violet Ahearn (his Sugar Muffin).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the OLH - St. James Bereavement C/O Ann Kjellberg 129 Keith Hill Road, South Grafton, MA 01560.

Family and friends will honor and remember Michael’s life by gathering for a time of visitation on Sunday, July 12th from 3 to 6 p.m. at Mulhane Home for Funerals, 45 N. Main Street in Millbury.

His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, July 13th at 11:00 a.m. in St. James Church, 89 Main Street in South Grafton. He will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery in Grafton.

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If you wish to send flowers to these services, Mulhane Home for Funerals recommends contacting a local florist directly for better value and selection.

Local Florist:

Danielson Flowers

https://danielsonflowers.com