Michael G. Irwin

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Michael G. Irwin, 47, of McDonnell St., Amsterdam, NY, passed away Wednesday, July 9, 2008, at St. Mary's Hospital in Amsterdam from complications following a three-month battle with cancer.

He was born in Mt. Lebanon Township, Pa., on September 9, 1960. He was the son of James M. and Tina Kubach Irwin. He graduated from Upper St. Clair Township High School in PA and attended the University of Cincinnati. Mike was a standup comic for 28 years and did comedy writing and teaching in addition to performing his comedy routines in clubs and colleges throughout the country. He was well known in comedy circles in New York City, New York state and New Jersey.

He married Esther Chardavoyne Irwin on May 10, 2001. In addition to his wife, survivors include his parents, James and Tina Irwin of Venice, Florida; three sons, Carter, Christopher and Connor Sullivan-Irwin of Scotia, NY; one stepson, Jordan Pettit-Irwin of Amsterdam, NY; one brother, David K. Irwin (Debi) of Meridian, Idaho; one sister, Karen I. Daum (David) of Butler, Pa.; aunts, Sieglinde Rieger, Gladys H. Irwin and Phyllis Raney; and one uncle, Edwin W. Irwin. Nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

He was predeceased by a brother, Mark D. Irwin, who passed away in 2007.

A celebration of Michael's life will be held on Monday, July 14, 2008, at 11:00 A.M. at the Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Ave, Amsterdam, NY, with Rev. David Pilliad presiding. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Michael Irwin Family and Scholarship Fund. This will benefit his family during difficult times and establish a scholarship for aspiring young comedians. Donations can be made at any Bank of America Nationwide or mailed to the Bank of America, 56 East Main St., Amsterdam, NY 12010. Please designate name of fund on your donation. Please sign Michael's online guestbook at www. brbsfuneral.com.