It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Michael L. Clapp, 71, of Tewksbury, Massachusetts, who passed away unexpectedly in his home on July 25th, 2026.
Michael was born in Malden, Massachusetts to the late Laurence and Mary Zaia Clapp. In addition to his parents, Michael is reunited with his brother Alan Clapp and daughter Lilly Clapp. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 34 years, Kathleen Parkinson Clapp, adoring daughters Erica, Emilee, and Sara Clapp, cherished grandson Antonio Byrne, and many beloved nieces and nephews. He is also lovingly remembered by his brother, Robert Clapp and his life partner Jeanette Clough, his sister Kathy Clapp, his sister-in-law, Patricia Smaha Clapp and his brother-in-law, Kris Parkinson.
Michael’s favorite pastime was what he dubbed “the greatest game ever invented”: golf. He spent countless blissful hours indulging in every aspect of the sport; whether he was playing around with his godson Matthew, watching tournaments on TV, or collecting stray golf balls from his backyard, he relished every moment spent surrounding himself with his passion. In the kitchen, Michael warmed up every holiday with his signature French onion soup, grilled vegetables, and fried turkey (which could not be fried without adorning a stuffed turkey hat). He loved spending the day relaxing with his best friend and trusted steed, his goldendoodle, Benny. Once evening fell, he could be found puffing his tobacco pipe in his backyard, gazing at the pool he so diligently maintained, and discussing the day's events with his "honey" Kathleen.
For most of his professional career, Michael served as a Regional Sales Manager. He was a loyal, trustworthy, and committed employee whose salesmanship skills were unparallelled. Michael was so successful as a salesman due to his sharp wit, tender nature, and truly unique charisma.
If you were to ask Michael what he was most proud of in his life, he would say his three girls, Erica, Emilee, and Sara. His devotion and completely selfless love for them was unmatched. Michael’s girls loved him just as much as he loved them and will carry his unconditional love with them forever.
Calling hours are Thursday, July 30th, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, 16 Lee Street, Tewksbury.
His funeral procession will begin on Friday, July 31st, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by his funeral Mass to be celebrated at 11 a.m. at St. Robert Bellarmine Church, 198 Haggetts Pond Road, Andover.
In lieu of flowers, Michael's family requests donations in his memory be made to the M.S.P.C.A-Nevins Farm, at www.mspca.org or to the American Red Cross at www.redcross.org