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Michael Matthew Amrich Jr., 70, a longtime resident of Franklin, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
Michael was a beloved son, brother, father, uncle, and grandpa. He was born in West Chicago, Illinois, in 1955 to Michael Matthew Amrich Sr. and Mary Grace (Menegus) Amrich, originally from Torrington, Connecticut, both of whom predeceased him. He will be deeply missed by his older sister, MaryAnn; his two younger brothers, Mark and Marty; his three beloved children, Melissa “Blue,” Jillian, and Stephen; and his grandchildren, Mateo, Louisa, and Lucas. He was also predeceased by his cherished twin sister, Michelle.
In 1963, Michael moved with his family to Needham, Massachusetts, where he graduated from Needham High School in 1973. He went on to attend the University of Massachusetts Amherst, earning a Bachelor of Applied Science in Physical Education and Exercise Physiology in 1979.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Michael discovered a deep passion for prosthetics and devoted his life to helping others. He completed post-graduate certificate programs in Prosthetics at UCLA in 1981 and New York University in 1982, later continuing his education with a post-graduate certificate in Orthotics from Northwestern University in 1992. He practiced clinical prosthetics for 37 years before transitioning into research, education, and consultation, first at College Park Industries and later at Steeper Inc.
Michael traveled extensively across the United States and internationally — including China, Lebanon, India, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and France — educating others in the prosthetics field. He was deeply committed to supporting fellow prosthetists and could be found talking on the phone or sending messages at any hour of the day. He retired from the field in December 2025.
Family was the center of Michael’s life. That devotion began with the close relationships he shared with his parents and siblings and deepened as he became a father and grandfather. He was a devoted father who cherished every part of fatherhood — from summers spent camping to telling bedtime stories. He participated in every aspect of his children’s lives, including coaching sports, helping with homework, bringing his prosthetics into elementary school classrooms, and simply playing together in the front yard. He approached parenting with love, patience, and pride.
Michael was the proud grandpa to his three grandchildren and energetic granddog, Flint. He loved watching his grandchildren play in his front yard, passing down family traditions, and seeing his own children become parents.
When asked what he enjoyed most, Michael would say talking and being outside. He found joy in community — through lifelong neighborhood friendships, conversations with fellow dog walkers at Leland Wild, and friendly chats with strangers at the grocery store. He was always open, curious, and eager to learn about others. Known for his immense gratitude, “thank you” became his familiar catchphrase. His warmth and kindness touched many lives, and he will be deeply missed.
Michael was diagnosed with ALS in 2024 and faced the disease with remarkable strength, unwavering positivity, and determination. He was proud to contribute to research through the incredible ALS team at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral Wednesday January 21st, at 9AM from the Charles F. Oteri and Son Franklin Funeral Home 33 Cottage St. followed by a funeral Mass in St. Mary's Church, Franklin at 10AM. To view the Mass click stmarysfranklin.org
Burial will follow at the parish cemetery.
Calling hours are Tuesday January 20th, from 5-7PM at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Compassionate Care ALS Headquarters 17 Chase Rd, Falmouth, MA 02540 www.ccals.org
