2025 Parade Grand Marshal
Michael J. Henlyshyn
Born on January 27, 1952, in Rochester, NY, Michael J. Henlyshyn is the son of Michael NMN Henlyshyn and Barbara A. Scahill, both of Rochester. His paternal grandparents, Dimetro Henlyshyn and Sophie Dutro Henlyshyn, emigrated from Europe on the last free ship to leave at the onset of the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917. His maternal grandparents, Thomas F. Scahill and Mary E. (Mae) Feeney, hailed from Castlebar, County Mayo, Ireland, before settling in Rochester.
Michael grew up as one of six children, with three sisters and two brothers. He attended Holy Rosary Grammar School until 6th grade, when the family moved to Penfield, a Rochester suburb. Michael graduated from the Penfield public school system in 1969.
After working in food service and catering, Michael enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1972, serving for six years. His assignments included two years in Quonset Point, RI; two years in Newport, RI; and two years aboard the USS John Adams (SSBN 620 Gold) in South Carolina and Holy Loch, Scotland. While stationed at NETC Newport, Michael received a commendation from the Chief of Naval Operations for successfully establishing Ready Supply Store #76, supporting the fleet along the East Coast. During his time in South Carolina, he earned a degree in Hotel and Motel Management from the University of South Carolina.
Michael met his wife, Donna Chamberlin, while stationed in Quonset Point, and they have been happily married for over 51 years. They have two children, Devin Patrick and Megan Nicole, both residing in Newport, RI.
Following an honorable discharge in 1978, Michael returned to the food service and hospitality industry, managing restaurants in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Florida. In 1983, he transitioned to a role at WADK/WOTB in Newport before accepting a position with the Navy Exchange, where he supervised 19 service departments.
In late 1987, Michael became the Superintendent of Island Cemetery Company. Later, he was elected President of the Board of Trustees, serving both roles until his retirement in 2019. His tenure was the longest in the company’s 171-year history.
Michael has a long history of community involvement. He served as a parade marshal for the original Aquidneck Island Police Parade in the 1980s and later supported the Newport St. Patrick’s Day Parade, joining the committee in 2011.
A life member of the AOH Dennis E. Collins Division 1, Michael also served as AOH State President. Additionally, he is a 20-year member of the BPOE Elks Lodge #104 and a life member of the Museum of Newport Irish History.
Michael enjoys traveling, golfing around the world, and has been a 24-year member of Montaup Country Club in Portsmouth, RI.
He was deeply honored to be selected as the 69th Grand Marshal of the Newport St. Patrick’s Day Parade and is proud to have contributed behind the scenes to its annual success.
This Year’s Button:
Our annual button designs celebrate the vocation, interests, and heritage of our Grand Marshal. This year’s design is no exception, incorporating meaningful elements that reflect the Grand Marshal’s life and passions.
The button prominently features two symbolic elements: the Irish Tree of Life and a tribute to the Grand Marshal’s faithful canine companions, Tessa and Willow.
The Irish Tree of Life, or Crann Bethadh, is a timeless Celtic symbol representing balance, harmony, and the cyclical nature of life. It serves as a reminder of the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds. This symbol holds special significance for our Grand Marshal, who dedicated many years to serving as the administrator of Island Cemetery—a historic site rooted in the early Garden Cemetery Movement. In this role, he compassionately guided families through life’s final chapter for their loved ones. For those with a sharp eye, a heart formed by the branches adds a unique touch to the design.
As a devoted dog lover, our Grand Marshal treasures his two Golden Retrievers, Tessa and Willow. For this year’s button, however, their presence is symbolized by Irish Wolfhounds—an ancient, noble breed known for their calm demeanor and loyalty. Irish Wolfhounds hold a special place in Irish culture, revered as both hunters and guardians.
The Irish Wolfhound is also the official mascot of the 69th Regiment, an army unit renowned for its rich Irish heritage, with some estimates suggesting that during the American Civil War up to 85% of its members were of Irish descent. As a proud veteran, it is fitting that Michael’s year as Grand Marshal coincides with the 69th anniversary of this celebrated event.
Congratulations, Mike, on being named the Grand Marshal of the 69th Annual Newport St. Patrick’s Day Parade!
