Michael R. Phelan, a beloved and respected teacher, coach, community member, and family man, passed away after succumbing to the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. He was 76 years old.

Michael was born in Somerville, one of four children born to Richard and Juliette (Gosselin) Phelan. His childhood was spent living between Burlington and Somerville. He graduated from Somerville High School, where he excelled in baseball. He went on to attend Wentworth College, earning a degree in Engineering while also playing baseball. However, engineering wasn’t where he saw his future, so he continued his education at Baystate College, where he earned his teaching degree.

Mike began his teaching career in the Burlington School System as a middle school math teacher at Francis Wyman School. He later moved to Burlington High School, joining the math department. To say he had a unique teaching style would be an understatement. Students were thrilled when their class schedule showed they would have “Mr. Phelan,” and he never disappointed. On the first day of class, he might walk in and do a handstand or pull another memorable stunt or joke — instantly capturing his students’ attention for the rest of the semester.

He taught Geometry, Trigonometry, Basic Computer Programming, Lotus 1-2-3, and many other math and technology courses. Within hours of Michael’s passing, Facebook was filled with heartfelt tributes from former students: “He was such a nice guy — funny and just the perfect amount of weird,” “He was my favorite at BHS,” “He’s the one who got me into computers,” and “Great teacher and so kind.”

His quirky classroom traditions — catching the chalk to answer a question, “trash can free throws,” or putting a student in the recycling bin — made his classes memorable and fun. Yet amid the laughter, his students learned deeply. Mike retired from the Burlington Public Schools in 2008 but never stopped teaching. He taught at Bay Path Community College and even led computer classes for seniors — one of whom was his own mother.

Mike was also a remarkable coach, respected by both his players and his peers. A lifelong lover of tennis, he was an avid and competitive player, regularly playing at the Woburn Racquet Club with his good friend Kevin Fields. The two were affectionately known as the “Dynamic Duo,” a competitive and entertaining pair known for their humor and camaraderie.

He also served as the summer tennis manager at the Burlington Country Club, where he revitalized the tennis program and provided lessons for both youth and adults. Mike began coaching the Burlington High School boys’ tennis team in 1978, starting with a 2–11 record. Over the next decade, he steadily built a program of excellence, leading the team to its first-ever Middlesex League Championship in 1989 — followed by repeat championships in 1990 and 1991.

He coached the boys’ team until 1995, compiling an impressive record of 151 wins and 74 losses. In 1990, he was named Boston Globe Division I All-Scholastic Coach of the Year and received Lowell Sun Coach of the Year honors three times during his career. After an eight-year hiatus, Mike returned to Burlington High School as the girls’ tennis coach from 2003 to 2007. In 2005, the girls’ team captured their first Middlesex League Championship and went on to win the State Division II Title.

Mike taught his players not only the skills, strategy, and techniques of tennis but also the importance of teamwork, humility, and sportsmanship. He often joked with his top players, saying, “You’re the second-best tennis player in school history — everyone else is tied for first.” He was honored when he was inducted into the Burlington Athletic Hall of Fame in 2010

Beyond teaching and coaching, Mike was a devoted family man and a loyal friend to many. He shared 54 years of marriage with his loving wife, Sharon. They met through Sharon’s sister, and Mike finally asked her out when she stopped by the gas station for a fill-up. Ever the charmer and entertainer, Mike proposed by hiding an engagement ring inside a Cracker Jack box.

They made their home in Burlington, not far from where Mike grew up. Together, they embraced life with joy and adventure. They loved boating and kept their boat, “Teacher’s Pet,” docked on the Essex River. They cruised the coastline, set lobster traps, and Mike enjoyed scuba diving.

He was a supportive son, a caring brother and brother-in-law, and the fun uncle who loved playing with his nieces and nephews. Much like in his classroom, he taught through humor and creativity — and he always had his tennis racket ready for a quick game.

Mike lived a full and meaningful life. He may not have chosen the most profitable career paths, but he followed his passions and stayed true to his beliefs. He profoundly impacted countless students and athletes, many of whom carried his lessons into their adult lives — even coaching their own children’s teams. Nothing made Mike happier than running into a former student or player and being remembered fondly.

Mike Phelan left this world a better place. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to bring smiles to all whose lives he touched during his 76 years.

Mike was the beloved husband of Sharon (Sullivan) Phelan.  He was the beloved son of the late Richard and Juliette Phelan.  He was the brother of Richard Phelan & his wife Terry of Tewksbury, Thomas Phelan of Bangor, ME, and the late Louise Gilblair.  He was the brother-in-law of Ernie Caramanis of Tewksbury, Patricia Sullivan of Kennebunkport, ME, Elizabeth Luz of Waltham, Irene Sullivan of Burlington, the late Maryellen Caramanis, Paul Sullivan, and Donald Sullivan.  He was also survived by many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and friends.

Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn Street, Burlington on Monday, November 10 from 4 to 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Mike’s name may be made to Burlington Community  Scholarship Foundation, P.O. Box 1205, Burlington, MA 01803, www.bcsfds.dollarsforscholars.org or the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org/manh, 320 Nevada Street, #201, Newton, MA 02460.