Michael George POTASNIK

5 MAR 1937 - 22 JUN 2016

• BIRTH: 5 MAR 1937, Widen, Clay, West Virginia
• DEATH: 22 JUN 2016, Gladwin, Michigan

INDEX

[N20744] 1937 - 2016
Michael George Potasnik, age 79, of Gladwin, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 22, 2016. Born to Michael and Marianne (Maniowczak) Potasnik on March 5, 1937, he was one of 11 brothers and sisters: Stella (Ray) Dobkowski, Mary (Harry) Niday, Frank (Vinnie) Potasnik, Jewel Potasnik, Victoria (Ted) Sims, Helen (Phil) Gallo, Rose (Steve) Ciszczon, Ted (Monica) Potasnik, Fred (Francis) Potasnik, and Paul Potasnik. He lived his retirement years in Gladwin, Michigan, where he enjoyed golf and entertaining his friends and family. Michael had a long and distinguished career, graduating from St. Benedict's High School in 1951, earning a Bachelor's of Science degree in English from the University of Detroit, and a Masters of Arts from Central Michigan University in 1975. He served in the Department of the Army, specifically the US Army Tank - Automotive Command in Warren, Michigan, retiring Oct. 1, 1990. During his career in the Army, Michael had several tours to Vietnam during the Vietnam War, and, later, numerous trips to Europe (including Germany). In
2000, he continued his travels and went on a golf vacation with his golf buddies to Ireland. Michael will always be remembered for his kind and caring view of life. He could always make you laugh or put a smile on your face. Friends came easily - ask his Sugar Springs' guys and gals! He will be missed by all of his friends and family.
Michael's memory will be cherished by his brother Frank, and sisters Helen and Rose. He is also survived by 26 nephews and nieces (two of which have already passed), and many grand nieces and nephews. Memorial Services will be conducted by Father Portelli on Friday, July 8, 2016 at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church located at 330 N. Silverleaf Street, Gladwin, MI 48624. There will be a brunch immediately following the service at "The Hearth" restaurant located at 1930 Sugar River Road, Gladwin, MI, 48624. Michael's final internment will be in the metro Detroit area at a future date.
Those wishing to send an expression of sympathy to the family, in lieu of flowers, are asked to consider donations in Michael's name to the Alzheimer's Association. Arrangements are in the care of Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home, Gladwin, Michigan. Published in Gladwin County Record and Beaverton Clarion on June 29, 2016