Obituary of Michael Anthony Paslaski
Michael Anthony Paslaski April 2, 1927 — October 16, 2023
WWII Navy Veteran Michael Anthony Paslaski, 96, passed away after a sudden illness, Monday, October 16, 2023 surrounded by his children and grandchildren.
Born in 1927 on the south side of Chicago, Illinois, to his beloved parents William and Mary Paslaski (née Kocon). Mike was the 6th of 9 children. An incredibly humble and giving young man, he dropped out of school to help support his family. At age 17, he joined the United States Navy. Insistent he must help protect his country during WWII, he served honorably along with four of his brothers until the war ended. He then returned to his hometown where he married and became the loving father of 4 children, Treva Beth, Lisa, Michael and Paul.
Mike was a selfless, quiet, hard-working man of honor and integrity known for his quick wit and warm heart. There was nothing more important to Mike than his family. He made innumerable sacrifices throughout his lifetime to care for his parents, siblings and his children, working tirelessly through retirement for the Union Pacific Railroad and Joliet Army Ammunition Plant. Mike was a skilled welder and tradesman...and Mike could fix anything. Literally anything!
He was rich in all the things most important in life; faith, family, laughter and love. He had an innate way of respectfully getting right to the heart of any matter and he spoke with a pragmatic kindness -- wise well beyond his formal education. Mike believed and demonstrated throughout his life that true success is measured in love.
Mike was a man who believed actions spoke louder than words. He unobtrusively yet fiercely loved God, his family, his country and his friends. He had an adventurous yet content spirit. If family or friends were involved – he was up for any adventure but was happiest at home surrounded by those he loved. He enjoyed a good western, country music and reminiscing about his many adventures.
He is preceded in death by his loving parents, brothers Joseph, Pete, Sigmund, John, Frank, Vince, sister Antoinette(Toni) and her husband Ed Sherman, his son Michael Anthony Rowlett, daughter Treva Beth and great grandson Noah.
He is survived by his brother George (Darlene), his daughter Lisa (Mark) Albin, his son Paul (Lori) Paslaski, his grandchildren Beth (Amp) Jordan, Jennifer Albin, Christopher Albin , Tommy Paslaski, Kara Paslaski, Robert Paslaski, Meeghan Paslaski, Phoebe Paslaski, Caroline Paslaski, Jimmy Bolas, Allison Bolas and Hillary Paslaski. He is also survived by his great grandchildren Danika, Thomas, Colby, Spencer and his great great granddaughter Aliyah, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews and best buddy Carl Schramm.
A memorial visitation, service with military honors will be held Saturday, October 28, 2023 at McMurrough Funeral Chapel, 101 Park Place Libertyville, IL 60048. Visitation from 4-6 pm. Service at 6 pm. In lieu of flowers, Mike would be honored by a donation to Tunnel to Towers (t2t.org) or any organization supporting United States Veterans.