Michael F. Waskiewicz

Mr. Michael F. Waskiewicz, age 63, of Utica, passed away on Thursday, January 21, 2010 in the comfort and privacy of his home with his loving wife by his side. Born in Utica on August 10, 1946, Michael was the son of the late Francis T. and Mary Carol (Worden) Waskiewicz. Raised and educated locally, he was a 1965 graduate of Utica Free Academy where he excelled in the sports of football and wrestling. A proud veteran of the U.S. Army, he served his country during the Vietnam Era as a member of the Green Berets, the Army’s special operations forces. He was decorated with 2 Presidential Purple Hearts and was recommended to receive a Silver Star for valor. Upon his honorable discharge from the Army, he attended Fremont College in Nebraska where he held the position of linebacker on the football squad. On February 13, 1971 he married the former Diane R. Semeraro with whom he shared 38 years; they were a well matched couple who prioritized their lives around their family and enjoyed each other’s company. Michael worked as a cooking instructor at the Career Development Center, and was a sous-chef and specialist in banquet skills at the Radisson Hotel. His most recent employment was at Castlewood Restaurant on Oneida Street. Dedicated to his profession, he was often complimented on his unique culinary preparations not only at his places of employment, but also at home where he prepared outstanding Christmas Eve feasts for his family. Above all other events, Michael’s best times were those shared with his family, especially his grandchildren who he entertained during their playtime activities, donned in full attire; he especially enjoyed the time spent "hunting crickets" with the grandchildren. His impersonations of Officer Bozo, Panzar the Spy, and his much-beloved interpretation of “Dr. Waskiewicz” will forever be in his grandchildren’s memories. He took a true interest in the lives of those he loved. He was a proud man, but his strong personality was blended with a sensitive heart. As a father, he instilled values, reinforced his paternal love, and was always available, especially during times of need. An outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing the St. Lawrence River and hunting the northern zone, times and places where he was at his best. Michael is survived by his wife, Diane; his daughter and son-in-law, Kim and Virgil Farrow of PA; his son and daughter-in-law, Michael S and Erin Waskiewicz of FL; and his cherished “play mates”, his grandchildren, Sophia, and John Farrow; and Michael, and Megan Waskiewicz. Survivors also include his brother and sister-in-law, Carl and Alice Waskiewicz of FL; his nieces and nephews, Nicole and Adam, Jill and Michael, Chris and Laurel, John, David and Betty, Jennie, and Sandra; his great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Josephine and Ray MacDuff, Mary and Roger Ackley, Wanda Semeraro, longtime and cherished friends David and Lorraine Walsh, and his buddies at the Auburn Tavern. He was predeceased by his in-laws, Ralph “Lefty” and Jennie Semeraro; and his brother-in-law, John Semeraro. The family extends sincere thanks to the Utica Fire Department Rescue One personnel for their timely response and compassion; Julie Milograno, RN from Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. who provided the essence of security by her presence; and the nurses and staff of 3B at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center for their outstanding care. Gratitude is offered to Dr. Lowenstein for his professionalism and concern. Visitation will be held Sunday (today) from 2:00-5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial contributions in Michael’s honor to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc.; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Michael’s funeral service will commence on Monday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with full Military Honors.

Michael F. Waskiewicz

August 10, 1946 - January 21, 2010