Michael R. Graczyk

Surrounded by his family, Michael R. Graczyk, 80, of Natrona Heights passed away peacefully on July 15, 2020 to be with the Lord after bravely battling cancer. He was fondly known as Mike, Michael, Iron Mike, Uncle Red Eye, Dad, and Pap by those who knew and loved him.

He was born on March 6, 1940 in Natrona Heights to the late Michael S. and Victoria (Harpula) Graczyk. He graduated from Har-Brack High School in 1958 and Alliance College in Cambridge Springs, PA with honors with a Bachelor of Science degree. He worked for PA American Water Company in West Elizabeth, PA as a chemist for 30 years prior to retiring at age 62.

He was a member of Guardian Angels Parish, Most Blessed Sacrament Church and the Knights of Columbus, Council 2602. He was a dedicated Little League Baseball coach for many years and enjoyed gardening, horse races, scratch-off tickets, sitting on the porch, and doing crossword puzzles. He was a huge Notre Dame fan, loved listening to Polish Christmas music, always had words of wisdom, and loved to dance the polka. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather who enjoyed spending time with his family, most especially his grandchildren who brightened his life and put a twinkle in his eye.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Elaine (Naworski) Graczyk of Natrona Heights and his four children Christopher Graczyk of Natrona Heights, Patrick Graczyk and wife Kathi of Sarver, Julie Graczyk-Hiester and Eric Shankle of Natrona Heights, Sheryl (Graczyk) Schrecongost and husband William of Sarver, 11 grandchildren Samm, Hailey, Ethan, Alexis, Amber, Morgan, Kira, Lainey, Michael, Kasey, and Adam, numerous nieces and nephews, and sister Jeanne (Graczyk) Miller and her husband the late Richard Miller of Cambridge Springs.

Friends will be received on Sunday from 2-6 p.m. in the Cicholski-Zidek Funeral Home, Inc., 1522 Carlisle Steret, Natrona Heights 724-224-8688, where a parting prayer service will be held on Monday at 9:30 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10 a.m. in Most Blessed Sacrament Church. Burial will be in St. Ladislaus Cemetery, Natrona Heights. Everyone is asked to adhere to social distancing and wearing of a mask and limit of 25 people at a time in the funeral home per state mandates. To send an online condolence please visit www.cicholski-zidekfh.com.