Michael Andrew Sawayda

Michael A. Sawayda, 82, passed away on December 30, 2018 after suffering a traumatic head injury. Mike was born in Walkertown, PA on May 2, 1936 to John P. & Julia (Gustic) Sawayda. Mike graduated from California, PA High School. His parents didnt want Mike to work in the coal mines, so instead they headed to Warren, OH to work in one of the Mahoning Valleys steel mills. Mike began working at Republic Steel in Warren in 1954. On August 10, 1957, Mike was united in marriage to former Joan M. "Joni" Panak who preceded him in death on August 25, 2014. Joan called him Mick, and to many of his relatives and friends he was also known as Mickey. After spending 12 years working at Republic Steel, Mike changed jobs in 1966 to work at the newly opened GM Lordstown, OH Auto Assembly Plant, Union Badge #104. He was known by his friends at the plant as "Big Mike". He retired at the end of 1995 with 30 years. A man of great faith, Mike was an active member at St. William Church for over 50 years where he was involved with the Knights of Columbus, and the Friday Fish Dinner team. He was the player manager of the first St. William softball team in 1968 playing 3rd base. The St. William softball team was one of the best Church softball teams in the area for many years. Those farm boys could sure play. Mike also played baseball in the Warren AA league at Packard Park in Warren for several years in his early twenties. He also spent time as a member of the Eagles and Slovak Clubs. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. And, his fishing buddy was his youngest daughter Sandy. Mike was also extremely proud to be a regular blood donor as he was blood type O-. He was an avid fan of all things Steelers, Pirates, Penguins, Cavaliers and Buckeyes. Most importantly he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and brother. Mike is survived by his children Michael Sawayda, Jr., Cynthia Harrow and Sandra (Robert) Polansky; 7 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren and his brother John (Irene) Sawayda. Visitation for Michael will be held on Sunday January 6, 2019 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Lane Funeral Homes, Roberts-Clark Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. at St. William Church in Champion on Monday January 7, 2019 with the family receiving friends starting at 9:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mikes name for a mass at St. William Church or give time or a contribution to your favorite charity or person(s) in need.