Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home
Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | February 25, 2023
Michael A. Opalko, age 67, of West Mifflin, passed away on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, at the VA Medical Center in Pittsburgh. Born in McKeesport on January 14, 1956, he is the son of Albert “Junior” and Patricia (Spanitz) Opalko of North Huntingdon. Michael graduated from Norwin Highschool in 1973, where he was a member of the National Honor Society, National Forensic League, ski club and other various activities. He was a U.S. Army Veteran, who was stationed in Germany, earning his parachutist “jump wings” and participated in the Army’s boxing programs. He was a US Postal worker, known fondly by everyone as “Mike the Mailman.” A long-time learner with time spent at St. Vincent College and Community College of Allegheny County, a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership from Penn State University, and continuing education certificates from Villanova University. He was a member of Bible Baptist Temple in Clairton, PA. Michael loved socializing, making friends with people from all walks of life. He was an eccentric, free spirit who had a presence as soon as he walked in the room and was happy to share his faith in Christ. Some favorite activities he is remembered by playing guitar, playing chess, swimming, music from the 60’s & 70’s, cooking (especially making his grandmother’s strudel), working on home projects, gardening, reading, and writing. He loved his close and extended family, and if you were a friend, he considered you family. If you were family, he was in your corner, and he was a good guy to have in your corner. He will be deeply missed by many. Besides his parents, he is survived by his wife of 44 years, Colleen (Pawlak) Opalko; children Jessica (Andrew Pfister) Opalko of Ben Avon Heights, Melissa Opalko of West Mifflin and Amanda (Louis M. Kruszewski) Opalko of Port Vue; grandchildren Nikolas, Madelyn, Laila, Alec, Iris, Christian and Millina. There will be no visitation at this time, but a Memorial Service and Commemoration of his Life will be held at a date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Colleen Opalko, ℅ the Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home, for funeral and medical expenses. Arrangements entrusted to the MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 915 KENNEDY AVE., DUQUESNE, 412-466-3300, WILLIAM B. SCHLEIFER, SUPERVISOR, WILLIAM BRIAN SCHLEIFER, FUNERAL DIRECTOR.
Originally published February 25, 2023.
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