Obituary of Michael Patrick Podrosky

AKRON-Michael Patrick Podrosky, 91, died Thursday, January 17, 2013 at the Ohio Veteran's Home in Sandusky following complications after an extended illness. He leaves behind and is dearly missed by his wife of 64 years, Lillian Podrosky; daughter, Patricia Gallagher; grandchildren, April Gallagher Myers and Robert Michael Gallagher; great-grandson, Liam Leigh Myers; sister, Madeline (Richard) Grill , many beloved nieces and nephews, in-laws, and friends. He was preceded in death by sons, Michael Podrosky and Edward Michael Podrosky; brother, John Podrosky; sisters, Mary Kay Schafer, Wilma Watts and Helen Durgala. Born on April 30, 1921 in Leirsing Pennsylvania the son of John and Mary Podrosky, he was raised in Akron. After graduating from East High School, he entered the Ohio National Guard with training in Biloxi Mississippi . Then he was in the 145 Infantry of the 37th Division. He earned the rank of Sergeant in the 37thDivision. His nickname was Sergeant Teeny Mike, a joke because he was so tall. He was wounded in battle and had the option of not returning to his company, but decided that he wanted to be with his men. He was wounded a second time and being discharged from the Army when WWII ended. Michael is a veteran of World War II, having served in the South Pacific Theatre where he earned several medals including the Purple Heart and Oak Leaf Cluster Bronze, Bronze Star Medal, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal, American Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal and Bronze Star Attachment (Double), World War II Victory Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge 1st Award, Philippine Liberation Ribbon and Bronze Star Attachment (Single) and Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII. Following the war he returned to Akron, Ohio and enlisted in the Akron Fire Department, where, after 30 years of service, he retired with the rank of Captain. An avid hunter, camper, and fisherman, he spent leisure time camping and traveling this country that he fought to keep free. He especially enjoyed traveling with his wife and children. In retirement, Michael worked as a Driver Instructor with AAA and enjoyed spending winters camping and fishing with Lillian and friends in South Florida. Special thanks to the nurses, physicians, social workers, and caregivers of 2 North at the Ohio Veteran's Home in Sandusky for their excellent care throughout Michael's stay in the facility. We are forever indebted to you. Thank you! Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, 10 a.m. at Visitation of Mary Catholic Church in Akron. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery where military honors will also be held. The family will receive friends Sunday, 3 to 5 p.m. at the Anthony Funeral Home Kucko-Anthony-Kertesz Chapel, 1990 S. Main St. in Akron where the Akron Fire Department Last Alarm service will be held at 4:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or to a charity of your choice. (Anthony, Akron, 330-724-1281, www.anthonyfh.com)