Mike McKarski, 96, of Clarendon, Pa., passed away on Sunday, December 2, 2012 in Erie, Pa.
Mr. McKarski was born November 13, 1916, in Clarendon, Pa. He served in the US Army from 1943 to 1946 where he received multiple medals and ribbons, including four Bronze Stars with active service in the Pacific Arena during the WWII. He was a member of the St. Anthony's Roman Catholic Church in Sheffield, Pa and a member of the Clarendon VFW, Kalfus Rod & Gun Club, Polaski Foundation, and a founding/lifetime member of the Farnsworth Fish Hatchery. He had been an active member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union, where he was a union representative. He was instrumental in the construction of many facilities in the area including the Warren State Hospital, additions to the Warren General Hospital, and many public schools. He was known for his dedication to detail and safety with over 40 years in the trades without an injury resulting in loss time. He was an avid outdoorsman, where his presence was known by anyone who frequented the Farnsworth area.
He is survived by three sons, Michael F. McKarski, Sheffield, Pa., Patrick McKarski, Brownsburg, IN, and Edward J. McKarski, Bethlehem, Pa., seven grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Kathleen Murphy McKarski; and two sisters, Betty Engle and Mary Deschner; and his constant companion, Princess.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 10, 2012 at St. Anthony's Roman Catholic Church, Sheffield, PA, at 11:00 a.m., with The Rev. Fr. John Neff, Celebrant.
In lieu of flowers contributions in Mike's memory may be made to St. Anthony's Roman Catholic Church.
The Peterson-Blick Funeral Home, Inc., has been entrusted with arrangements.
