Michael Klimchok died on January 21st at the age of 92 after a life well-lived. He was surrounded by his family.

Born on August 30, 1931, to the late Michael and Anna (Maceiko) Klimchok he was a lifelong resident of Plymouth.

Growing up, Michael attended Plymouth schools and was a graduate of Plymouth High School. During his younger years he could be found playing countless hours of baseball and basketball with his friends on Salsburg Street or practicing the trumpet in the school band.

After high school, he enlisted in the United States Army with his friend, Walter. Michael was recruited to play trumpet in the Army Band. But, in 1950, the Korean War forever changed his fate. He served out the remainder of his enlistment as a litter bearer – running onto the battlefield to retrieve injured soldiers and carrying them to safety. His friend, Walter always considered him a hero for his bravery.

In 1957, he married the love of his life Ann Carole Dvoroznak. They raised 6 children together.

In his younger years, Mike worked for Clark Lumber. Later, his carpentry skills led him to work independently remodeling countless houses in the local area, often with his wife by his side.

Upon retiring, Mike combined his love of carpentry and service, spending years carving, painting, and distributing thousands of beautiful wooden crafts to local hospitals, nursing homes, and senior care centers. He loved to stay busy and in the most recent years, was the official pizza box assembler for his son’s pizza shop.

Over his lifetime, Mike attended both Saint Peter and Paul’s Ukrainian Catholic Church and Saint Vincent de Paul Catholic Church (now All Saints Parish) where he was an active member of the church community.

Mike was the true patriarch of the family and was always there when we needed him. He served as repairman, babysitter, and chauffeur. Mike had a gentle way, a quick wit, and a great smile. Oh, and he loved to scratch off those lottery tickets even though he complained when he didn’t get a winner!

Mike was finally reunited with his wife Carol and his daughter Janet. Also preceding him in death was his brother, Daniel, sister, Helen Potera, and son-in-law, Joseph McLaughlin.

He is survived by 5 of his children: Daniel, Diane, Mike (Marquene), Donald (Sue), and Karen (Carl), 10 grandchildren: Joseph, Matthew, Lisa, Keri, Kara, Jason, Christopher, Adam, Michael, and Nicholas, and 4 great-grandchildren: Liyah, Cooper, Carter, and Lilith as well as his beloved dog, Dude. Also surviving is his sister, Anna Brown.

The family would like to thank the Gardens of Wyoming Valley for their excellent care and concern during Mike’s brief stay there. Their kindness to both Mike and his family was top notch and was so appreciated during this tough time. Thank you also to Plymouth Manor for their superb care during this past year.

Throughout his life, Mike was all about giving and helping others. In lieu of flowers, he would love for everyone to do something kind for someone.. a family member, friend, neighbor or a stranger.. something to make someone else smile.

Family and friends may call on Tuesday, January 30, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at All Saint's Parish, Plymouth, and then are invited to remain for a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m.
Interment will be in St. Vincent's Cemetery, Larksville, at a later date.

Arrangements are entrusted to the S.J. Grontkowski Funeral Home, Plymouth.