Michael T Gwardyak

Born and raised in Mt. Vernon, Michael was frequently seen walking about town hand in hand with his wife of 52 years, Marian. He was employed as a custodian in the Mt. Vernon School System, before leaving due to an injury.

For many years he was a member of the VFW. He was decorated veteran, having served three tours in Vietnam. Wounded twice in combat, Michael received a Purple Heart, and was awarded a Bronze Star, and a Silver Star.  

He was proud to find his name engraved on a monument honoring Capt. John W. Ripley and “Ripley’s Raiders”, the 428 members of Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Division, 3rd Marines. The monument stands in Semper Fidelis Memorial Park, part of the National Marine Museum in Virginia.

It was not unusual in recent years for a family member to get a call from a veteran looking to find Mike and thank him for saving their life so many years ago.

Michael was an absolute storehouse of trivia and oddball facts. He loved going to the NY Botanical Garden and Bronx Zoo with his family. He was a HUGE Rangers fan and hadn’t missed a game in a decade. He enjoyed playing darts, doing magic tricks, watching movies, painting, photography, complaining about politicians, and eating his daughter’s cooking.

He is predeceased by his parents Zygmunt (John) Gwardyak & Olga (Alice) Gwardyak as well as his brother Gregory, sister Barbara and his son Michael-John.

He leaves behind his wife, Marian, daughter Amanda (Amy), son Joseph, two grandchildren Violet and Xavier, as well as his sister Susan and brother in law John Emmetsberger and brother John Gwardyak and sister in law, Karen Zambelli.

He will be deeply missed. A memorial is planned for him in the fall.

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