April 8th, 2024
Michael Kranyak, 70, of Wilmington, DE passed away suddenly on April 3rd in Aston PA.
Mike was born in Chester, PA to the late Joseph and Olga Kranyak. He grew up in Upper Chichester PA, graduating from St. James High School (’71) and Widener University (‘75).
An avid musician, Michael loved playing guitar, bass and saxophone in several bands over his lifetime. His musical endeavors started in the 1960’s with the family band “The Kays” that included our Dad on banjo and the four brothers. Some, but not all, of his other passions were: hosting pool parties for his family and friends, playing golf, following the Phillies and Eagles, and vacationing in Ocean City, MD.
He was employed at DuPont before starting his own business as a videographer, which he did for over 30 years. He also worked part-time for 12 years at Harrah’s Casino in Chester. He retired in 2022.
Michael was a loving son, brother and uncle. He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph Kranyak, Sr., and Olga Kranyak (nee Lesko) and his brother, Joseph Kranyak Jr. He is survived by his brothers, James Kranyak (Jennifer) and John Kranyak (Tanina); nephews Brian Kranyak, Philip Kranyak (Mary Margaret) and Matthew Kranyak, and his nieces Aileen Ambrose (Christopher), and Pamela Kranyak (Benjamin), and his longtime cherished and loving companion, Paula Hewes.
His funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 13th at the Joseph A. Ward Funeral Home 1459 Market St., Linwood, PA. Visitation begins at 11am with a service at noon. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at that time. Donations in his name can be made to the Aston Township Fire Department, 2900 Dutton Mill Rd. Aston, PA 19014
To the Kranyak family,
I was so saddened to hear of the sudden loss of Michael. I worked with him at Harrah’s for many years. He was always such a kind and gentle man, and I enjoyed working with him. He would stop in to visit us after he left sometimes and it was always great to see him. He will be missed by his Harrah’s family. May he rest in eternal peace.
Kim Wilson
To All of Michael’s Loved Ones
Our sincere condolences from San Antonio, Tx.
Michael and his three brothers were like brothers to me in our younger days when all eight of us grew up together.
Wow, you talk about “the good old days”….the Kranyaks & Weindels sure had many fun ones!! y’all know what I’m to talking about: putting on shows for our parents, playing music, pool, baseball, horseshoes, those unforgettable meals our Moms prepared…I could go on & on.
I remember playing in the attic and Michael always wanted to be the Doctor.
Sorry I could not make it home for the services, but know you are in my prayers.
Love to All,
Dee Rose & family
Jim & Jen, Sincere sympathy to the Kranyak family. May God’s love and caring comfort of friends and family carry you through the coming days as you say your goodbyes to your brother Michael. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Dave & Nancy McCaffrey
Mike made a great impression on the Songbirds at the Newark Senior Center in Newark, DE. We were looking forward to sharing more music with him. We didn’t have enough time with him — would have loved more. We were devastated at the news of his death. Our hearts are heavy for his family and Paula.
We send our heartfelt condolences to John & Tanina, their children and the entire Kranyak family. Our hearts are grieving with you. May you all find comfort and hope in the nearness of God at this most difficult time. The Glatfelter Family
Very sad about your loss, I m an acquaintance of Paula Chaga
Family is in my prayers
Thoughts and prayers out to the Kranyak family. 🙏🙏
On behalf of the St. James High School Alumni Association and his 1971 classmates, I extend our deepest sympathies and prayers on your loss. On April 6, 2025, the Alumni Association will remember Michael at their annual Memorial Mass at St. Madeline’s Church in Ridley Park. May he rest in peace!
To the Family
My condolences.
We had just welcomed
Mike into the
Newark Community Band.
May fond memories bring a smile at this difficult time.
RAB