Michael J. Milkanin, Jr., 79, of Davenport, FL, passed away on Monday, October 4th, 2021, at Advent Care, Heart of Florida Hospital, Davenport, FL. He was born in Duryea, Pennsylvania on November 3, 1941. He was the son of the late Michael J. Milkanin, Sr. and Bertha Liput Milkanin.
He was a graduate of Pittston High School in 1959 where he was known for being an outstanding football and basketball player.
In 1964, he was called to serve his country due to the Vietnam conflict and became a member of the United States Army. During his time in service, he married his sweetheart, Mary Jayne (Kunigiel) Milkanin.
Building on his military police experience, he worked as store detective for several years. In 1968, he became the owner and operator of Milkanin Detective Agency until retiring several years ago. As an entrepreneur, he built his business and had many multiple ventures. In addition, he was appointed to the United States Selective Service Board by President Ronald Reagan. The appointment was for twenty years in which he never missed a meeting. He was also a proud member of the Duryea American Legion, Post 585.
Michael was a faithful and loyal a member of St. Mary’s Polish National Catholic Church, Duryea,
Pennsylvania, where he also served on the Board of Directors. He worked tirelessly for his Church and the Glory of God for many years! Michael was a gentle giant and would always lend a helping hand especially to the needy.
Michael continued his passion for sports by being the first basketball coach at St. John the Baptist Church, Pittston, Pennsylvania. There was never a fall Saturday that Penn State football was not being watched or listened and it continued on Sunday watching the Pittsburg Steelers. He continued his support throughout every season following the Pittsburg Penguins and the Pittsburg Pirates. And by his side were his fur-companions first Pierre-ski and then Mr. Nittany.
Preceding him in death were his parents Michael and Bertha Milkanin. his brother John M. Milkanin, St. Peters, MO, and his two sons Michael J. Milkanin, III and Marc Jonathan Milkanin.
Surviving is his loving and adoring wife of 56 years, Mary Jayne; his son, Brian Keith Milkanin and his wife Margaret Milkanin; and daughter, Tretha Milkanin Chromey and her husband Joseph S. Chromey.
A very special love of his life are his two grandchildren, Joseph Michael Chromey, Specialist U.S. Army, and Olivia Marie Chromey. His grandchildren were his world that only devoted and caring grandparents understand. In his eyes, the sun rose and set on them.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the viewing, which will be held on Sunday, October 10, 2021, from 5-7pm, at Kiesinger Funeral Services, Inc., 255 McAlpine St., Duryea, Penna.
The funeral mass will be held on Monday, October 11, 2021, at 10am, at St. Stanislaus Polish National Catholic Cathedral, 519 E. Locust St., Scranton, Penna with the Reverend Walter Placek officiating. Seated in the Sanctuary will be the Very Reverend William C. Chromey.
Interment will take place immediately following the mass with military honors at St. Stanislaus Cemetery, Kane Street, Scranton, (Minooka Section), Penna.
Those attending the funeral are asked to go directly to the church and request that attendees use their judgement with regard to COVID-19 precautions.