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Rev. Michael "Fr. Mike" PUTICH OFM

Rev. Michael "Fr. Mike" PUTICH OFM obituary, Williamsville, Ny

Michael PUTICH Obituary

PUTICH - Rev. Michael OFM "Fr. Mike" September 16, 2014. A Franciscan Friar for 51 years, Chaplain and member of the Palliative Care consult team at the Buffalo VA Medical Center. Beloved son of the late Mary Jane and Michael F. Putich; brother of Dolores Connors, Kathleen (Kenneth) Kraft and Thomas Putich; loving uncle of Therese (Robert) Seward, Paula Connors Gil, Michael E. (Robin) Connors, DC Wolfe, Kenneth (Amy) Kraft, Elizabeth (James) Brown; also survived by many great nieces, great nephews and cousins. Friars and family will be present Friday 4-7 PM at the PIETSZAK FUNERAL HOME, 2400 William St. (near Harlem). Relatives and friends are invited to assemble Saturday at St. Martin of Tours Parish (1140 Abbott Road, 14220) from 9:30 to 10:30 AM for a gathering prior to a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 AM. Burial will be held at St. Bonaventure Cemetery, Friars Plot Saturday at 2 PM. Flowers gratefully declined, donations may be made to the Veterans Hospital Hospice Program or the Catholic Committee on Scouting, in Buffalo. Online condolences at www.Pietszak.com.
Published by Buffalo News from Sep. 17 to Sep. 18, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael PUTICH

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Cyndy Fine

September 11, 2020

Still remember his smile and laugh!

Brian Kerwin

September 11, 2020

Fr Mike was a great friend, performed last rights on my parents, was there whenever you needed him to provide support. God Bless you Fr Mike.

Brian Kerwin

September 11, 2019

Fr Mike was such a great guy, he accepted my invite to be the chaplain at Scout camp. He was always there for me during my parents last days on earth, he came when I called and gave them their last rites.
He truly was a great priest, and role model for all.

Peter Taberski

October 9, 2014

My jaw dropped, my heart sank, and tears filled my Eyes. Mike was like my big brother when I arrived in Washington. You know, the Buffalo connection is a strong one. He guided and advised me as I struggled though my first year of Philosophy studies. He taught me how to study and encouraged me for two years. He had a warm smile and a great laugh. After all these years, I am still saddened by his passing, but I know as a Friar of faith, he is enjoying his reward. Peace Michael

October 6, 2014

Miss you!

Eleanor

September 29, 2014

Fr. Mike,

I missed you when you left St.Gregs. You actually made Reconciliation an enjoyable experience. May you rest in peace.

Maria Thornton McClain

September 28, 2014

Dear Dolores, Kathy and Tommy,
Mary Lou called last Fri.to tell me that Mike had died. I've sent the message on to my brother, Bill, and cousin, Maureen Reilly Oxelson. I've read the messages in the Bflo News and the funeral home. I like what I saw about the compassionate person with a good sense of humor he became, or was all along. My condolences to you.
Maria

Dawn Rousseau

September 26, 2014

Father Mike married my husband and I almost 26 years ago. We were young and a little nervous. His sense of humor put us at ease immediately, and he made our wedding ceremony fun, funny and memorable. He will be missed. Dawn & Paul Rouseau

Just a Neighbor

September 23, 2014

He will be missed in the halls @ Sturbridge.

Terrence M Vaughan

September 22, 2014

Although life's vicissitudes separated us for many years, Fr Mike and I spent 12 years together as friends, classmates and Franciscan brothers. We entered the seminary in Callicoon, NY together on September 8, 1956 in a class of over thirty and remained the only two from that original class to be ordained September 7, 1968. I am saddened to have learned of his death and the end of his joyful Franciscan ministry, but rejoice, confident that he is with the Lord he served so well and faithfully. With love and deepest sympathy to his family, friends and Franciscan brothers,

Terrence M (Denis) Vaughan

Walt Kirchofer

September 21, 2014

Mike and I were good friends and graduated together from eight grade at St. Martin's in South Buffalo. Although we haven't seen each other since graduation, I often wondered how he was doing in his vocation. After reading some of the remembrances, I see that continued to have the same fun loving personality he had as an eight grader. My condolences to his family. May Fr. Mike rest in peace.

Cheryl Hoisek Zablonski

September 20, 2014

Father Mickey was the kindest,most compassionate, funniest man I ever knew. When my mom passed and then my dad he was right there to console us. When he walked into the wake his presence filled the room and I thought,"okay, it'll be okay, we'll get through this." A familiar face to guide us in our sadness,his smile and gentle way eased our anxiety.So even though I saw him at funerals and the long ago family picnics I will miss him dearly knowing that he'll never be there again, except in spirit. Rest in peace. Till we meet again

Fr. Marcellus Fernandez

September 19, 2014

I am now a retired Boise Diocese diocesan priest, but I was Mike's classmate since our days in Callicoon until our ordination in 1968. All along and although I became a diocesan priest in 1986, Mike and I were very good friends. I will miss him. I am looking forward to see how he now plays hockey in heaven. May he rest in peace, and blessings to the family, particularly Dolly and Tommy (if they remember me)

Fr. Marcellus

mary campanile

September 19, 2014

Dearest family of Fr.Mike, I am so sad of Fr. Mikes passing.I will miss him very much.God blessed us with a great person.

Deb Medakovich

September 19, 2014

What a testament all of these entries are to father mike. His life truly made a difference to all he came in contact with. He will be remembered especially for helping others and His one liners....: "do you know how good you are'. '"you rock" and his philosophizing during meetings,His smile, his laugh and the quick dashes for a smoke where he would have great conversations with the guys. He knew how to show his human side to all and really has left an impression on us all and a goal to always keep trying to do the best. God bless you my friend you are one of a kind and will be missed.

Bill Thornton

September 19, 2014

A kind warm hearted individual who could relate to the lives we were expected to live....God Bless ...I am glad to have known him and call him friend

Cathy Kraft

September 18, 2014

There are so many memories that I have of Mickey but most of all was his willingness to help, his wonderful smile and his contagious laugh. God received another Angel when Mickey passed and we are all much better for having him in our lives. My thoughts,prayers and love go out to all who are hurting at this time. God bless you Mickey and thank you for all you have done for all of us. Love you dearly.

Kathy and Greg Michalek

September 18, 2014

On behalf of my parents, Bob and Helen Levulis, (Mickey was Helen's cousin) my siblings, Robert, Cheryl and Donald, I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the Putich family. Mickey was a shining light at many of the family gatherings, weddings and even funerals. This past June dad was in VA respite. At that time mom and dad were celebrating their 60th anniversary and Mickey arranged for us to meet at the chapel.He renewed their wedding vows! What a wonderful day it was! We are grateful and blessed to have had him with us at so many occasions. We will miss you...May you rest in peace faithful servant.

Wayne Drzymala

September 18, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with Fr. Mike's family, may he rest in peace. Fr. Mike was a great mentor for many of us. He always kept us on track, leaving us with many words of wisdom for our future after Timon.
Wayne Drzymala class of "74"

Karen Y

September 18, 2014

Your brother was a great comfort to my brother Gary while he was at the VA in the ICU. Father Mike was also caring to my Mom and the rest of our family at a difficult time. He was a wonderful Man of God. He is now probably telling one of his jokes to my brother!

Dr. Karin Provost

September 18, 2014

Father Mike had the uncanny ability to arrive in the ICU every time we needed him to support a family or the staff. He was ever present, and his loss has been felt very deeply. He will live on through the memories of every patient , staff and family member whose life he touched. I know of no one else who can wear Birkenstocks in -20 degree weather with 12 inches of snow without getting cold, wet feet. He was one of a kind, in every way.

Carol Harrington

September 18, 2014

Father Mike was a beacon of light in a time of need. My brother, Doug, passed away on August 30 at the VA Hospice Care Facility. Father Mike was there giving him strength, support, humor, kindness, and the love of God. Although I only knew him for a short time, I truly felt like a close friend. My family and especially Doug was blessed with his presence.

September 18, 2014

Thank you Father Mike for helping our family through a very difficult time at the VA. You are in our prayers. Clare Nienhaus

Dan Kluge '74

September 18, 2014

Condolences to the Putich family and friends of Fr. Mike on his passing - he will be missed. A great teacher, friend and mentor. One of Timon's finest.

FORTIS IN FIDE Class of 1980.

James OSullivan

September 18, 2014

So sad to hear that Father Mike has passed on, He was one of my favorites at Timon and he is what made the lagacy at Timon memorable for 100's if not thousands of young men who passed through it's doors. Rest in Peace Father Mike - you earned it!

September 18, 2014

Rest in peace Father Mike, if anyone could inspire us to spell a country's name correctly it was you (Timon - European Studies). I am sure the discipline you installed in us is a big part of the success many Timon graduates have enjoyed.
Pat Mahoney , Class of 1981

Laura Hafner

September 18, 2014

I was shocked to hear of Fr. Mike's passing. My brother, (John Beyer Class of 86) had Fr. Mike as teacher at Bishop Timon High School, and Fr. Mike was the celebrant at my brother's funeral Mass (Sept 21, 2006). Thank you Fr. Mike for assisting us at one of our darkest moments as a family as we mourned the loss of my brother. You will be truly missed. My condolences to your family!

September 18, 2014

ON BEHALF OF THE DEXTER FAMILY,(SANDY PUTICH) WE EXTEND OF CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY. COUSIN MICKEY TOUCHED OUR LIVES VERY DEEPLY WITH HIS KINDNESS, CARING AND LAUGHTER. THE TIME WE SPENT WITH MICHEY WAS FILLED WITH SUNSHINE.NOW GOD IS HOLDING HIM IN THE PALM OF HIS HAND.

Cyndy Fine

September 18, 2014

To the Kraft and Putich family: Mickey, as he was fondly known by my family never failed to bring a smile to your face. He was kind, compassionate, honest, but most of all, one of those people who truly lived life to it's fullest. I still remember his laugh- which came often! He is missed, but we know that he is helpling those in heaven now. May he rest in peace, now that his work on earth is done. Love you all!

David State

September 18, 2014

Father Mike was an outstanding mentor to many of us at Bishop Timon High School. He will be truly missed. God bless him and his family.

Brian English

September 18, 2014

My condolences to Fr. Mike's family. He made hockey practice at 5:30 am more fun than it should have been at that hour. His smile, encouragement, and humor has never been forgotten. I was never lucky enough to have him as a teacher, but blessed to have him as a hockey coach. RIP. Brian English, class of '82.

Michael Faliero

September 17, 2014

What a Great Man. My family could not thank him enough for all he has done. Rest In Peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family!

Father Mike taking pics St. Martin's lawn fete

Michael Faliero

September 17, 2014

Joanie Murray-Dolan

September 17, 2014

Father Mike. Will never forget your Star Wars Speech at my Wedding. You are and always will be a classic. RIP

Fr.Zarko Mula

September 17, 2014

My greatest sympathy to the family of Fr.Mike and his friars.

Chris Swiatek

September 17, 2014

Thank you Fr Mike for all you did for me at BTHS, rest in peace. Class of 85'

Ursie Bankhead

September 17, 2014

To the family of Fr. Mike- Thank you for sharing him with so many of us. I'm truly already missing him. He went the extra mile for others, he was there for both laughter and a conspiring whisper. He always had open arms for those who needed him. We are a bit lessened by his departure from this world. May you all be at peace.

September 17, 2014

Fr. Mike thank you for everything and for always making me feel welcome at church, we truly missed you when you left. Thanks for always making everyone feel special..you had that greatness! Sincerely Russ, Michelle and Nicolette

Lisa Nemmer

September 17, 2014

Dear Putich Family,
Saddened to hear of the loss of your beloved Michael...May the days ahead find you surrounded in loving support & comforted by many hugs....Fr.Mike was a genuine as they come...there will never be another like him! What the earth will be sadly losing the Heavens are greatly rejoicing for! An Angel to make God laugh! God rest your soul Michael! Peace, The Nemmer Family

Fr. Mike giving mass at Camp Scouthaven - July 2014

Michael Wesolowski

September 17, 2014

Attending mass at any scouting event in the future will never be the same. Your compassion, devotion to scouting, and your soft spoken baritone homilies will never be forgotten. God bless you Fr. Mike.

Kate Bush

September 17, 2014

Father Mike your presence will be missed greatly by all the staff, patients, and their families here at the VA and the hospice unit 9A. You always made everyone around you feel at ease and brought a smile to all. Rest in peace, pleasure to have had the chance to meet and work with you.
Kate 9A team

Al Monaco '79

September 17, 2014

Father Mike, You were a great teacher, mentor, inspiration,and most of all friend rest in peace.

Michael Sutton

September 17, 2014

Rest in Peace Fr. Mike,
Mike Sutton Timon Class of 82

Cindy Kush

September 17, 2014

Fr. Mike,
I am happy I got the pleasure of meeting you during your Pastoral leadership at St Clare. You always had such kind words of encouragement for me..I will deeply miss you..Prayers to your family..

Dave Dengos

September 17, 2014

Condolences to the family of Fr. Mike. He was one of my teachers at Bishop Timon in the '70's and was a good man. May he rest in peace.

September 17, 2014

Dolly, Kathy, and Thomas,
I was saddened to read of Fr. Mike's passing. He was a wonderful man who dedicated his life to God and those who needed his help. May he rest in peace. Please know you all will be in my thoughts and prayers as you mourn his loss. My deepest sympathies, Sue Cleary

Maureen McNamara

September 17, 2014

Father Mikey, you were truly a gift from God-always going out of your way to accommodate others in their time of need. You will be missed. My condolences to the Putich family-my heart goes out to you.

Joan Behlmaier

September 17, 2014

Dear Fr. Mike,
Our family has many happy memories of you - you officiated at many of our family religious services - you were the first person we thought of to do so. And the happy Timon hockey memories, we all sure had fun. Although we haven't seen much of you lately, we will miss you. God bless you and may you rest in wonderful peace.

September 17, 2014

His kindness, his sense of humor, his smile and his never ending care and consideration to the patients, family and VA employees - will be forever missed, but never forgotten. Rest in Peace Padre. Cancer Registry Manager

Father Mike at Camp Schoellkopf July 2014

Russell Etzenhouser

September 17, 2014

Russell Etzenhouser

September 17, 2014

Father Mike,
You were a wonderful guide to many Scouts of Western New York. We will miss you.

Larry Connors

September 17, 2014

R.I.P. Fr Mike .You were my favorite teacher at Timon.
Larry Connors class of 88

Sue Engel

September 17, 2014

A very loved man who always loved everyone. Peace my friend.

September 17, 2014

Father Mike,

Thank You for you dedication to the students at Timon. You were a dedicated servant. May you Rest In Peace.

Chris Panek
Class Of 84

Michael

September 17, 2014

GBJC

Cheryl Kennedy

September 17, 2014

On behalf of the Kennedy family (Carolyn Putich) I extend our condolences to the family. My siblings and I have fond memories of him from family picnics. Prayers to all of you and God bless to cousin Mickey.

Brian Kerwin

September 17, 2014

Fr.Mike...a good friend, was there for my family at the end of life for my Mother and Dad. I met him several years ago saying mass at Camp Schoellkopf and saw how he engaged the youth and adults...the GNFC was looking for a new chaplain for the Catholic Cmte...he accepted and has remained with us ever since. He will be sorely missed, his humor is now for those in heaven to enjoy!

The VA OR Team

John Kutianski

September 17, 2014

Father Mike,
You have been a good friend and co-worker for many years. You will be truly missed. May God bless you and take you, eternally in his loving arms.

Carrie

September 17, 2014

Father Mike was an inspiration to us all. He was kind and caring and always made the Veterans and staff cheerful. He had a way of making everyone laugh. He will be greatly missed at the Buffalo VA. 8D staff

Joseph K Quinn Sr

September 17, 2014

RIP Fr Mike, you were always a pleasure to be around.

Joe Wright

September 17, 2014

I was a student of Father Mike's at Timon in the '70s. Always made things interesting and led lively debates back in the day. Condolences to the Putich family and the Franciscan community.

September 17, 2014

Fr. Mike, your ministry has been a blessing to so many. May God Bless you to eternal rest. Ken Knox, Pack 431, Cub Scouts

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