Michael Vanchiere

Feb 11, 1939 to July 7, 2014

Michael Vanchiere passed away after a long illness on July 7, 2014.

Michael was a Cold War veteran. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in the late 1950's. His job was to protect our airspace from incoming enemy aircraft. Assigned to Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota, Michael's unit was assigned to maintain radar surveillance of our northern border and to ensure that interceptors would be scrambled should the need arise.

After honorably serving his four year enlistment, he left the Air Force and eventually was hired by the New York City Transit Authority. In time Michael became a master mechanic of Diesel engines and large bus frames and suspension and became a supervisor.

In the 1970's Michael re-enlisted into the New York Air National Guard's 152nd Air Control Squadron in Roslyn, NY. This job utilized the skills Michael learned in the Air Force regarding command and control of airspace against incoming enemy aircraft.

As a friend Michael was totally reliable and completely trustworthy. If he gave his word there would never be any doubt that he would be counted on. His sense of humor was clever and frequently hilarious. He was a loyal member of his local American Legion post, and believed that the United States was the best country in the world.

Michael was a practicing Catholic and frequently attended Mass at his local parish. He was also diligent in his health care and despite health challenges, he ate a healthy diet and did exercises every day.

The main priorities in his life, however were his children. In the late 1970's Michael eventually left the Air National Guard to spend more time with his son and daughter. He watched both of them marry and have children.

Michael is survived by his daughter Denise and son Michael Vanchiere.

Michael's son, had a son, Tyler, and a daughter, Hannah.

Michael's daughter Denise married James McGarry and they had a daughter Grayce and a son, Hayden.

Michael also had a stepdaughter Audrey, the mother of Brooke.

Michael dearly loved all of his grandchildren and would visit or babysit whenever there was an opportunity. He knew they were his legacy and he was very proud of them.