Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

1941 - 2012

BORN

1941

DIED

2012

Michael Demko Obituary

Michael Demko
Aug 18, 1941-Dec 29, 2012
Resident of Los Gatos
Michael Joseph Demko, born in Johnstown, PA, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. He courageously fought a four year battle against cancer.
Mike's inspiration and passion to make the world a better place are clearly visible in the many lives he influenced in his 38 year career as a teacher and principal. Mike started teaching in PA and was selected to spend a year at the American Institute for Research in Palo Alto where he worked with some of the nation's leading educators.
He taught in Union and Cambrian School Districts where he also served as a principal at Cinnabar, Farnham, and Price Middle Schools. He presented many workshops statewide and taught classes at West Valley. Mike loved working with teachers and students. He was a mentor to many.
Kauai, cruises, books, plays, SJSU football games, cards, sports, the Y, traveling, and church were all things he enjoyed.
Mike was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He leaves his wife of 26 years, Judy; son, Bill (Kirsten); daughter Amber; grandchildren Jacqueline and Michael and two sisters, Ann (Joe) in PA and MaryAnn (Ray) in FL.
Per Mike's request, there will be no memorial service. Donations in his name may be sent to the Michael Demko Memorial Fund, %AHUMC, 1200 Blossom Hill Rd, San Jose, CA 95118.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Jose Mercury News/San Mateo County Times on Jan. 5, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Demko

47 Entries

Mary Thang

April 29, 2025

I'm not sure what triggered me to remember Mr. Demko recently but he was the only principal to leave such a lasting impression. I attended Farnham elementary school when he joined as the principal and then later he became the principal at Ida Price middle school also while I was there. He made such an incredible impact on the school starting day 1. The first thing is that he went to each classroom and introduced himself to every student! I never even knew the previous principals other than catching a glimpse of them occasionally. He cordoned off the grass area and didn't allow us to cut across so it could grow beautifully. He set up a basketball tournament during lunch - those were the best memories of my elementary school years!! We saw him nearly every day interacting with the entire school because he was a real principal. I am sure he knows how positively he has impacted so many lives. I'm saddened to learn of his passing and pray for his family who must him so much.

John Shepardson

February 12, 2024

Mr. Demko was my sixth grade teacher at Mirassou School in Los Gatos. He was apparently about 30 years old at the time. He was young and wise beyond his years. He was a wonderful; a force-of-nature teacher. He natured and inspired students. He also wanted class to be safe and conducive to learning. We had Demko Dollars. You could earn them and then at the end of year buy goodies. I was playing back then the stock market with the Demko Dollars! He had a big laugh and smile. I remember we were playing softball and he hit the ball over the fence and into a neighbor's backyard. He was left-handed and strong. He had set up this educational program where specific objectives were to be met. He used positive reinforcement. I only hope the education and caring he provided--and I'll say love--I've passed along sufficiently to be worthy of his gifts.

John Shepardson

Rebekah Stoll

April 20, 2023

Mr. Demko was my principal at Farnham. I believe we arrived at and left Farnham the same years. I was in the class that got to send him off to Ida Price with "The Wind Beneath My Wings." I can remember that day vividly. He really was such an awesome human, with kindness and compassion, he cared for every student. At Price he was my husband's principal and I know that Mr. Demko made a lasting impression on him as well. I think about him often, as my kids now go to Farnham. I feel so fortunate to have known him. Peace and love to you and your family, Mr. Demko.

Rob Guynn

July 31, 2018

My best friend and my mentor, I think of you often and remember the so many great times we had...I am not sure I would of made it through the tough times without your guidence and positive thoughts. You were my family and I do miss you very much.
Thank you for always being there for me.
Hey big guy, all those basketball games, one on one, I let you win, haha!
Robert Guynn
7-31-18

Mike Im

May 18, 2017

saddened to hear he passed, he was the principle at farnham when i attended there as a kid. he made a lasting impression on my life and cherish my memories of him and his patience with me. never had the opportunity to say goodbye when i left the school district between 4th and 5th grade.

Amber Demko

January 1, 2015

http://youtube/ih1945e4q7I
^
This is for You.

I miss you so much Dad...

Kathe Sears

April 22, 2014

Nicole - I worked at Farnham with Mr. Demko and he had a heart of gold and took many boys & girls like you under his wing and loved them all. . . When my brother went to Afganistan to serve in Desert Storm Mr. D took a group of his "boys" and made them his school climate committee - they hung yellow ribbons around the campus, planted flowers, pulled weeds and gained self esteem while doing it! He was a wonderful man who taught me a lot in the years I worked for him. May he rest in peace.

Nicole Werstler

April 21, 2014

Mr. Demko was the principal at Farnham Elementary School while I attended there in the 1980's. He was a wonderful person and I am sad to learn about his passing. His kindness knew no bounds. As a child my home life had abruptly turned bad and I often had outbursts at school. I remember one time being "brought to the principal's office" and sitting down with Mr. Demko. I remember his words so clearly "What are we going to do with you?" It wasn't said with anything but kindness and a true desire to help me fit in. He came up with a special assignment for me that helped me to find a little self worth and to keep me out of trouble. Another time when my brother and I missed our bus, Mr. Demko drove to our home to pick us up in his truck. Several people inspired me over the years and helped me become the person I am today. Mr. Demko's influence, while brief, made a huge impact. I was watching a video of an old Christmas performance and thought to look Mr. Demko up. I am grateful that he was in my life, even if for only a few years.

Amber Demko

August 7, 2013

I miss you so much Dad. I am trying my best to move on. I have been doing good buy I still miss you so much. i think about you all the time. Literally ALL the time.. You were the best Father anyone could EVER ask for. I could not ask for anything more from you... I will always love you.

Dwight Hulse

July 9, 2013

Mr. Demko was truly a loving, caring, and inspirational individual. He was one of the most approachable people I ever knew, and expressed genuine interest in and concern for me, and for so many others. Mr. Demko was one of the reasons I chose a career in Education, and to this day I still strive to emulate his kind and giving way. I have thought of him often throughout my life since being a student at both Farnham Elementary and Ida Price Middle Schools where he was Principal. I actually learned about his passing after having a dream in which I recall he was delivering a difficult message to me and a group of teachers who, in my dream, must have worked for him. I can't recall what the message was, but I was so appreciative of how he delivered it to us that I approached him afterward to thank him and tell him how much I respected him. This dream prompted me to look him up and subsequently learn of the sad news of his passing. Despite the sad nature of the news, however, I was overcome by a rush of very happy memories and positive thoughts. (And what better impression or legacy could a person hope to leave behind than that?!) If I could send one last thought off to Mr. Demko, it would be exactly that sentiment from my dream: one of great thanks and respect for all he was to me, and all he did for me.

And in addition to the thanks and respect, may peace and love be with you and your family, Mr. Demko.

sarah grizard

June 1, 2013

i knew mr. demko more as a principle then a teacher but i know he taught as well.he was one of the best principles i had ever growing up in school and probably my favorite one.i remember one time i got turned around some how walking to price i think i took a left instead of right and got confused.i went to a near by day care called and he came himself to pick me up. that is just one example to show how he cared about his students that they were safe and got to school ok.he helped me get through middle school.he set up where if i went to my classes at the end of the week we did lunch.he cared about each student that they made it to graduation with there class.he was a wonderful principle and mentor.if not for him i don't think i would of made it through middle school.i had a hard time because of all the teasing i hated middle school.i think it's safe to say on his behalf that he believed in no excuses for not being successful if you believe in yourself.i was completely shocked when my friend crystal told me a guy from work who went to price was listing these teachers who passed recently from price or something like that and heard mr. demko's name.i went from shocked to sad.he was a great man and a great principle.because of him i graduated with my class and moved on to high school where i also graduated with more credits then needed.when i was graduating i stopped by the school he was currently working at to hand him a invitation.he sent a card and gift card with a note in the card saying congrats and mentioned he was sorry he would not be able to make it.i'm proud though and honored to say that he was my principle and i feel blessed that he was a part of my life growing up and to say i knew him.he will remain in my heart.i will forever miss him.and to his kids let me say i know how hard this is i lost my dad to non hodgkins lymphoma cancer on my 12th birthday.i miss him everyday my dad but slowly over time it does get better.there will be times you will miss him of course especially the holidays birthdays etc. best thing to do in his honor is rather then be sad when your missing him think of the good times you had with him. the happy funny times you had with him.in doing so also you never can forget your dad because of those good memories to look back on.sometimes thinking about the happy funny times will end up putting a smile on your face and maybe make you giggle making you forget about wanting to be sad.and know that he is always with you watching down upon you.i also lost my mom recently in august 2012 on the 8th so i know very much the pain and sorrow you are feeling.but know that you have the support of family friends and those who had the chance to know him and be inspired by him during this difficult time.i'm sure it has been a long hard year as i know it has for me with my moms passing.but know that over time it will get easier and easier just take things day by day step step by step.my heart thoughts and prayers with you all.may god bless you.rest in peace mr. demko you are and will continue being forever missed.you were the best.

Billy/bill Demko

January 22, 2013

This message was sent to me from Carolyn Ando-Verwilt I thought it would make us smile as we remember my father.

Bill,
I was in your father's 6th grade class at Mirassou Elementary during the 1971-72 school year. He was a very popular teacher; everyone wanted to be in his class. There are 3 memories that stand out for me of my time in your dad's class. The first is how I was lacking in confidence and very shy. One day when we were working on an assignment, he came to my desk, knelt down and asked me if I would feel more comfortable around him if he shaved his mustache. I couldn't believe he cared enough about me to even consider doing it and asking my opinion on it. I of course said no to him, he didn't need to shave his mustache. The second memory is of him coming in from every recess with a basketball in his hand and his tie thrown over his shoulder. The 3rd memory is how he adopted his little boy Billy during that school year. (I hope I am remembering this right.) He was sooo happy. If I am remembering this right, when he brought you home, you were not an infant. I am guessing you were 3 or 4 years old. He talked about bringing you home and giving you a bath and about how tiny your hands were. I am deeply saddened to hear about your father's passing. He was a wonderful man and I have always remembered him fondly, even after all of these years. You are indeed a lucky man to have been raised by Mike Demko.

Bill Demko

January 22, 2013

The hardest thing i have ever had to do happened the morning my father passed As I sat there and listened to my fathers last breaths I wonder was there something that could of been done? Was there something I should of done. How does a man so strong to keep breathing for 11 hours when the doctors said ge wasnt capable of beathing on his own not want to fight to live? How does this tower of strength, integrity and honor who did nothing but serve people lye on this bed with his family by his side. His wife, son, daughter, grand kids. Not want to stand and fight. Or am I all wrong, was his final fight to allow nature to take it course and go peaceful in his decisions peaceful in his last breaths... To me he was always be the wise man always the tower of strength. Please give me half of that strength to just let him go.....I wrote this 20 min before he passed 4:13 am Saturday December 29th 2012 those thoughts still haunt me today. We all lose love ones at some point my wish is we never regret our time with them. We live and love like there is no tomorrow...

Bill Demko

January 21, 2013

We dad it's been 3 weeks and everyday I miss you more. I found myself watching the niners and remembering the games we use to go to in Pittsburgh when the Steelers played the 49ers. I still remember our cross country drives eating cold fried chicken and drinking tang. Both I really hate the taste of. We never complained but wished we could eat real food. Being a single father on teachers pay I'm sure was had for you, but I always had what I needed. I learned so much about life on those trips. The first few we stopped everywhere to see the country it would take us a week to get to Pittsburgh. The last trip took us a day and a half ,well 40 hours. No stopping for sleep because we both drove. As I got older I took my kids on the same cross country drive and laugh how they we so much like me. Hated the first trip could wait for the next. There are so many thing our parents teach us and give us in life somehow we forget tell its to late. I love you dad thanks again for just being you.

January 20, 2013

It is with great sadness that the Farnham community hears this news. Mike was a man with a vision and tremendous leadership skills. He showed us how to build a school and be involved as partners in our children's education. He had the respect and affection of his staff, the parents and the children, is there a greater honor?
Our heartfelt condolences to the Demko family. Thank you for sharing your memories of your Dad.
The Hildreth Family

Best Dad Ever.

January 17, 2013

Best Father Ever.

January 17, 2013

Best Dad Ever.

January 17, 2013

Amber Demko

January 17, 2013

I miss you so much Dad... I love you so much,

Best Father Ever.

January 16, 2013

Best Father Ever.

January 16, 2013

Best Father Ever.

January 16, 2013

Best Father Ever.

January 16, 2013

January 12, 2013

My thoughts and prayer to the family.It was a privilege to assist with his care.
Lynda Todd

S D

January 11, 2013

Mr. Demko was the best principal I ever had in school (I was lucky enough to have him at Ida Price and Farnham). He always had a smile on his face and truly cared about each and every student. I am so thankful to have been able to call him my principal and he definitely made a difference in the lives of many youth. May God bless his family during this difficult time.

Brooke Sandlin

January 11, 2013

Mr. Demko was the best princple ever when I left Farnham and a year latter he followed to Price I was so excited. I am truly sorry for the loss of such a great man, he was the BOMB. I often thought about him and wished my kids had a principle that cared as much as he did.

Bill Gates

January 10, 2013

Mike was a Fantastic Principal, He truly loved those kids. I knew mike for many years and had all three of my kids fallow him from K-8th,. He took care of those who were in need and never faltered. The world has lost a great man of education. Mike thanks for all you have done for my kids and the others who feel the same. Bless the Demko Family and rest in peace Mike.

Valerie

January 10, 2013

Mr. Demko was my sixth grade teacher way back in 1970 at Mirassou School in Los Gatos. I remember how he made each student feel special and valued and created a sense of community in our classroom. He fostered a positive, warm, and safe environment for learning. I cherish my memories of the year that I was lucky to have him as my teacher, and I will never forget him. I am deeply saddened at his passing and my thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time of great loss and grief.

January 9, 2013

There was a time in my life you were my very best friend. You were my mentor at work and in life. There is not a day in my life that a thought of you does not pop into my head. I have so many great memories of the times we spent together. You gave me a home when I had no place to go. You listen to me when I needed advise. You were my father figure when I needed a dad. I am the artist I am because you always inspired to paint well. I am the musician that I am because you put me on a higher level when I played my guitar. I am so sad you are gone but yet so happy you touched my life in so many ways. It is because of you I am the man I am today and I thank you for your friendship and for being my friend. I will never forget you.
Robert Guynn

Kathe Sears

January 9, 2013

Mike Demko hired me in 87-88 as a Admin. Clerk at Farnham and I had the pleasure to work for him for 5 years. Never I have worked for another Principal as passionate as he was in his love and advocacy for children - ALL children. Mike greeted them each day by name with high 5's and taught each student that they were special; then found ways to get them to strive for their personal best. He always took time to recognize good behavior; even taking students out to a special lunch with the Principal at their choice of place - Mike probably ate more McD's than any human should ever have too! The minute the bell rang he would fly out the door to his favorite post; the ball wall where the kids waited in line just to play against him! Mr.Demko loved them as they loved him. Mike stayed in each school 5 years and then would go on to the next challenge. When he left Farnham the students gave him a surprise send off assembly complete with a walk down the red carpet,throne and crowned him "King for the Day", when they sang "You are the wind beneath my wings" there wasn't a dry eye in the cafeteria from parents, staff and students. It was an honor knowing you, Mr. Demko! Rest in peace, Kathe Sears

Maryann Sears

January 9, 2013

Mr. Demko took a chance on me when I was entering the teaching field. I was 18 years old and he hired me to help students in their reading skills. I remember never wanting to let him down because he was such a wonderful man. I am sad to hear he has passed and am praying for his family during this difficult time. He was a bright ray of sunshine in the lives of many and I am so very grateful that he took the time to mentor me and lead by example. Mike Demko was definetly one who radiated love for all people. Especially children. RIP Mr. D

Bill Demko

January 8, 2013

I know that my fathers wishes was for no memorial service and I will honor his request the best i know how but I would like the chance to let out all of this so we can move on. To you as his friends and to our family. Michael Joseph Demko born in a small coal miners town where men where men and woman held the family together. Somehow held his values as his strength and salvation. I was lucky enough to be adopted by this man because if his desire to carry on the Demko name. As I grew up I never understood why my dad was the man he was. So much honor respect discipline. I eventually had children of my own and realized I wasn't half the man my father was. They always say the older you get the wiser you are luckily I figured that out sooner than later. Over the past few years I began to understand my father I tried daily to model myself around him to raise my children the way he would. To do everything for anyone just because I cared. As I sat by his side and honored his request to just pass in peace I struggled on how this rock solid man could say his goodbyes to each of his family one by one how he could hold my son and daughter and say goodbye. And not give in to our request to fight on. I realize his fight was very difficult and I'm sure painful but not once did he complain. As the time passed that evening we watched his body due what his mind had decided it didn't want to do. For the next 12 hours he slept and breathed like the man he always was strong and silent We sat as a family and told stories while we new he was probably listening in peace with himself. WE laughed we cried but as his last breath left his chest we ultimately smiled admired again this mans wisdom even in death. To go on his terms and to go with honor, respect, dignity and valor. Thank you again dad for all you gave us in life and in death.

Pat Spencer

January 8, 2013

Inspirational, enthusiastic,
motivating,caring,creative, supportive are just a few attributes of this giant of a man who as principal of Farnham Elementary School created a Camelot for the staff, students and parents. He will always remain in the hearts of all he touched...and there were so many. Judy, may you and all your family take comfort in and celebrate a life well lived.

January 7, 2013

I didn't know Mike personally, but have known Judy for years. I am sure that he was a wonderful man and will be missed. The family is in my thoughts and prayers. Marlene McLaurin

Renee Martinez

January 6, 2013

RIP Mr.Demko. He was such a great man. I remember walking through the halls of price and Mr. Demko always greeting everyone.

Darlene Gentry - Jackson

January 6, 2013

RIP Mr. Demko. You will be greatly missed by all of the lives you have influenced and been a part of. You were my favorite principle when I went to Ida Price in '92 & '93. May the Lord bless you and your loved ones.

Darlene Gentry-Jackson

January 6, 2013

RIP Mr. Demko. You were an inspirational role model to look up to and always lit up the place. I went to Ida Price while you were principle there in '92 & '93. You are the best principle I have ever had! May the Lord bless you and your loved ones!

Amy Maxwell (Quirk)

January 6, 2013

May he rest in peace. Mr. Demko was my principle through elementary and middle school and the best principle any school could ever have. I will never forget going to lunches with him to chucke cheese. He was always such a cheerful guy. My thoughts go out to his family and friends.

Krystal

January 6, 2013

He was my principle at Price from 1996-99. He was always in such great spirits and always willing to help. His family must feel very blessed to of had such a wonderful soul in their lives.

leeta

January 6, 2013

Thank you for being there through the tumultuous years of middle school. My sincere condolences to Mr Demko's family.

Jen Kline

January 6, 2013

May Mr. Demko rest in peace. He was an excellent principal at Farnham and Ida Price. He was one of my favorite people at those times. I always felt like I was talking to a friend and he made me feel at home. Sad to hear such an amazing man passed. He will be missed.

Crystal Renshaw

January 6, 2013

RIP Mr. Demko. Thank you for your smile and positive interaction with all of your students. You will be remembered as one of the coolest and dearest Principals. God bless you and your family.

benjamin custodia

January 6, 2013

He was so positive, the best principal i ever had. Im very thankful to have him in my life.

Eden

January 6, 2013

RIP Mr. Demko. We'll never forget you as our awesome, and wonderful principle at Farnham and Price. You are unforgettable! So many people remember your amazing spirit, and smile. God bless you and God bless your family during this time.

Ceci Demko

January 6, 2013

A man full of spirit and encouragement. He brings life and energy to those around him. I am sadden but such a great lost but privileged to have shared many pinnacle moments with this great spirit and model of a man. Thank you for the opportunity in time and I too miss him very much. I will always respect Mike Demko.

Cathy McDermott

January 6, 2013

Mr. Demko was my favorite teacher. He was my 6th grade teacher and I remember his encouragement and life lessons.

steve risko

January 5, 2013

Judy-My nparents were sp fond of you and Mike. My thoughts are with you at this time.

Showing 1 - 47 of 47 results