Edward Michael "Mike" Chuto

Edward Michael Chuto, a dedicated family man, accomplished athlete, skilled craftsman, and longtime public servant, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 21, 2026, in Cocoa Beach, Florida, at the age of 76.

Born on November 12, 1949, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, to Albert Edward Chuto and Lois J Parsons Chuto, Mike attended the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), graduating with the Class of 1970. He excelled as a multi-sport athlete, particularly in wrestling and track and field. Competing in the 180-pound weight class, he won individual championships at the Invitational Wrestling Tournament in 1968 and 1969, and contributed significantly to his team's wrestling championship in 1969. In track and field, he helped WPSD secure the Eastern Schools for the Deaf Athletic Association Track Tournament titles in 1968 and 1969, setting school records in shot put and discus-records that remain unbroken today. For his outstanding achievements across sports, he was named the Most Outstanding Athlete in 1968. In 1999, his lasting impact on WPSD athletics was recognized with induction into the Athlete Hall of Fame. After graduation, Mike continued to perform at an elite level when he earned 2nd place in the 198-pound class Free Style Wrestling event at the American Athletic Association of the Deaf (AAAD) Tryouts for the World Games for the Deaf in 1972.

Mike married the love of his life, Mary Beth Noschese, and together they built a life in Florida. After training in the painting shop at WPSD, he launched his own painting business. He took pride in his early work with UPS, embracing the hard work and long hours. Later, as an apprentice and then journeyman construction worker, he thrived on large, challenging projects that took him to major cities across Southern Florida.

In 1984, Mike began his federal civilian service as a temporary overhire at Homestead Air Force Base, becoming a permanent employee in 1989. Following Hurricane Andrew's devastation in the Homestead area, he transferred to Patrick Air Force Base (now Patrick Space Force Base) in 1993, where he served with distinction for 26 years in the 45th Civil Engineering Squadron until his retirement. He excelled in the Sign Program, creating all new street signs during the transition to Space Command, replacing hundreds of traffic control signs, and producing signage for Cape Canaveral Air Station, Malabar Tracking Station, Joint Task Force Honduras, and remote sites in the Middle East. A reliable team player, he contributed to high-visibility projects in the Structures Shop and was regarded as a great asset and good friend to many colleagues.

Beyond his professional life, Mike was a man of diverse passions. He continued painting throughout his life and maintained his home in impeccable condition. He delighted in sailing, traveling, riding his motorcycle and E-bike, and exploring Florida and beyond in his RV.

Mike is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Mary Beth Noschese Chuto; his sister, Darlene Chuto of Sebring; niece Grace Ann Shafer of Sebring, nephew Grant W Laird of Dallas, TX, sister, Cheryll Tallman of Texas, niece Deneen Staggs, and nephew David Cooper; sisters-in-law Jamie Ann Welsh, Kitty Lou Vail, Rosemary Noschese, and Cheryl Noschese; brothers-in-law Chris Noschese, Barri Noschese, John Noschese, Barry Vail, and the late Martin Noschese; and many loving great-nieces and -nephews.

Mike's legacy of perseverance, skill, friendship, and zest for life will endure in the hearts of all who knew him. His family and friends take comfort in the knowledge that his remarkable journey-from championship athlete to steadfast public servant and adventurous spirit-touched so many lives. May he rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf in honor of Mike's lifelong dedication to the school and his contributions to the athletic program.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.