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Michael Kaniuk Obituary
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Born in Florynka, Poland to Daniel and Katarzyna (née Hawron) Kaniuk, Michael was raised in Poland before immigrating to the United States in April of 1964. He first settled in Clifton, then the Singac section of Little Falls, and ultimately made Cedar Grove his home in 1974. For 20 years, Michael worked for Arvey in Cedar Grove before retiring. A devoted member of St. John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Church, he gave generously of his time, whether helping with maintenance or joining in the joyful tradition of making pierogies for the church picnic. In his younger years, while serving in the Polish Army, Michael was an accomplished boxer. Outside of work and church, he found joy visiting Atlantic City, watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, tending his garden (especially his prized Jersey tomatoes), and spending time with his family, particularly his beloved grandchildren. Known for his natural mechanical skill, he enjoyed taking things apart, understanding how they worked, and often creating his own versions.
Michael was predeceased by his parents and his siblings, Maria Dziadyk, Mychalina Lohaza, and Wasyl Kaniuk. He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Anna (née Pruksa) Kaniuk; his loving children, Andrew Kaniuk and his wife Lori, and Maria Gerckens and her husband Eric; his cherished grandchildren, Rachel and Julia Kaniuk, and Nicole Gerckens. Surviors include nieces and nephews.
The family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, Aug. 15, 2025 from 4-8 p.m. at Gaita Memorial Home, 154 Newark Pompton Turnpike, Little Falls. Parastas will be offered at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Services will take place on Saturday, Aug.16 at 9:45 a.m. at St. John the Baptist R.O. Church, Little Falls. Kindly meet directly at the church. Interment will follow at E. Ridgelawn Cemetery, Clifton, N.J. Memories and condolences may be shared at gaitamh.com.
In lieu of flowers donations in Michael's memory may be made to a charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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154 Newark Pompton Tpke, Little Falls, NJ 07424
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