Michael Smilack

Michael Smilack was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. After graduating from high school, Michael served in the Air Force. In 1966 Michael began working in computers (IT) which he did for 45 years. While he worked, raised a family, and being active in the community, Michael completed his BA at the age of 56. After retirement, he sold insurance for a couple years, then was an administrator at Mt. Freedom synagogue for about 3 years and finally sold suits at JC Penney's (Rockaway, NJ) for 10 years. He loved hearing why someone needed a suit, helping them find one in a few minutes and, if they wanted to, helping them pick out a shirt and a tie. Men would come into the store and ask if "the old man" was working and if not, they would come back when he was there. He developed a loyal clientele. He would have continued working except a truck hit his car head-on
6 ½ years ago and he never recovered.
Michael was a member of Temple Shalom, Succasunna, NJ, for 35 years, Michael sang in several choirs including the Temple Shalom choir and Kol Dodi choir and had a beautiful bass voice. His favorite pastimes were barbecuing and making pizza and playing card and board games in person and on his tablet. He and his cat, Alex, were inseparable companions.
Michael is remembered mostly for his sense of humor and smile and his competitive nature when playing games.
Michael Smilack, 85, died at home in Succasunna, NJ, on April 14, 2024. Michael is survived by his wife of 56 years, Virginia Smilack, and three children, 2 grandchildren, and a brother, all of whom will dearly miss him.
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