Mike Iwanek

IWANEK, Mike

Passed away at home on February 8, 2007 in Roseville, California at the age of 87. Mike was born in Sokolow, Poland on November 8, 1919 to Jozef and Marta Iwanek. He was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Anna, son Michael, brother Stefan, and sisters Regina, Jezierska, Janina and Wanda. He is survived by his daughters Rita Willard and Gina Munday of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada and his son Jim of Citrus Heights, California, as well as numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mike's journey began in a small town in Poland near Warsaw. After attending school Mike joined the Polish Army. At the beginning of World War II he was captured by the Russian Army and later released and sent home when the Polish Army was disbanded. Soon therafter for unknown reasons he was arrested by the Gestopo and declared a political prisoner. After being forced to sign a confession he was sent to prison and later to the first of many concentration camps including Auschwitz, Buchenwald and Wernigerode. Many times he faced death yet, with hard work and pure luck he was somehow able to survive his five years in captivity. After the war he rejoined the Polish Army and obtained the rank of Staff Sergeant. While stationed with his detachment at an American base in Germany, he met his future wife Anna. In 1947 with the hope of a better future for himself and his family, Mike immigrated to Canada. Life was very difficult, however he worked tirelessly and eventually sent for his family to join him in Montreal. In 1958 with the promise of a new job he left Canada and settled in Santa Barbara, California. He worked for many years as a painting supervisor for a local painting contractor. Mike retired in 1984 and moved with his wife Anna to Roseville, California. Mike was a survivor, with values and integrity rarely seen in today's society. He overcame overwhelming hardships and flourished in Canada and the United States due to a strong work ethic and his belief in the Lord. A true gentleman, he will be greatly missed. Mike's family wishes to express gratitude to Mercy Hospice, the many physicians, nurses and supporting staff at Mercy San Juan Hospital and his physician, Jamshid Faraji, MD. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2007 at 1pm at Reichert's Funeral Chapel, 7320 Auburn Blvd., Citrus Heights, CA 916-729-2229.