Michael Progar, 56, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, in Canonsburg Hospital.
He was born August. 13, 1966, in Canonsburg, the son of the late Louis and Dolores M. “Dolly” Raciborski Progar Sr.
Michael was larger than life, and many referred to him as a gentle giant. Having lived his entire life in Strabane, he could often be seen at the SNPJ Lodge 138 where he was a life-long member. They will certainly need to adjust their Bud Light orders moving forward.
He was also a member of the Canonsburg Sportsman's Association.
After graduating from Canon-McMillan High School in 1984, Michael enlisted in the Navy. He went to Hull Maintenance Technician A School. He served in multiple locations until 1988 and kept in touch with his Navy brothers regularly. He earned a Sea Service Deployment ribbon and a Navy Achievement Medal and served on the USS Waddell.
He was an HVAC installer at McKean Plumbing and Heating for more than 20 years.
In the summers, you could find Michael at the SNPJ Recreation Center, where he had a trailer. He loved going on golf cart rides, hanging out at the Tiki Bar, the Gostilna and just spending time with friends. That's where he met the love of his life, Amanda Stincic, who he married on Aug. 24, 2019. While it took Michael and Amanda longer to find each other than they would have liked, they certainly packed a lot of love and adventure into their short years together.
Michael played Balina in Lodge 138's league. He loved to hang out with family, cook – including his famous stuffed green beans – and he loved to joke.
Michael always had a smile on his face, and he was a wonderful husband, family member and friend to so many.
Left behind to cherish his memory, in addition to his wife, are his in-laws, Maureen and Edward Stincic, David and Rachelle Schlunt, and niece Lilly Schlunt, nephew Patrick (Brittany) McGeever, great nephews Patrick and Wyatt. And many friends.
With his passing, Michael was reunited with his parents and his brother, Louis Progar Jr. in heaven, perhaps giving new meaning to the polka "In Heaven There is No Beer." He was the last of his immediate family.
Friends and family are welcome from 2pm until 8 pm Sunday, April 16, 2023, in SALANDRA FUNERAL and CREMATION SERVICES, INC. Joseph P. Salandra LFD owner/supervisor 304 West Pike Street Canonsburg 724-745-8120, where Catholic Blessing services will be held at 10 am Monday, April 17, 2023, with Father James Dowds officiating. Full military rites will be accorded by the VFW Post 191 Honor Guard and the United States Navy. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Michael’s name be made to the SNPJ Circle 19 care of SNPJ :Lodge 138, 269 Latimer Ave. Strabane PA. 15363
To view or extend condolences please visit www.salandrafunerals.com.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Michael Progar, please visit our flower store.