Michael Suvak

Michael Suvak passed away peacefully on Friday, October 9, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born in 1929 to John and Kristina Suvak in Borov, Czechoslovakia, Michael came to the United States in 1947, at age 17, with his mother and sisters to reunite with his father. The family settled in Binghamton, New York. Michael graduated from Binghamton North High School and completed a tool-and-die apprenticeship program with General Electric. He worked for GE for 37 years, finishing his career in the Planning Department. While working in Schenectady, New York, Michael met Lorraine Hawk, and they married in 1955. They later moved to Johnson City to raise their family. Michael’s greatest pleasure in life was being with his family especially his grandchildren. He was always ready to lend a hand—whether clearing snow for neighbors, making repairs, or giving a good scolding when needed. A lifelong member of St. Michael’s Church, he spent countless hours volunteering his time. He is survived by his son, Archdeacon Michael W.; daughters Christine Srnka (John) and Rosemarie Marsh (Lyle); sister Mary Dervay; grandchildren Nicholas and Marie Komanecky, David Ligator, Stephanie and John Srnka; great-grandchildren Jacob and Louis Ligator and Jason Pierce; and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lorraine; his parents, John and Kristina; his grandson, Jason Ligator; his sister, Anna and Richard Wells; his brother-in-law, Joseph Dervay; and in-laws Guy, Louise, Lindell, Faye, and Wayne Hawk. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Lakisha, Tammy, and Amy for the loving care they gave Dad. In an essay Michael wrote in 1950, he shared what America meant to him: “American citizens should feel proud to live in a land such as this; a land of freedom, a land of prosperity, a land of which I am proud to be a part. To some, America is a place of chewing gum, baseball games and soda pop. To me, America is a land of democracy, land of the free and the home of the brave.” The family will receive friends at St. Michael’s Church, 292 Clinton St, Binghamton, NY, on Thursday, October 15th, from 9 to 10 AM. Divine Liturgy will follow, followed by the Funeral service and subsequent burial at St. Michael’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jason Ligator Altar Service Award, c/o St. Michael’s Church, 292 Clinton St., Binghamton, NY, or to the Broome County Humane Society.