Michael Charles Powanda

Michael Charles Powanda, 80, of Irwin Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, April 14th, 2025. Michael was born on October 3rd, 1944 in McKeesport, PA to proud and loving parents, Helen and Andrew Powanda of Clairton, Pennsylvania. As a young man, Michael spent the summers working in the steel mill near his home town of Clairton. This along with the help of his parents, is how he funded his education beyond high school and earned his undergraduate degree. Shortly after college, he became a public school teacher, only pausing for one year while attending university in Wisconsin to earn his Master’s Degree in Mathematics. Most of Michael’s teaching career took place in Wayne NJ where he taught Physics up until his retirement in 1999. As a teacher, Michael was enthusiastic about physical science and loved demonstrating the labs that helped facilitate his students’ learning. In addition to a love of teaching was an enthusiasm for Astronomy which he shared with students as a long time advisor of the Astronomy Club at Wayne Hills High School. Over the years Michael was a wonderful teacher to countless students. He was a kind, generous, and reliable friend to his fellow faculty and staff. He was, and remains deeply loved by those who knew him best. During his time in retirement, Michael enjoyed jogging and walking, taking care of his dog Coa Coa, and then later caring for his kitten, Alley Cat. He remained a charismatic and die-hard Steelers fan but also enjoyed spectating a wide variety of sports, content to watch just about any type of event on television. He would also take long road trips back to New Jersey to visit with friends and loved ones. Locally, he would attend family gatherings with his nephews, and enjoyed visiting often with his brother Andrew (Sonny) Powanda, and his sister-in-law, Hazel Powanda, both of whom preceded him in death. Michael Powanda, de facto father and grandfather, lovingly known as Pop Pop, Po, and Uncle Mike, will be forever missed. He is survived by: his grandchildren, Shane and Evalyn; daughter Kimberly and son-in-law Tony; his nephews Allen, Andrew, Kevin, and Greg. Services are private. Arrangements handled by the William Snyder Funeral Home, 521 Main Street, Irwin, 724-863-1200. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.

Michael Charles Powanda

October 3, 1944 - April 14, 2025