Michael S. Evanek's Obituary
Michael Evanek age 69, of Baldwin, passed away suddenly at his home on Friday, January 12, 2024.
Michael is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Cathryn Evanek (Hinebaugh). Loving father of Matthew (Cassandra) Evanek and Chad (Nicole) Evanek. Cherished Pappy of Bryce Evanek, Cody Evanek, and Riley Evanek. Brother of Cheryl (Gary) Funaiock and Laura Evanek. Also survived by his special sister-in-law, Carole (Ed) Protin, brother-in-law, Dr. Ronald (Bridget) Hinebaugh, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and many dear friends. Preceded in death by his parents, Charlotte and Raymond Evanek.
Michael or as those who knew him best, "Big Mike", spent his entire life in Baldwin Whitehall. That is when he wasn't laying out on a beach. Well known as one of the best baseball pitchers to ever come out of Baldwin Whitehall, he graduated high school in 1972. Like many Pittsburghers at that time, he immediately went to work in the steel mills. Mike went back to school and reinvented himself in his mid-30's. Studying and being certified in Respiratory Therapy, he worked in Home Health Care until his retirement in his early 60's. Since then, he spent most of his retirement split between Pittsburgh and their condo in Virginia Beach with those he loved most.
Big Mike was the textbook definition of a yinzer. Truly the original Pittsburgh Dad, he absolutely bled black and gold. Mike loved rooting on his Pittsburgh sports teams and playing golf. The only thing he loved more than sports was his family and he was an amazing husband, father, and grandfather. The term ‘legend’ is used too loosely, but anyone that knew him would agree it applies in this case given his larger than life personality. He will be missed dearly, but his memory will live on.
Family and friends are welcome on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 from 2 to 4 & 6 to 8 pm at the Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home, 301 Curry Hollow Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236.
A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at 12 pm in the funeral home's chapel.
Memorial Contributions may be made in honor of Michael to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation at t2t.org or to a charity of your choice.
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