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Michael J.
Brown
Sep 20, 1959 — May 18, 2025
Michael J. Brown, 65, of Plains, passed away Sunday, May 18, 2025, at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Township.
His loving wife is Catherine Yurchak Brown. Michael and Cathy were looking forward to celebrating their 29th wedding anniversary on October 26th, 2025.
Born on September 20, 1959, in Wilkes- Barre, Michael was the son of the late Leonard and Helen Bishop Brown.
Raised in Ashley, Michael was a graduate of Hanover Area High School, Class of 1977.
Michael began his career at Techneglas, where he served as a team leader, developing a strong work ethic and leadership skills. Later, he transitioned to Pepsi Beverages, where he worked for many years, eventually retiring after a successful career.
A dedicated fitness enthusiast, Michael found joy in staying active and enjoying the benefits of running and working out.
He was known for his warm and engaging personality. He was genuinely friendly and he had a knack for making people laugh, leaving everyone around him smiling. He particularly enjoyed his once-a-month breakfast gatherings with his fellow retired colleagues from Pepsi and Coke.
He was a man of simple pleasures, finding joy in the everyday tasks of yard work, cooking, and cleaning. He also enjoyed watching Judge Judy. His greatest love, however, was his wife Cathy, whom he supported in every aspect of life. From supporting her crafting endeavors to completing simple life tasks, Michael and Cathy's compassionate relationship remained strong. Their friendship and bond were beautifully unique.
He was a proud and loving father to his sons, particularly known for his unwavering support during their wrestling meets, where he was their biggest and loudest fan. He was especially proud of his sons, and the men they have become.
Family was always his top priority, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He was incredibly supportive and always there for his loved ones. Beyond his family, he found immense joy in the companionship of his beloved dog, Emme. During his time with her, they would enjoy walks, playing in the yard, napping, and simply lounging around waiting for Cathy and the boys to get home.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Surviving are his wife, Cathy; sons, Michael Brown Jr. and his fiancé, Shayna Fehrle; Joshua Brown; and Jacob Brown, all from Plains; his siblings, Leonard Brown; Roseanne Polak; Mary Ellen Serafin; David Brown; Theresa Kane; Bernard Brown; Ava Munley; and Donna Nealon; his sister-in-law, Julia Hoskins; his brother and sister-in-law, Walter and Beth Yurchak; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Michael's viewing which will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Bednarski Funeral Home, 168 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming.
Parastas Service will be celebrated on Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. by the Reverend Innocent Neal.
A Funeral Service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday in Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church, 401 E. Main St., Wilkes-Barre; with the Reverend Innocent Neal, officiating.
Those attending the funeral Mass are asked to assemble directly at the church on Saturday morning.
Interment will follow in St. John the Baptist Orthodox Cemetery, Pringle.
To share a memory of Michael or message of condolence with his family, please visit www.bednarskifuneralhome.com
Memorial contributions may be made in Michael's memory to Holy Trinity Orthodox Church or to the SPCA, 524 East Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.
Friday
BEDNARSKI FUNERAL HOME
Starts at 7:30 pm
Saturday
Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church
Starts at 10:00 am
Saturday
St. John the Baptist Orthodox Cemetery
12:00 - 12:30 pm
Visits: 33
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