Michael S. Milaniak ("Mike" or "Grandpap"), 82, passed away peacefully with loved ones by his side on April 2, 2026 after a brief illness.  He was born on November 18,1943 in Pittsburgh, PA.

Mike met the true love of his life, Marion, at the young age of 16.  They married 61 years ago on February 6, 1965 in Pittsburgh and moved to Connecticut the next day, where they built a wonderful life together and raised their family in Middlefield, CT.  Mike worked at Pratt & Whitney for 40 years as a metallurgical engineer as well as several years as an independent consultant.  Mike was especially proud to have been awarded 4 US Patents for coating applications during his tenure at Pratt & Whitney.

Mike loved to travel and drive, visiting 45 states during his retirement.  When he wasn't traveling, Mike's favorite way to spend his time was watching his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers and UConn Men's & Women's basketball games, going to casinos, and following all of his grandchildren throughout the adventures they are experiencing as they are growing up.  Wherever Mike was, there was never a shortage of snacks by his side!

In addition to Marion, Mike is survived by his 3 children and 9 grandchildren: Lynn Lee, her husband Thomas, of Portsmouth, RI, and their children Thomas Jr and his wife Dr. Yuracy Salazar-Lee (Elly) of Lacey, WA, Dr. Jennifer Hurley and her husband Joel of Layton, UT, Stephen of Park Ridge, IL,  and Kathleen of Portsmouth, RI; Michael, his wife Dr.  Sigrun Hallmeyer, and their children Johannes (Hans), Hanna and Hendrik, all of Prospect Heights, IL; and Elizabeth Christensen, her husband James, and their children Andrew and Colby, all of East Hampton, CT.

Mike was predeceased by his parents, John and Margaret Milaniak of Pittsburgh, PA, and his sister Margaret Hornyak of Pittsburgh, PA.  He is survived by his sisters Mary Ann Miaczynski of Pittsburgh, PA and Rose Marie Adams of Vero Beach, FL, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A private celebration of Mike's life will be held at a future date.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cancer Survivorship Center at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, care of the Advocate Charitable Foundation, 2025 Windsor Drive, Oak Brooke, IL 60523 or at the following link Lutheran General Hospital Cancer Survivorship Campaign - Advocate Charitable Foundatio n