Michael Sirbas, age 57 of Crown Point, IN passed away Saturday, July 25, 2009 at his home. He is survived by his wife, Penny; son, James Jamie Sirbas of Lansing, IL; two daughters: Penny JoEllynn and April Mae both of Crown Point; granddaughter, Kaley Lynn Sirbas; mother, Patricia Frederick Johnson of Hammond; father, George SirbasContinue Reading
Michael Sirbas, age 57 of Crown Point, IN passed away Saturday, July 25, 2009 at his home. He is survived by his wife, Penny; son, James Jamie Sirbas of Lansing, IL; two daughters: Penny JoEllynn and April Mae both of Crown Point; granddaughter, Kaley Lynn Sirbas; mother, Patricia Frederick Johnson of Hammond; father, George Sirbas of Hammond; brothers: Christopher, Paul and Tim Sirbas and James Tammy Tobin; sisters: Kathleen Sirbas, Margaret Hayden and Charlotte Bob Parker; brothers-In-Law: Joe Debbe Crnkovich, Greg Laura Crnkovich; sister-In-Law, Candy Parsons and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by sister, Georgiana Forsythe. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2009 at 10:30 AM at Community Bible Church 13620 Wicker Ave.US Route 41 Cedar Lake, IN with Pastor Tim Rezac officiating. Interment at St. Mary's Cemetery in Crown Point, IN. Visitation will be held at Geisen Funeral, Cremation & Reception Centre NOTE: NEW LOCATION at 606 E. 113th Ave. Crown Point, IN 2 Blocks East of Broadway on Wednesday, July 29, 2009 from 1:00-4:00 PM & 5:00-9:00 PM and from 9:30-10:30 AM on Thursday morning directly at the church. Mike graduated from Hammond Tech in 1971. Following school he served in the U.S. Marine Corp. from 1971-1977 and was a Vietnam Veteran. He received the National Defense Service Medal and was Honorably Discharged. He worked at Inland Steel for 10 years then moved on to Werner Ladder where he started out as an entry level mechanic, climbing the ladder to become the Maintenance Superintendent. He made many life long friends over his 20 year career at Warner Ladder. Currently Mike was employed by Rieter Automotive in Lowell, IN for the past three years as the Maintenance Manager where he was loved and highly respected by his coworkers. Mike and his family are members of the Community Bible Church where he learned of Christ's love and compassion that has led him to become a church deacon and small group bible study leader. His living testimony spreads far beyond his church family, co-workers, people he met through his extensive cancer treatments, the Crown Point Girls Softball community and every person he came in contact with throughout his busy life. Mike was enthusiastically involved in the Crown Point Girls Softball League and the National Softball Association NSA for the past 10 years. He was Vice President of the league, coach, umpire, and tournament director. In 2009 he was honored by the NSA by being inducted into the NSA Hall of Fame for all his hard work and dedication. His greatest impact on the girls was not only from being a softball coach but more importantly a life coach. His motto of bear hugs, happy dances and “It's magic time” is in many people's hearts and will continue to live on. Semper Fidelis. To send a condolence or share a memory with the family, please visit the guest book section on the obituary page at www.geisenfuneralhome.com. For information call 219-663-2500.
your baby girl
left a message on July 25, 2010:
It's been a year daddy. I miss you so bad. Mom says today is your birthday in Heaven. I wonder if you are having a party. I wonder what you do there everyday. We're at the World Series in Chattanooga & it's really sad without you here. I did ok today though. I didn't cry all day, mom's really sad too, she cried a lot. I finally got into nursing school. I'm getting married to. You'd like him he's a marine & a christian. I'm sure you've already checked him out from up there. Can you please ask God to let mom be happy again. It's really hard for us but we'll be ok. We're tough cookies just like you showed us how to be. Remember we were raised by a marine is what you always used to say and marines don't raise sissies. Love you so much.
your baby girl
left a message on September 5, 2009:
Dear Daddy, Please come home. I miss you so bad. I think about you every day. I need you. I cleaned the house today for mom. I know it makes you happy when I do that. I tried on your shirt today, it goes to my knees. I hope you like the flowers I brought you. I remember you told me they were your favorite. I'm sorry I cry a lot, I know you don't like to see me sad and crying. Remember when you said Save me baby? well I'm going to school to be a doctor now. Then I can try and help other people's daddys. Waldo still talks just like you, I hope he never stops. Thanksgiving is coming up, your favorite holiday. I'm a little scared for it, it's going to be the worst Thanksgiving ever. I wish you were here so bad. I'm studying hard just like you want me to. Can you please come to me in a good dream and no more bad dreams. I can't wait to see you in heaven and play catch. I hope you've been practicing. You have to introduce me to Aunt Gana ok? I miss you so much daddy. You were the greatest daddy in the whole wide world. Love forever and always, Your favorite baby girl
Neil Hatfield
left a message on August 4, 2009:
My deepest heartfelt sympathies on your loss. I knew Mike from the time he started at Werner and worked closely with him. Mike was the type who had an infectious CanDO attitude that animated all those around him and was always in the best of spirits. His death is loss to all of us who knew and cared for him.
Pam and Lori Campbell
left a message on July 31, 2009:
Dear Penny, Penny Jo and April, I can hardly find the words to tell you how sorry we are. I just lost my husband 3 weeks and 1 day ago. It was the worst day of my life and it's still so very hard. We're filled with unbelief. I will always think of you now since our husbands passed so close in time. I truly know what you're going through. I remember Mike very well from Gingerbread School. He was very sweet and a wonderful dad. He was like a big teddy bear. We know you'll miss him with all your hearts. I pray and pray for strength every night and I'll be praying for you, too. You'll always be a dear, precious family to us. Please take good care. Our love, Pam and Lori
Okeley Family
left a message on July 31, 2009:
To the Sirbas Family--Mike was the first person we met at CPGSL. We were so blessed. We we pleased when Mike umped our games because we knew our daughter would learn a softball and life lesson as well. I'm sure Mike didn't remember our names but he knew we were a part of CP softball and always greeted us with his smile. We are better people and parents for having meet Mike. Thank you for sharing your husband and dad with your softball friends. We will keep your family in our prayers.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Amie Habdas
left a message on July 30, 2009:
I only knew Mr. Sirbas for too short a moment in time, but his love for his family, his optimism, and his strength during his courageous battle with cancer touched my heart. I pray that your family finds comfort in knowing that he is no longer suffering, and that his memory lives on in our hearts. Amie H, West 4 RN If I should ever leave you whom I love To go along the Silent Way, grieve not, Nor speak of me with tears, but laugh and talk Of me as if I were beside you there. I loved you so-- it was heaven, here, with you. ~ Isla Paschal Richardson
Chuck Barthelemy
left a message on July 30, 2009:
Penny I am very sorry I couldn't come to Mike's services. Mike and I were very good friends while we were at Werner Co. There was nothing I couldn't ask Mike to do for my departments and he would always come through. My condolences goes out to you and your family and I know that God will provide for you. Mike is out of pain and in good hands. May God be with you and your family Always. Sincerely, Chuck
Sue Nuzzo
left a message on July 30, 2009:
We are so sorry for your loss.Mike was a wonderful man, Our prayers go out to the Sirbas family during this difficult time. God is good all the time. Rest in Peace Mike!!!!!
Megan Wirtz Springman
left a message on July 29, 2009:
Penny and girls, I am so sorry for you loss. Mike was such a wonderful man and a great mentor to my girls in softball. He was kind and fair and loved you all so much...it showed! Penny we've known one another since forever and if you need anything please just call. God be with you all , Megan
Michael Bixeman
left a message on July 29, 2009:
Mike, I thank God for the opportunity to have known you and be your friend and associate at Rieter Automotive. You were a man of integrity and had committment to doing the right think, even when it wasnt popular. I learned alot from you Mike, Thanks. Penny, God bless you and your family. And remember this little prayer, you'll know its Mike doing the carrying. One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky. In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand. Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,other times there were one set of footprints. This bothered me because I noticed that during the low periods of my life,when I was suffering from anguish, sorrow or defeat,I could see only one set of footprints. So I said to the Lord, You promised me Lord,that if I followed you,you would walk with me always. But I have noticed that during the most trying periods of my life there have only been one set of footprints in the sand. Why, when I needed you most,you have not been there for me? The Lord replied, The times when you have seen only one set of footprints in the sand,is when I carried you. Mike will forever be looking over you and your children God Bless, Mike
Jimmy & Susan Cartledge
left a message on July 29, 2009:
Penny & Family We are so sorry to hear about Mike passing.He was such a good man.And so caring for others.Now Mike is in Heaven with our son Jeremy.And they are not suffering any more.We will never forget Mike,and our thoughts and prayers are with you Penny, and the Family. Jimmy,Susan Cartledge
Libby Sheppard
left a message on July 29, 2009:
Dear Penny, Penny Jo and April, We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your husband and father. Mike was the BEST!! He was an inspiration to so many people. Please know that we are there in spirit. You are in our prayers and in our hearts. Love, The Sheppards Tim, Libby, Anne and Emily
Angie Klein
left a message on July 29, 2009:
Sirbas family, I am terribly sorry for the loss. I will never forget Mr. Sirbas. Thank you for being a softball coach and teaching me to improve my skills. You all will be in my thoughts and prayers. May he rest in peace, finally.
Joseph Lapota Jr
left a message on July 29, 2009:
To Penny and the Sirbas Family, Our condolences to all of you. Mike was a friend and Hero to many and will be missed. We will remember Mike for many things, especially his influence on the girls he's coached. God bless you all, Diane & Joe Lapota Cedar Lake Softball
Rick Swansbro
left a message on July 29, 2009:
Mike, I am thankful for the opportunity to be your friend and business assiciate at Werner Ladder. You were a decisive leader that I enjoyed working with. God bless you and your your family.
Anderson Family
left a message on July 28, 2009:
Penny and family...My family wants to send our prayers...while I didn't know Mike very well he must have been such a great person...what love I have witnessed... reading your other emails throughout his illness... your pain is great but I hope that you all realize just how much I think it has touched so many who have read all the email updates to see how God has really given you strength...and what a testiment to God that you shared your strength with all of us...Its seems from what I have heard that Mike lived out God's plan... beautifully... My family sends our love and prayers... Pamela Anderson
Ron,Karen,Chris and Tracy Paswinski
left a message on July 28, 2009:
Penny and family, We are so very sorry to hear about Mike's passing. It sounds like Mike was a very special person. I wish I could have known him better God is good all the time. Love , Karen
Abbott Family
left a message on July 28, 2009:
Dear Penny and Family, We are so sorry for your loss. Know that you are in our hearts and in our prayers. If there is anything we can ever do we are here for you. God be with you all. Love, your friends and neighbors, The Abbott Family
sister Candy
left a message on July 28, 2009:
oh sister you are so right. Brother has been the only man in my life consistently for the past 25 years.You know I love him dearly and I love you and the girls so very much too! I wish I could ease your pain and make it all better. But God has a plan. I don't know what I'll do with out him either. Were just gonna stick close and get through this with God's help. It won't be easy this I know. I am so afraid of tomorrow. My heart is breaking at the thought of it. I love you sister. Remember all of the singing and all the words we did over Mike? He loved it. Now we must just put our faith in the words and remember....Blessed Be His Name I Love You All So Very Much and we will get through this together. I'm not going anywhere I promise. But you already know that. I am so blessed to have you for a sister and our hearts made us best friends. Hurting with you sister. love you more, Sister
Charlotte
left a message on July 27, 2009:
We will always love you Mike.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Kim Parker
left a message on July 27, 2009:
Penny, Jamie, Penny Jo and April you are all in our prayers!! We wish we could be there with you, but please know that our hearts are right there with you and God has you wrapped in His loving arms. Numbers 6:24-26 We love you. Love, Kim, Justin, Phyllis and Ben
Shirley Minnick
left a message on July 27, 2009:
Mike was a person with integrity, courage and love for the game and the children who played. He brought a breath of fresh air into our cloudy and dreary days and put a smile on our face. Mike was one of the bravest people that I have known. He is in a place where he will no longer have pain or sorrow and our lives have been blessed for knowing him. Love in Christ Shirley and the NSA Indiana family
Jerry & Laura Kaufman
left a message on July 27, 2009:
In the short time we've gotten to know you, we knew you as a man of integrity and a man that loved the Lord. You truly lived your faith and the love of Christ shown through you. You will be greatly missed. God Bless, Jerry & Laura
Gary Warwick
left a message on July 27, 2009:
Mike God bless you my friend and keep you close ,as I know he has blessed your family and kept them close . Had many positive conversations with you about softball and how it builds self esteem in our children . But it takes people like you to plant the seed . You were a class person on and off the field to all . You also planted the seed not just in players but in other coaches like myself and Dwight . You will be missed / but never forgotten. What you have done for the youth and the parents in Crown Point softball will never be forgotten. Especially the impact you had on your family . I will see you someday my friend. God Bless the Sirbas family . Gary & Priscilla Warwick
Gary Warwick
left a message on July 27, 2009:
Mike God bless you my friend and keep you close ,as I know he has blessed your family and kept them close . Had many positive conversations with you about softball and how it builds self esteem in our children . But it takes people like you to plant the seed . You were a class person on and off the field to all . You also planted the seed not just in players but in other coaches like myself and Dwight . You will be missed / but never forgotten. What you have done for the youth and the parents in Crown Point softball will never be forgotten. Especially the impact you had on your family . I will see you someday my friend. God Bless the Sirbas family .
American Legion Post 100
left a message on July 27, 2009:
Your loved one will be in our prayers. John Rassbach Commander
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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your baby girl
left a message on July 25, 2010:
It's been a year daddy. I miss you so bad. Mom says today is your birthday in Heaven. I wonder if you are having a party. I wonder what you do there everyday. We're at the World Series in Chattanooga & it's really sad without you here. I did ok today though. I didn't cry all day, mom's really sad too, she cried a lot. I finally got into nursing school. I'm getting married to. You'd like him he's a marine & a christian. I'm sure you've already checked him out from up there. Can you please ask God to let mom be happy again. It's really hard for us but we'll be ok. We're tough cookies just like you showed us how to be. Remember we were raised by a marine is what you always used to say and marines don't raise sissies. Love you so much.
your baby girl
left a message on September 5, 2009:
Dear Daddy, Please come home. I miss you so bad. I think about you every day. I need you. I cleaned the house today for mom. I know it makes you happy when I do that. I tried on your shirt today, it goes to my knees. I hope you like the flowers I brought you. I remember you told me they were your favorite. I'm sorry I cry a lot, I know you don't like to see me sad and crying. Remember when you said Save me baby? well I'm going to school to be a doctor now. Then I can try and help other people's daddys. Waldo still talks just like you, I hope he never stops. Thanksgiving is coming up, your favorite holiday. I'm a little scared for it, it's going to be the worst Thanksgiving ever. I wish you were here so bad. I'm studying hard just like you want me to. Can you please come to me in a good dream and no more bad dreams. I can't wait to see you in heaven and play catch. I hope you've been practicing. You have to introduce me to Aunt Gana ok? I miss you so much daddy. You were the greatest daddy in the whole wide world. Love forever and always, Your favorite baby girl
Neil Hatfield
left a message on August 4, 2009:
My deepest heartfelt sympathies on your loss. I knew Mike from the time he started at Werner and worked closely with him. Mike was the type who had an infectious CanDO attitude that animated all those around him and was always in the best of spirits. His death is loss to all of us who knew and cared for him.
Pam and Lori Campbell
left a message on July 31, 2009:
Dear Penny, Penny Jo and April, I can hardly find the words to tell you how sorry we are. I just lost my husband 3 weeks and 1 day ago. It was the worst day of my life and it's still so very hard. We're filled with unbelief. I will always think of you now since our husbands passed so close in time. I truly know what you're going through. I remember Mike very well from Gingerbread School. He was very sweet and a wonderful dad. He was like a big teddy bear. We know you'll miss him with all your hearts. I pray and pray for strength every night and I'll be praying for you, too. You'll always be a dear, precious family to us. Please take good care. Our love, Pam and Lori
Okeley Family
left a message on July 31, 2009:
To the Sirbas Family--Mike was the first person we met at CPGSL. We were so blessed. We we pleased when Mike umped our games because we knew our daughter would learn a softball and life lesson as well. I'm sure Mike didn't remember our names but he knew we were a part of CP softball and always greeted us with his smile. We are better people and parents for having meet Mike. Thank you for sharing your husband and dad with your softball friends. We will keep your family in our prayers.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Amie Habdas
left a message on July 30, 2009:
I only knew Mr. Sirbas for too short a moment in time, but his love for his family, his optimism, and his strength during his courageous battle with cancer touched my heart. I pray that your family finds comfort in knowing that he is no longer suffering, and that his memory lives on in our hearts. Amie H, West 4 RN If I should ever leave you whom I love To go along the Silent Way, grieve not, Nor speak of me with tears, but laugh and talk Of me as if I were beside you there. I loved you so-- it was heaven, here, with you. ~ Isla Paschal Richardson
Chuck Barthelemy
left a message on July 30, 2009:
Penny I am very sorry I couldn't come to Mike's services. Mike and I were very good friends while we were at Werner Co. There was nothing I couldn't ask Mike to do for my departments and he would always come through. My condolences goes out to you and your family and I know that God will provide for you. Mike is out of pain and in good hands. May God be with you and your family Always. Sincerely, Chuck
Sue Nuzzo
left a message on July 30, 2009:
We are so sorry for your loss.Mike was a wonderful man, Our prayers go out to the Sirbas family during this difficult time. God is good all the time. Rest in Peace Mike!!!!!
Megan Wirtz Springman
left a message on July 29, 2009:
Penny and girls, I am so sorry for you loss. Mike was such a wonderful man and a great mentor to my girls in softball. He was kind and fair and loved you all so much...it showed! Penny we've known one another since forever and if you need anything please just call. God be with you all , Megan
Michael Bixeman
left a message on July 29, 2009:
Mike, I thank God for the opportunity to have known you and be your friend and associate at Rieter Automotive. You were a man of integrity and had committment to doing the right think, even when it wasnt popular. I learned alot from you Mike, Thanks. Penny, God bless you and your family. And remember this little prayer, you'll know its Mike doing the carrying. One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky. In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand. Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,other times there were one set of footprints. This bothered me because I noticed that during the low periods of my life,when I was suffering from anguish, sorrow or defeat,I could see only one set of footprints. So I said to the Lord, You promised me Lord,that if I followed you,you would walk with me always. But I have noticed that during the most trying periods of my life there have only been one set of footprints in the sand. Why, when I needed you most,you have not been there for me? The Lord replied, The times when you have seen only one set of footprints in the sand,is when I carried you. Mike will forever be looking over you and your children God Bless, Mike
Jimmy & Susan Cartledge
left a message on July 29, 2009:
Penny & Family We are so sorry to hear about Mike passing.He was such a good man.And so caring for others.Now Mike is in Heaven with our son Jeremy.And they are not suffering any more.We will never forget Mike,and our thoughts and prayers are with you Penny, and the Family. Jimmy,Susan Cartledge
Libby Sheppard
left a message on July 29, 2009:
Dear Penny, Penny Jo and April, We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your husband and father. Mike was the BEST!! He was an inspiration to so many people. Please know that we are there in spirit. You are in our prayers and in our hearts. Love, The Sheppards Tim, Libby, Anne and Emily
Angie Klein
left a message on July 29, 2009:
Sirbas family, I am terribly sorry for the loss. I will never forget Mr. Sirbas. Thank you for being a softball coach and teaching me to improve my skills. You all will be in my thoughts and prayers. May he rest in peace, finally.
Joseph Lapota Jr
left a message on July 29, 2009:
To Penny and the Sirbas Family, Our condolences to all of you. Mike was a friend and Hero to many and will be missed. We will remember Mike for many things, especially his influence on the girls he's coached. God bless you all, Diane & Joe Lapota Cedar Lake Softball
Rick Swansbro
left a message on July 29, 2009:
Mike, I am thankful for the opportunity to be your friend and business assiciate at Werner Ladder. You were a decisive leader that I enjoyed working with. God bless you and your your family.
Anderson Family
left a message on July 28, 2009:
Penny and family...My family wants to send our prayers...while I didn't know Mike very well he must have been such a great person...what love I have witnessed... reading your other emails throughout his illness... your pain is great but I hope that you all realize just how much I think it has touched so many who have read all the email updates to see how God has really given you strength...and what a testiment to God that you shared your strength with all of us...Its seems from what I have heard that Mike lived out God's plan... beautifully... My family sends our love and prayers... Pamela Anderson
Ron,Karen,Chris and Tracy Paswinski
left a message on July 28, 2009:
Penny and family, We are so very sorry to hear about Mike's passing. It sounds like Mike was a very special person. I wish I could have known him better God is good all the time. Love , Karen
Abbott Family
left a message on July 28, 2009:
Dear Penny and Family, We are so sorry for your loss. Know that you are in our hearts and in our prayers. If there is anything we can ever do we are here for you. God be with you all. Love, your friends and neighbors, The Abbott Family
sister Candy
left a message on July 28, 2009:
oh sister you are so right. Brother has been the only man in my life consistently for the past 25 years.You know I love him dearly and I love you and the girls so very much too! I wish I could ease your pain and make it all better. But God has a plan. I don't know what I'll do with out him either. Were just gonna stick close and get through this with God's help. It won't be easy this I know. I am so afraid of tomorrow. My heart is breaking at the thought of it. I love you sister. Remember all of the singing and all the words we did over Mike? He loved it. Now we must just put our faith in the words and remember....Blessed Be His Name I Love You All So Very Much and we will get through this together. I'm not going anywhere I promise. But you already know that. I am so blessed to have you for a sister and our hearts made us best friends. Hurting with you sister. love you more, Sister
Charlotte
left a message on July 27, 2009:
We will always love you Mike.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Kim Parker
left a message on July 27, 2009:
Penny, Jamie, Penny Jo and April you are all in our prayers!! We wish we could be there with you, but please know that our hearts are right there with you and God has you wrapped in His loving arms. Numbers 6:24-26 We love you. Love, Kim, Justin, Phyllis and Ben
Shirley Minnick
left a message on July 27, 2009:
Mike was a person with integrity, courage and love for the game and the children who played. He brought a breath of fresh air into our cloudy and dreary days and put a smile on our face. Mike was one of the bravest people that I have known. He is in a place where he will no longer have pain or sorrow and our lives have been blessed for knowing him. Love in Christ Shirley and the NSA Indiana family
Jerry & Laura Kaufman
left a message on July 27, 2009:
In the short time we've gotten to know you, we knew you as a man of integrity and a man that loved the Lord. You truly lived your faith and the love of Christ shown through you. You will be greatly missed. God Bless, Jerry & Laura
Gary Warwick
left a message on July 27, 2009:
Mike God bless you my friend and keep you close ,as I know he has blessed your family and kept them close . Had many positive conversations with you about softball and how it builds self esteem in our children . But it takes people like you to plant the seed . You were a class person on and off the field to all . You also planted the seed not just in players but in other coaches like myself and Dwight . You will be missed / but never forgotten. What you have done for the youth and the parents in Crown Point softball will never be forgotten. Especially the impact you had on your family . I will see you someday my friend. God Bless the Sirbas family . Gary & Priscilla Warwick
Gary Warwick
left a message on July 27, 2009:
Mike God bless you my friend and keep you close ,as I know he has blessed your family and kept them close . Had many positive conversations with you about softball and how it builds self esteem in our children . But it takes people like you to plant the seed . You were a class person on and off the field to all . You also planted the seed not just in players but in other coaches like myself and Dwight . You will be missed / but never forgotten. What you have done for the youth and the parents in Crown Point softball will never be forgotten. Especially the impact you had on your family . I will see you someday my friend. God Bless the Sirbas family .
American Legion Post 100
left a message on July 27, 2009:
Your loved one will be in our prayers. John Rassbach Commander
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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