Michael John Sabasko

Michael J. Sabasko of Edison, formerly of Linden and Hillside, passed away on January 19, 2017, lovingly surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with colorectal cancer. He was 76. Cherished father of four devoted and adoring daughters and their husbands, Mike is survived by: Geri Sabasko of Beverly, Michele  “Shelli” and Steven Taylor of Virginia Beach, VA, Denise “Denni” and John Ciesla of Eastampton, and Jennifer “Jenney” and John Purcell of Gainesville, VA; loving Pop-Pop to six granddaughters Vanessa Sabasko (Rob Nacucchio), Emilie Temple (Matt Steedle), Kimberly and Matt Nissen, Kelly Ciesla, Cassie Ciesla and Sam Taylor; and three great-grandchildren: Andrew, Emma, and Cayden.  He is also survived by his significant other, Pat Corson, and her family.

He was preceded in death by his faithful parents, John and Bertha Sabasko, and his twin great-grandsons, Zachary and Tyler Steedle.

Mike graduated from St. Mary of the Assumption High School in Elizabeth, NJ.  He was a hard-working, well-respected businessman who, after a short stint in real estate, found his vocation when he was given his start at Madden Plastics and learned the Tool & Die trade. Mike eventually earned junior partnership at Form Manufacturing Tool & Die Co. Inc., ultimately becoming sole owner.  As he always enjoyed being on the go, upon retirement, Mike welcomed the opportunities to work part time for June and Royal Chevrolet Dealerships.

Mike delighted in visiting with his children and grandchildren, both in and out of state.  His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were all recipients of an affectionate “knuckle sammich” and taught how to “doot-doot” their Pop-Pop’s index finger right from birth! There was always room on Pop-Pop’s lap for a snuggle or a nap.

Mike’s love of thrills and adventure led his family on road trips up and down the East Coast, singing aloud to the Eagles, Johnny Cash, CCR and other chart hits, making precious memories together. From Niagara Falls to Disney World… some beloved favorites were the Jersey shore, especially Manasquan, sitting at the inlet and watching the “big boats” with his daughters and granddaughters, eating ice cream cones from Carlsons as well as walking the Point Pleasant Boardwalk, picnics at the Polish Falcon’s club and enjoying games of chance at Keansburg.  Mike also enjoyed model trains, car and boat shows. He loved amusement park rides, especially roller coasters, and the exhilarating experiences of hot air ballooning, gliding, and even skydiving. Yet he was equally content to enjoy his daily crossword puzzle, a game of Words with Friends, playing Texas Hold ‘Em on his Kindle, or watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. 

Mike enjoyed traveling with his significant other to Nashville, Virginia, Hawaii, Vegas winery hopping and trips to local casinos plus many other places.

Mike was a self-professed “jack-of-all trades, master of none”, helping anyone who asked.  He not only completely renovated his former residence; he also helped renovate his daughter’s kitchen, built numerous sheds, remodeled bathrooms, etc. He loved to “bang boards” often using a half-full bottle of beer as his level!

Always the life of the party he will be especially missed at future family gatherings.

Always Be Close By

Now that I have left, please try to go on and don't shed tears, be happy for me

and think of all the wonderful times we've shared over the years.

Remember the times that brought happiness in our hearts, don't think of

my life as ending because this is where it really starts.

When you ever want to remember me just look up in the sky, I'll be the

brightest star shining. I'll always be close by.

Per Mike’s express wishes, there will be no public memorial held by his family. His daughters are honoring his request by having a private remembrance and disposition of ashes.

In honor of Mike’s memory, donations can be made to:  EIF’s NCCRA (Entertainment Industry Foundation National Colorectal Cancer Research Alliance) co-founded by Katie Couric at www.eifoundation.org or the American Cancer Society at www.donate.cancer.org

Expressions of sympathy and remembrance can be left on this website or sent directly to his daughters.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dan and Jacqueline Simone of All Faiths Cremation Service for their compassion, kindness, caring, and willingness to go above and beyond to ease the family’s grief and challenges during this difficult time.

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