Michael Joseph Susak

A man of great stature and an even greater heart, Mike was known for his infectious humor, deep kindness, and thoughtful nature. Mike brought joy and laughter into the lives of those who were privileged to know him. He had the ability to turn the ordinary into extraordinary with his quick wit and knack for finding humor even in the simplest of moments. Mike was a man of deep compassion, always ready to lend a helping hand, listen without judgement, or share words of encouragement.

Born in La Grande, Oregon, Mike spent his early years in the community he cherished, attending Ackerman Grade School and La Grande High School before moving to Portland in 1988. He graduated from Central Catholic High School in 1991, where he played varsity football and formed friendships that would last a lifetime.

A philosopher at heart, Mike loved solving problems and exploring ideas from all angles. He graduated from Portland State University with a degree in Philosophy, a testament to his intellectual curiosity. His interests were as broad as his spirit, spanning food, music, theater, the outdoors, and laughter from any source. Whether hunting, fishing, traveling or simply enjoying a good joke, Mike lived life with a sense of joy and discovery.

Mike was deeply devoted to his wife, Charlene and a loving father to his children, Kyle, Phoenix, JonSnow, Aiden, Logan and Kaiya. Family was the most important to him and he worked tirelessly to build a life with his family at the center. Together, Mike and Charlene shared love, laughter, adventure, and many achievements. When not at work, Mike enjoyed spending time with his family, whether it was family vacations with the kids, culinary trips with Charlene, or giving back to the community where the whole family would gather and feed anyone needing a bite to eat and someone to talk to. Mike thought big and was always on the lookout for the next great adventure.

Since he was a teenager, Mike worked in restaurants in many different capacities. He learned everything he could about food whether he was working or it was just for fun. In 2009, he started West Coast Scrapple with his Uncle Steve to share the family’s prized Scrapple recipe with the entire country. In 2010, Mike worked with Charlene to launch The Gaufre Gourmet, a food cart that quickly gained popularity in downtown Portland and appeared on numerous shows on The Cooking Channel and Food Network. Their hard work and vision culminated in the opening of Gigi’s Cafe, a cherished neighborhood restaurant in Hillsdale, that just celebrated its 10th anniversary. His job title, Waffle Wizard, showcased his ability to craft magical waffles as well as other brunch creations at GiGi’s. Mike was steadfast in ensuring the highest of standards in the food presented at the cafe and his family’s traditional scrapple recipe is still featured on the menu.

Mike was multifaceted in his abilities. While managing the kitchen at GiGi’s, he also was a Real Estate Broker and worked closely with local developers in the area. He was personally involved in many projects in the Multnomah and Washington county areas. His attention and caring to those he helped with projects was second to none. Mike could see the good above all else in everyone he met and chose to bring his knowledge to the party to benefit others.

Mike’s passion for food went far beyond sustenance; it was a way to connect, share, and explore. He delighted in Croatian culinary traditions, loved studying the history and science of food, and whether catering for the business or cooking for family gatherings, he became a master of events. A spectacular roasting spit on a trailer was among his prized possessions. He was known for roasting a whole lamb or pig as a centerpiece of family gatherings and celebrations. Mike enjoyed nothing more than being in the heart of the kitchen creating food for the hungry masses.

Mike’s survivors include his wife, Charlene, his children, Phoenix, JonSnow, Aiden, Logan and Kaiya, his parents, Gary and Linda Susak, and his sisters, Katie (Aaron) Brown and Angela Susak. Also missing him tremendously are numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends who will forever cherish the memories they shared. Mike was preceded in death by his son Kyle.

Though his time with us was far too short, Mike leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and kindness that will live on in the hearts of everyone he touched. Remember to cherish every moment, love deeply, be kind and always find reasons to smile just as he did every day of his life.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at St. John Fisher Catholic Church, 4567 SW Nevada St., Portland, OR. The rosary will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to World Central Kitchen, a charity that uses the power of food to nourish the world, just as Mike would have done if he could.

In his 51 years, Mike touched countless lives with his warmth, generosity, and wisdom. He was a man who lived fully, laughed loudly, loved deeply, and left the world better than he found it. He will be missed more than words can express.

Please feel welcome to share your condolences, warm memories, and cherished photos on this page for Mike's friends, family, and loved ones.