Leonard Johnny Michalak, Jr.

Leonard John Michalak, Jr born November 5, 1943 passed away February 13, 2017. All who knew the family and Johnny, knew that he was mentally retarded from birth. But a lot of folks didn't know that the medical profession told his parents that he would never live beyond 15 years of age. Thanks to the care given him by his Mama and stepfather and the love he received from this entire family, he lived to 73 years of age. He was innocent and sweet and funny and loved for people to tease him. He was a neatnik and always wanted things in place. When the grandbabies would come over they would drag out the toys and he went behind them and put them away just as fast as they got them out. He liked to sing and dance and loved listening to a transistor radio and singing right along with the music. He was curious and couldn't keep a secret. The minute anyone hit the house he would have to tell them the latest family crisis or gossip. He liked to dress up and go out to eat. At his nephew's wedding he wore a tuxedo and the waistband ripped out and he almost walked out of his pants. Johnny was sensitive and prayed for anyone he heard was sick. At the personal care home where he spent his last few months, he would take Holy Communion on Sunday, then fold his hands and close his eyes and pray like his Mama taught him. He loved his Lord and Savior and we all know he is walking with his Mama in heaven's gardens. And he's speaking and seeing and EATING again. We will all miss this little man/boy and remember him always. He is preceded in death by his parents, Leonard John Michalak Sr. and Bernice West. Johnny will be missed by his step-father, Virgil West; siblings, Gerrie Johnson and husband P-Nut, Charlie Michalak and wife Judy, Kenny Michalak and wife Mary; stepbrothers: Mark West, Gary West, Patrick West and wife Georgia, and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Visitation will be from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm Thursday, February 16, 2017 at Brookside Funeral Home with a rosary to be recited at 7:00 pm. Graveside service will be conducted at 10:30 am at Brookside Memorial Park.