It is with fathomless sorrow that we announce the passing of Michael Stephen Chick, who left his life on July 27, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on May 23, 1940, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Michael's time on this earth—though many would say far too short, for there could never truly be enough time with a spirit as full as his—was a life rich with purpose, love, and fulfillment.

Michael could never be described by just one word, but if there was one that came to mind for many, it would be strong—in both his will and his physical and emotional strength. Michael was never someone who simply had things handed to him. Instead, he spent his life working hard for everything he had. Without a college degree, he built an impressive career as a salesman, plant manager, RCA, and underwriter for William (Bill) Scranton, while also proudly serving our country in the United States Marine Corps. No matter how many times life knocked him down, Michael was the person others looked to for good advice, a brave face, and unwavering strength.

Despite a career that often demanded long hours, Michael was someone with incredibly diverse interests. Beneath his tough-guy persona was an emotionally intelligent and deeply creative spirit. He had a remarkable way with words, an extraordinary talent for art, and a love for music that filled every room. His paintings will continue to be treasured by his family for generations, while his stories—whether completely true or embellished just enough to make them even better—will forever remain some of the Chick family's greatest treasures. He believed there was beauty and joy everywhere if you simply took the time to appreciate God's creation.

Michael's life was not only defined by his work and creative passions, but above all else by his deep and unwavering faith in God. His Catholic faith shaped the way he loved, served, and cared for others. He faithfully attended Mass, prayed the Rosary, received the Sacraments, and generously supported his parish and many charitable causes. More importantly, he instilled those same values in his family, ensuring that holidays were centered around faith, prayer, and gratitude.

While Michael was proud of all he accomplished, his loved ones know that is not how he would want to be remembered. More than anything, Michael was defined by his love. He had a deep appreciation for the Earth God created and never missed an opportunity to check on those he loved with a weather report—whether to warn them of an approaching storm or remind them to enjoy a beautiful day. Ironically, the day Michael passed was marked by a storm, while the following day brought blue skies, sunshine, and a gentle breeze. To his family, this felt symbolic of the way Michael lived his life. As the saying goes, "Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass; it's about learning to dance in the rain." Michael would never want his family to remain in grief, but instead to celebrate the life he lived—a celebration that will continue through the memories, traditions, and love he leaves behind.

But the greatest expression of Michael's love was the family he built alongside his beloved wife, Ann Marie Chick. Married on August 19, 1967, their lifelong marriage became the foundation of the Chick family and a beautiful example of unwavering devotion. Michael treasured every moment with his children and grandchildren. Whether through a phone call just to check in, celebrating every milestone, preserving family traditions, sharing his Russian heritage alongside his Annie's Italian heritage, or telling unforgettable stories, he made sure his family always knew they were loved. He wanted those traditions, stories, and values to continue long after he was gone.

A private service was held with his loved ones. The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of condolences, thoughts, prayers, and support during this difficult time.

Michael's memory lives on through his beloved wife, Ann Marie Chick; his children, Dawn (Joe) Wankowski, Tonya Hameister, and Michael Chick; and his cherished grandchildren, Thomas and Luke Hameister, Joshua and Mikayla Wankowski, Xavier, Natalya, and Isaiah Chick.

The family would like to close with the words Michael lived by and would undoubtedly want everyone to remember:

"Don't take any wooden nickels."