Michael Alexander Sukennikoff, beloved husband, loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 20, 2017, at home in The Villages, Florida, with his family and friends in attendance after an eleven-year struggle with Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS). He was 78.
Michael was born in New York City, lived in Fairlawn NJ and retired to The Villages with his wife, Delores. He spent his career at United Parcel Service (UPS) and later with APA Transport. Michael was an avid golfer, bowler and reader, known for his sense of humor and loyalty.
During his struggle with ALS, Michael never gave up fighting. When he couldn’t hold a golf club any more, his friends fitted him with a putting shoe so he could still play with them. He was fiercely independent and mentally strong until the end.
Michael found and married his life’s partner Delores on September 20, 1959, and they were married for 57 wonderful years. He is survived by her; their three sons, Allan, Keith and Bruce; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild; a sister, Barbara Millman and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Robert and Jeanette Pace.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions to the ALS Foundation of Tampa in his memory. Their address is: ALS Association Florida Chapter, Inc., 3242 Parkside Center Circle, Tampa FL 33619.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a date to be announced.
