Michael “Mike” Robert Pastewski, 59, of LaPorte, IN, formerly of Burnham, IL, passed away peacefully at 8:15 p.m. Monday, Aug. 19, 2019, in his home.
He was born March 31, 1960, in Chicago, IL, to Robert and Margaret (Cadle) Pastewski.
Mike was a fork lift driver for Atkore International, formerly Allied Tube and Conduit, Harvey, IL, for 38 years. He enjoyed watching NASCAR racing, attending drag races and working on his friends’ stock cars. He also enjoyed woodworking, building, working outdoors, having bonfires and setting off fireworks and explosions. His favorite holiday was the 4th of July. Mike was motivated to lend a helping hand to whomever needed it. Mike volunteered at the Heston Steam Museum, helping stock them with their supply of wood to fuel the trains by cutting trees and splitting logs for other people. He was known to many as “Moe” and to his family as “Grandpa Moe.”
Surviving are his mother, Margaret Pastewski of LaPorte; significant other, Gerry Bowman of LaPorte; two children, Lt. Nicholas (Mie) Pastewski of Aiea, HI, and Lisa Westling of Tinley Park, IL; one sister, Debbie (Bill) Koche of LaPorte; two grandchildren, Bryanna and Jacob; one niece, Anne Schmitt of LaPorte; one nephew, Kenny Koche of LaPorte; one great-nephew, Kayden Schmitt; numerous friends; and his beloved dog, Cape.
His father preceded him in death.
Cremation will take place. A graveside service celebrating his life will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 1, at Carmel Cemetery, LaPorte. Burial will follow the service at the cemetery. Lakeview Funeral Home & Crematory, LaPorte, is handling arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the LaPorte County Small Animal Shelter, 2855 W. Ind. 2, LaPorte, IN 46350, in memory of Mike Pastewski.
Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP as well as at www.LakeviewFHC.com.