Michael Godzak Jr., 59, of Webster, Pennsylvania, died suddenly on Sunday, April 29, 2018. When returning from a fire call as the engine driver, Michael would have normally backed the truck into the station. This day was different. Instead, he stopped on the street in front of the station and exited the vehicle. He became ill and collapsed to the ground. His firefighter brothers and sisters came to his aid, doing all that they could until paramedics arrived. He was transported to Monongahela Valley Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Michael joined the Rostraver Township Volunteer Fire Department No.1 in 1970 as a junior member at age 12. He became a regular member of the department in 1976 at age 18. Michael was dedicated to the fire department. During his tenure he held every line office within the department, including nine years as chief. At the time of his death, he was first captain. Michael was active in the Southwestern Pennsylvania Chiefs Association, Westmoreland County Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs Association, and was an instructor at the California University of Pennsylvania Fire School.

Michael graduated from Belle Vernon Area High School in 1976. He worked at Webster Auto Parts and Fuel Company, eventually buying the business and running it for ten years. He was a purchasing manager at Alumisourse Corp. in Monessen, Pennsylvania. People often called him “the Mayor of Webster” because of his love for his hometown. Michael was honest, intelligent, kind, and had a heart of gold. He loved music and was passionate about playing his trombone.

Michael was the son of the late Michael and Elma (McFeely) Godzak Sr. He is survived by his sister, Margaret (James) Winchester, of California. He will be dearly missed by family and friends.