Michael A. Mraz 1950-2025

Michael was born June 19, 1950, in Youngstown, a son of the late Anthony and Lucy Ambrosio Mraz. He was a lifelong resident of the area, deeply woven into the fabric of the community he loved so dearly.

Mike was a proud graduate of Chaney High School, Class of 1968, where his natural leadership and charm earned him lifelong friendships. He worked for 28 years at Ohio Edison and later at Magna Seating, before continuing his journey at Cornersburg Italian Specialties and Kinnick Funeral Home, where his warm demeanor and dedication touched many lives.

Mike served honorably in the Air Force Reserves, exemplifying his dedication to both his country and his community.

Faith played a central role in Mike’s life. He was a lifelong member of St. Brendan Church, where he served as head usher, a member of the Altar and Rosary Society, and an active participant in numerous church activities. His commitment to community extended beyond the church as a member of the Saxon Club.

His life’s mission was simple yet profound: to bring happiness to others, and he succeeded in abundance.

Mike’s schoolmates affectionately dubbed him “Mayor Mike,” recognizing his remarkable ability to bring people together. He poured his heart into planning class reunions and special events, creating moments of joy and connection that will be remembered by all who attended. “Once a Cowboy, Always a Cowboy!”

Family, friends and tradition were the pillars of Mike’s happiness. He looked forward to his weekly Wednesday breakfasts at Charley’s in Austintown with his classmates and his Monday “guys’ night out” dinners at a variety of local establishments. A devoted fan of The Ohio State Buckeyes, Mike reveled in their triumphs, including witnessing them win the national championship.

Summers brought treasured family vacations to the Outer Banks, where Mike’s meticulous attention to detail earned him the affectionate nickname “The Ambassador.” His Thursdays were often spent playing golf with his buddies at Lakeside Golf Course and he proudly participated in the “Once a Cowboy, Always a Cowboy” annual golf outing. Mike also enjoyed his yearly trout fishing trips with the Boonyack boys, and in his earlier years, he was an avid bowler, enjoying camaraderie and competition alike.

His smile, humor and generosity touched countless lives, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and laughter that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Mike is survived by his wife of 11 years, Donna J. DiNino Mraz, whom he married March 13, 2013; his two children, Jeff (Lina) Mraz of Buford, Georgia, and Mark (Vikki) Mraz of Lakewood; three brothers, Tommy (Anita) Mraz of Bonita Springs, Florida, Anthony Mraz (Carol) of Louisville, Kentucky, and Bobby Mraz (Debbie) of Struthers; a sister, Andrea (James) Travell of South Daytona, Florida; a stepdaughter, Jennifer (Andy) Hake of Mineral Ridge; a stepson, Jason (Colleen) Lorenzi of Boardman; three grandchildren, Gianna, Nico and Auggie; and many extended family members, including MaryLou (Ted) Terlesky, Patti (Jim) Arkwright and Gloria Briya (just to name a few); along with a vast network of dear friends who were like family to him.

Family and friends may call 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown, where a funeral service will take place at 5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, Mike’s family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Michael A. Mraz Memorial Fund in care of the funeral home.

In keeping with the spirit of celebration that Mike embodied, a special gathering will take place this spring to honor his memory, featuring a Buckeyes theme, his favorite foods, drinks, and of course, spumoni. Details of this event will be shared on social media at a later date.

“Mike, your laughter, generosity, and warm heart will forever echo in the lives you touched. You were, and always will be, a true ‘Cowboy.'”

“Go Cowboys! Go Bucks!”

Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to send condolences to Mike’s family.

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