John Hubert Michel, Jr.

John Hubert Michel, Jr. Shaler Township PA

John Michel was born on February 27, 1941, in Pittsburgh, PA tohis parents John and Josephine Michel. He passed unexpectedly and peacefully on March 23, 2023, at home with his loving wife Leanne (Daisy) Michel, as he wanted. 

He grew up in Shadyside attending Sacred Heart Grade School, Central Catholic and then, Peabody High School. John attendedDuquesne University eventually graduating with a master’s degree in education. He was the Sports Editor of the Duquesne Duke newspaper, worked at the university radio station, Catholic Youth Organizations, played in numerous baseball leagues and worked at Channel 4 news. 

On January 3rd, 1964, he married the love of his life, Leanne Joy (Daisy) Underwood and they raised six children.  John III (Linda), Steve, Dan (Barbara) Monica, Erin, and Derik. He was an awesome Dad. 

After moving to Shaler Township Pa to start his family, he worked at Saint Bonaventure School for 38 years teaching 7th and 8th grade.  He loved teaching kids. Many students described him as their favorite and an “iconic” teacher. He was awarded the prestigious Golden Apple Award in 1997 from the Diocese of Pittsburgh for his career in Catholic education. 

He enjoyed sports, Penn State sports, baseball, reading the newspaper, old time radio and TV, and seemed most at peace coaching baseball.  He loved his summers on the baseball field. He was a board member, tournament organizer, coach, and manager of DeHaven Baseball Association for two generations.   

In addition to his wife, sons and daughters, John is survived by Grandchildren John IV, Meredith, Deven, Ian, Maya, Michael, Lea and Josie. He was Pop-E to them and always will be. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Mary and brother Richard. His youngest brother Jim resides in Arizona. 

Visitation at Neely Funeral Home, Shaler Township, PA, Thursday March 30, 2023, 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM. 

Funeral Mass at Saint Bonaventure Roman Catholic Church, Shaler Township PA., 10 AM, Friday March 31st.  EVERYONE PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH.

In lieu of flowers, please listen to Don McLean’s American Pie and be grateful for all the teachers and coaches who helped make you who you are today.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Hubert Michel, Jr., please visit our floral store.