Marian Szwanke (Dorchester) passed away peacefully on February 19, after a lengthy battle with many non covid related health complications. “Big Mike” as he was known by others was 67 years old.
Born in Lodz, Poland, Mike immigrated to Boston when he was 11 years old, and spent the rest of his life in Dorchester’s Polish Triangle. He went on to meet the love of his life, Joan Szwanke (late of Dorchester), whom he married and together they had three three children; Michael, Veronika and Maria.
Everyone who knew Mike would agree he was a “spicy character” as he was once referred to by one of his doctors. Mike was an incredibly hard working man, opening a very successful machine shop, GEM Machine Shop on Freeport Street, and later becoming a custodian for Boston Public Schools, following his desire for better work hours. During Mike’s free time he enjoyed collecting things that were of interest to him and offering a hand to others when something needed to be fixed.
Mike will be missed by his children, his 5 grandchildren; John, Gloria, Angelina, Keira and Rose, and his many friends.
Funeral arrangements TBA at a future date at a time of less restrictions. In lieu of flowers The Szwanke Family asks you to make a donation to a charity of your choice. Or, as Mike would prefer, perform an act of kindness for a stranger.