Michael E. Protiva

Michael E. Protiva, age 57, of Newton Falls, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at St. Joseph Hospital in Warren. He was born on June 8, 1953 in Warren, a son of the late Thomas James Protiva and Helen Yavelak Protiva-Adams. Michael was a very proud retired union mill wright and pile drivers, Local 1871 and had a very close and personal relationship with God. He was a member of the Cortland Masonic Lodge and was a 32nd Degree Mason. Michael enjoyed gardening and was well known for his hot peppers and homemade sauerkraut. He enjoyed the camaraderie of his friends and making trips to Mountaineer Casino. He was an avid Cleveland Indians fan as well as a NASCAR fan. Michael will be sadly missed by all who knew him. He leaves behind his wife, Debra S. Largen Protiva whom he married on July 13, 2007; his mother, Helen Protiva-Adams of Fowler, two sons, Brandon Protiva of Fowler and Ryan Protiva of Fowler, step son, Christopher (Danielle) Gerlt of West Farmington, three brothers, Thomas (Renee) Protiva of Johnston, William (Deborah) Protiva of Vienna and Steven (Karen) Protiva of West Farmington. Also surviving are two step granddaughters, Gia and Jillian, two nephews, Matt and Tyler Protiva and two nieces, Haley Protiva and Lauren Stein. Michael was preceded in death by his father and a sister, Cathy Protiva-Stein. The family will receive friends on Thursday, February 3, 2011 from 6 pm – 8 pm at the Shafer-Winans Funeral Chapel in Cortland. Services will be held at 8 pm Thursday evening at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family at the funeral home. Family and fiends may view this obituary and send condolences at www.shaferwinanschapel.com