Mr. Michael J. Potoczny 89 of 5437 Croissant Circle North Utica, died Tuesday May 12, 2009 at his residence after a brief illness. Mike as he was known to family and friends was born on September 29, 1919 in New Coalles, Pa., the son of the late Frank and Nellie (Szapla) Potoczny and was educated in schools in New Castle and also Herkimer, New York. A Veteran of World War II he served honorably in the Army from February 1942 until he was discharged in January 1946 with the rank of Staff Sergeant. He served with the 1209 Service Command Unit, earning him the following decorations, American Service Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. His marriage to the former Roselyn M. Prior took place on March 9, 1951 IN Ft. Plain, NY. They celebrated 58 years of marriage this past March. Mike was a self-employed contractor for many years retiring from the business in December of 1980. He was a Life Member of the D.A.V. and the American Legion Post 229 of Utica. His love of the outdoors was evident by his fishing and hunting abilities, along with boating and gardening. He and his wife and daughter Gail also enjoyed wintering in Florida for many years. He is survived by his wife Rose of 58 years, his Son and his wife William and Lynne Potoczny of New Hartford, his daughters Sandra Bihrle of Rochester , Mary C. and her husband Edward Kwiecinski of Utica and Gail Potoczny at home., his 7 Grandchildren and 1 Great grandson, also Nieces and Nephews. He was predeceased by a son Michael on September 18, 2005 and a sister Louise. Funeral services will be held Friday morning at 11 AM at the Heintz Funeral Home 408 Herkimer Road North Utica, with the Rev. Mark Pasik, pastor of St. Mark’s Church offering prayers. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Crown Hill Memorial Park. Calling hours are on Thursday from 5-8 PM. Memorials may be sent to the Hospice Care Inc. 4277 Middle Settlement Rd. New Hartford, NY 13413 or to the American Cancer Society 430 Court Street Utica, New York 13502 in his memory