Michael “Mike” Protz, 75 of Unicoi, TN, formerly of Florida and Virginia
died Tuesday, August 7, 2018. Born November 11, 1942 in Blairsville, PA, Mike was the youngest of ten children born to the late Anna (Verosky) and Michael Protz. Mike graduated from Blairsville High School in June 1960. He was also a graduate of the University of Maryland with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Accounting. Mike married the former Bonnie Blystone, also of Blairsville, PA in 1971. Having both come from the same town, they were destined to be together, meeting in the Washington D.C. area. Mike was employed by the federal government for 26 years, retiring in 1992. He worked in the finance department within the following agencies; Department of Commerce, Department of Treasury, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Interior, and the Department of the U.S. Navy. His government career came full circle as he enlisted as an active member of the U.S. Navy in 1960. Mike enjoyed traveling with his wife, in particular, their ski trips and cruises around the world. He was an avid gardener and self-taught cook, who prepared dishes using vegetables and herbs from his garden. He took pride in his beautiful flower gardens and landscapes. His love of fishing took him to the Florida Keys and Delaware. Mike loved music and sharing the history of the types of music he enjoyed with his nieces and nephews. He also loved to visit local establishments to hear the talent and sing along. He was the loving, devoted husband to Bonnie, devoted brother to his siblings and beloved uncle to his many wonderful nieces and nephews. Mike is also survived by: his sisters, Terry (Protz) Falik of Philadelphia, PA, Helen (Protz) Mireles of Summerville, SC; sisters-in-law, Garnet (Oaks) Citeroni of Blairsville, PA and Deborah Oaks of Columbiana, OH. In addition to his parents, Mike was also preceded in death by: his brothers, Paul and Vincent; and sister, Anne Anzelone, Betty Gia, Mary Protz, Dorothy Stark, and Margaret Protz. Mike’s smile, sense of humor, laughter and love will be missed by all who had the pleasure of calling him husband, uncle, brother, and friend. The family will receive friends on Saturday, September 29, 2018 from Noon-1 PM, at which time a memorial service will be held at the James F. Ferguson Funeral Home in Blairsville, PA. Rev. Timothy Monroe will officiate. A graveside military service will follow at the S.S. Simon and Jude Cemetery, Blairsville, PA.
www.jamesfergusonfuneralhome.com