Michael Joseph Miedlar

Michael Joseph Miedlar, born on May 13, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois, passed away on August 3, 2025. He led a remarkable life, characterized by dedication to his career and a deep love for his family. Michael was a proud graduate of Quigley Seminary Prep School, Class of '76, and he went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Notre Dame in 1980. It was at Notre Dame where he met the love of his life, Peggy Kelly, with whom he shared 45 cherished years of marriage. His pride in his wife's accomplishments was often celebrated with beautiful flowers, just because.

Michael began his illustrious career at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in the Aeronautical Systems Division. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to equal opportunity in the workforce shone through as he later founded his own company, American Computational Technical Services (ACTS), while residing in New York. He used this to support the careers and growth of women and those who were often not represented equally at the time in technology and the sciences. He also held positions at Grumman Aerospace and Sikorsky Helicopters in Connecticut. After returning to Dayton, Ohio, he continued to support critical research at Wright Patterson AFB as well as General Electric and many other companies. His career ended at DESIN, with his work on the development of the OBI robotic feeding system, designed to aid individuals with disabilities.

Throughout his life, Michael was known for being a wonderfully complex man—competitive and hard-working, yet profoundly caring and nurturing. He was especially proud of his children, both of whom became successful computer and software engineers, and he took immense joy in the life of his granddaughter, Lilia Anne Miedlar. Michael's passions extended beyond his career; he was an enthusiastic cook and a devoted sports fan, especially college football. He traveled to many states to watch the games, but he was most passionate about Notre Dame football, even taking a journey Ireland to watch them play. His devotion to sports also extended to his hometown team, the Chicago White Sox, and he was a partial owner of the Green Bay Packers. A lover of hockey, he enjoyed an athletic lifestyle, playing roller hockey and racquetball with the same group of friends for over two decades. He also had a love of reading, which was evident in his vast collection of thousands of books on his Kindle, which he carried with him everywhere.

Michael leaves behind his beloved wife, Peggy; his daughter, Theresa Maria Hayes, and her husband, Patrick; his son, Joseph Casimir Miedlar, and his wife, Ashley; and his treasured granddaughter, Lilia, and grandchildren Lindsay Michelle Shirk (Matt), Brenna Nichole Hilkey (Cassidy), Liam Patrick Hayes (Madison), and Colin Lathan Hayes, as well as great-grandchildren: Eleanor Cloud Hayes and Carter Nathan Hilkey. He will be greatly missed by his siblings, Karen Krowzack, Linda Kurth (John), Nancy Ossmann (Thomas), and Mark Miedlar (Lynn), siblings-in-law, Kathleen Fisher (Frank), Terrence Kelly (Kathryn), Molly Lehman (Terry), Shawn Kelly (Kim), Kevin Kelly (Brenda), Michael Kelly (Lisa), Larry Kelly (Tina), and Brendon Kelly (Roya); along with numerous nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

Michael was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Anne Miedlar; his parents-in-law, Lawrence and Patricia Kelly; his sister, Jennie Miedlar; and his brothers-in-law, Frank Krowzack and Timothy Kelly. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

A visitation will be held from 5:00pm to 7:00pm on Monday, August 18, 2025 at Newcomer North Chapel, 4104 Needmore Road, in Dayton, Ohio. In honor of Michael's love for sport, please wear your favorite team jersey. 

On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, visitation will take place from 10:00am to 11:00am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Peter Catholic Church, 6161 Chambersburg Road, in Huber Heights, OH.

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