Michael Joseph Stanzione

Michael Joseph Stanzione, 70, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

Born on January 25, 1954, Michael was the cherished son of the late Louis and Frances (Leonard) Stanzione.

He graduated from Williamsport Area High School in 1972 before earning his degree from Lock Haven University in 1978. Michael dedicated his professional life to education, beginning as a substitute teacher at his alma mater. His passion for helping students grow led him to serve as the principal of the Vo-Tech at WACC. Later, his love for sports and mentoring found its perfect outlet as the athletic director at Pennsylvania College of Technology. He also proudly coached collegiate-level baseball, leaving a lasting impact on countless athletes before his retirement.

In 2010, Michael received the Robert J. Scannell Roll-of-Honor Award from the Pennsylvania State University Athletic Conference. In 2012, Michael was inducted into the Pennsylvania College Athletic Hall of Fame. He also received the Bill Byham Service in Sports award. Whether coaching baseball or simply being a constant source of encouragement, Michael was always there for his family.

Family was everything to Michael. He and his wife, Diane, recently celebrated 38 wonderful years of marriage, filled with love and devotion. His children, Matthew and Micah, were his pride and joy. Michael’s passion for coaching extended beyond the baseball field–he guided Matthew in life as a father, friend, and mentor. His bond with Micah was just as strong; the two shared daily adventures, from their routine Dunkin’ runs to attending Crosscutters games together.

Later in life, Michael’s greatest joy came from being a grandfather, or “PawPaw,” to Ella, Emmett, and Elijah. He was a daily presence in their lives, whether on fun-filled golf cart rides at the family cabin in Cascade Township or simply spending quality time together. His grandchildren adored him, and the memories they shared will be cherished forever.

A man of deep faith, Michael was grounded by his trust in God. He was a devoted member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church and also enjoyed worshiping alongside his family at Pine Street United Methodist Church.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Diane (Daneker) Stanzione; his two sons, Matthew (Amanda) and Micah Stanzione; his three grandchildren, Ella, Emmett, and Elijah; his sister, Bernadette Deitrick (Dennis); and several extended family members.

A memorial service to honor the life of Michael will be held 1 p.m. Saturday, October 19 at Pine Street United Methodist Church, 441 Pine St., Williamsport. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, October 18 at Knight-Confer Funeral Home 1914 Memorial Ave., Williamsport.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, honoring Michael’s legacy of giving and love for children, or Shephard of the Streets, 320 Park Ave, Williamsport, PA 17701.

Online condolences may be made on Michael’s memorial page at www.KnightConferFuneralHome.com.