Michael Luty

Michael Luty loving father, grandfather, great grandfather and great great-grandfather

Olean- Michael Luty of Martin St., Olean, passed away Friday (November 10, 2023), at his home.

Michael, son of John and Victoria Jonak Luty, was born on March 30, 1928 in Olean.

A graduate of Olean High School, Michael joined the U.S. Marine Corps in November 1945. He was stationed in Washington DC and attained the rank of Sergeant. From October 1950 until November 1951, he worked as a Staff Sergeant recruiter in Olean. He made many lifelong friendships while serving in the Marines.

In June 1952, Michael joined the Olean Police Department. He and Art Filjones had many adventures during their years as patrolmen. He was promoted to Sergeant, then Lieutenant. He attended the FBI National Academy’s Advanced Police Training program in 1961. In 1968, Michael was promoted to Police Chief. In 1993, he retired after serving as chief for 25 years.

Michael was a former member of Transfiguration Church and currently a member of St. Joseph’s Maronite Church in Olean. He served on many local boards, and was a member of several local organizations. He was a proud founding member of the WNY Police Chief’s Association.

In his retirement, he traveled to Poland, Italy, Hawaii and several other places. He enjoyed gardening, visiting with friends and family, and reading. Michael also loved a competitive game of rummy.

Michael married Theresa Sokolowski on July 15, 1950 in Olean. They enjoyed 67 happy years together.

Michael is survived by five daughters and one son; Nancy (Brian) Donnelly, Beverly Bennett, Christine (Daniel) Proto, Kathy (Terry) Covert, Connie (Gary) Barth, and John (Renee) Luty. He truly loved his fifteen grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren, and one great great-grandson. Each one was Dziadzia’s favorite. He is also survived by two sisters; Irene Sassone and Helen Rakus, and several nieces and nephews.

Michael was predeceased by his wife, Theresa, and his parents; his brothers, Ted Luty and John Luty; and two son’s in-law, Stephen Olkosky and Edward Bennett.

Friends are invited to a visitation at Guenther Funeral Home, Inc. 1303 E. State St, Olean on Tuesday (November 14, 2023) from 6-8pm and Wednesday (November 15, 2023) from 10-11am at St. Joseph’s Maronite Catholic Church with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11am. Burial will be in St. Bonaventure Cemetery with military honors accorded by the Allegany American Legion.

Memorials if desired may be made to St. Joseph’s Maronite Church or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com.