Michael J. Trait's Obituary
Michael J. Trait, 77, of Clay, NY, passed away unexpectedly February 13, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Kilkenny, Ireland, and was a U.S. Army veteran. Michael retired as a Service Forman from Johnson Control and was a member of Local 267 Plumbers and Steamfitters. He was the son of Patrick and Johanna Trait, and came to this country at age 20. He served our country in the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War as an Irish citizen, before becoming an American citizen. He was a member of the Hibernian Club, The American Legion, and Lakeshore Yacht & Country Club. He adored his family, his wife to whom he was married for 50 years, his three daughters, his grandchildren, and his sons-in-law. His love extended beyond his family to his many friends, Twin Trees “coaches”, and the Boston University tailgate crew. He never stopped telling stories about his days and co-workers at Johnson Controls. He was known for his genuine heart and gentle soul, his warm smile, sparkling eyes, and particularly his gift of gab. He was a “Jack of all Trades” and when anybody needed anything, he always answered the call. He was an avid golfer, particularly with his best buddy and brother-in-law Sam. He loved to dance, was the life of the party, and loved a pint of Smithwick’s with his brother-in-law Chris. He enjoyed his Cape Cod fishing excursions with his sons-in-law, Donald, Eric, and Steve, and many friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, Patrick and Johanna (Ryan) Trait and five siblings.
Michael is survived by his loving wife, Annemarie (Bisesi) Trait; three daughters, Tricia (Eric) Trait-Manning of Baldwinsville, Laurie (Steve) Trait-Lutes of Wesley Chapel, FL., and Karen (Donald) Trait-O’Malley of Cape Cod, MA; five grandchildren, Hanna, Keri, Meghan, Michael and soon to be Kaitlyn; three brothers, John (Mary Margaret) of N. Syracuse, Martin (Teresa Coogan) of Ireland, and James (Teresa) of Ireland; two sisters, Rose (Patrick) Dowling of Texas and Joan (Tony) Murphy of Ireland; brother-in-law, Samuel (Joanne) Bisesi; sister-in-law, Rosanne (Christopher) Didio; first cousin, Fredrick (Jeanne) Intondi, along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.
To Dad, you were our hero, our cheering section, our shoulder to lean on no matter what, our voice of reason…there are really no words to describe you; you were beyond special. Our hearts are forever broken, and we will keep you in our lives with all of our wonderful memories.
A Funeral Mass in celebration of Michael’s life will be held on Saturday, March 23, 2019 at 10:00 am in St. Rose of Lima Church, North Syracuse. Burial will follow in North Syracuse Cemetery. Family and friends may call from 5:00 – 8:00 pm on Friday, March 22, 2019 at THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY.
The family thanks the emergency room staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital for their kindness.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of CNY, 990 7th North St., Liverpool, NY 13088.
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