Michael P. Panko, Jr, 82, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on January 10, 2026

He was predeceased by his parents, Michael and Helen (Mitchell) Panko; and his infant brother, Peter, of Binghamton, NY.

He is survived by his wife (the love of his life for 62 years), Barbara Jean (Gowe); his daughter, Teri (Todd) Vasina; his daughter, Tina (Jon) Tyler; his son, Michael “Monk” (Kelly) Panko; and five incredible grandchildren, TommiLynn Vasina, Michael Panko, Gabrielle Panko, Dominick Panko, and Briana Panko; one brother, Joseph (Sandy) Panko; also several nieces, nephews and cousins. 

He worked at Binghamton Psychiatric Center in the electrical and maintenance department and retired as supervisor in 1986, then branched out on his own and along with Barbara, they built and operated Panko Electrical & Maintenance for 40+ years.

Mike’s nickname was “Pokey”; however, anyone who knew him knows he was anything but.   He was a man full of energy who loved people; he lived and led by example with a kind and giving heart, a positive attitude, a quick wit and sense of humor, a hard work ethic and commitment to going above and beyond were all some of his best attributes.   Mike lived life to the fullest and is now enjoying a new everlasting peace.  He enjoyed hunting, golf, and nonstop putzing; but he absolutely LOVED spending his weekends/free time at his cottage in Goose Bay, which he named “The Living Years”.  A place where the hummingbirds were always fed, the family boat rides to see the bridge and castle always led him to dropping anchor with his very good friends, and then he would close out his day with the most magnificent sunsets that he had ever seen. 

We would like to thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts, including our  “like-a-daughter” Christine Travis; our angel and incredible caregiver of five years, Darci (love you SFAM); our many friends for their faithful support, encouragement, and prayers; our talented doctors and nurses for their care of him; our Panko Electric employees and customers who helped us grow over the years – without you, there was no us.

A funeral mass will be offered by Rev. John Brusa on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 1PM at St. James Roman Catholic Church, 147 Main Street, Johnson City, NY 13790; where the family will receive friends from 11am until 1PM. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Guthrie Hospice, 4102 Old Vestal Road, Vestal NY 13850 or to the charity of one’s choice.  Services are under the direction of the Chopyak-Scheider Funeral Home.