Michael was more than just my uncle; he was a mentor, a friend, and a constant source of support in my life. His laughter filled our family gatherings with joy, and his wisdom guided us through challenging times and, I am grateful for the many moments we shared together…moments that I will cherish forever.

One of my fondest memories of Michael was when he first moved to Florida and carried on the yearly tradition of dropping presents from afar “flying above” to the kiddos in Philadelphia.  In that moment, I realized just how special he was—his ability to spread his cheer, love and continued happiness no matter where he was. 

He had a way of bringing people together, making connections, and making everyone feel like they belonged. Whether it was through his love for sports, gratitude and love for his kids,  grandkids, nieces and nephews or simply by being himself in all his wonderfulness he made a profound impact on those around him. 

Michael taught us the importance of family unity, being present for each other even if it was through a lemon meringue pie fight, Whipped cream attacks or simply having the right cup of coffee for his cookies.  These lessons will continue to resonate within us, guiding us as we move forward without his physical presence.

As we gather here in grief, let us also celebrate the incredible life he lived. Let us remember the laughter, the love, and the countless ways he enriched our lives. his spirit will live on in our hearts and in the stories we share.

Thank you, Uncle Michael for the memories, the lessons, and the love you have given us. We will carry you with us always.

May you rest knowing you did good, you raised a great family, you’ve warmed a great home and you left a legacy for us to remember always,
challenging us all to make you proud.

My deepest condolences, to Carmen and the rest of the family. I am very sorry for your loss. I will cherish the memories I was to be a part of with you and your family. I am truly thankful for the times you and Michael welcomed me into your home and treated me just like family. I still remember the days me and Chris weren’t able to drive and Michael would drive us to places we needed to go. I also remember listening to the sports station, as a baseball game was on. He definitely loved his sports. 
I am very thankful for you both welcoming me to family events as well. You and Michael are very special people and his legacy will forever live on in our hearts. I am sending you my love and support as you navigate through this difficult time. I will be keeping you and the family in my prayers.


-Love, 
     Henry

Our sincere condolences to Carmen and the rest of the family.  Annette and I have lived across the street for seven years, time has a way of slipping by and opportunities for friends are missed.  We have always been friendly by waving and speaking across the street.  Every time I went out front, Mike was always doing something in the garage or yard.  I told him more than once if he needed help to let me know but he never did.  I always noticed if he were going somewhere he would invariably have one or more of the grandchildren with him so I knew he had to be a loving and caring grandfather.  After reading all the stories about him I’m truly sorry I missed the chance to get to know him better. 
Carmen if you or the family need anything please don’t hesitate to let Annette or I know.

My deepest condolences to Carmen and the Family.  So sorry Jessica and I will not be able to attend the services.  Mike was my coworker, teammate, buddy and forever connected.  From starting with USPS in the 70's, playing on the same championship softball team, being in his wedding party, having the same birthday (always argued about who was older), our wives having the same birthday and having the same USPS career paths.  Always competitive with each other and arguing like brothers, but respecting each other's work ethic and ability to get things accomplished.  Still in touch, teasing with each other and those in our postal family well into retirement.  His love for  his family, especially  his grand children, was alway obvious and a topic of discussion.  He will be surely missed but not forgotten!

Tony Cal

To the Nastawa family, 

Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss.  May your beloved spouse/dad/uncle/grandpa's memories bring comfort during this challenging time.

Mike, what can I possibly say that hasn’t already been said? You were the kind of person who gave without expecting anything in return, always putting others before yourself. It was an honor and a privilege to call you my brother-in-law.

43 years ago, you married my sister and built a beautiful life together. You didn’t just create a family; you built a legacy. Together, you raised two remarkable sons who are a true reflection of your values. Your grandkids adored you, and the joy they felt in your presence is something that will always live in their hearts.

I’ll never forget the times we shared, like coaching my very first softball team back in New Jersey. Your leadership, encouragement, and passion almost took us to a league championship. But more than that, you taught me lessons I’ve carried with me throughout my life—how to lead with integrity and how to help others selflessly. Those lessons have played a major part in shaping me as the person I am today.

Your passing has left a void that’s impossible to fill, and we’re all struggling to make sense of it. A piece of our family is missing now, but your kindness, your laughter, and the love you shared will remain in our memories and hearts forever.

Rest in peace, Mike, my brother. You’ve left us far too soon, but your legacy will live on in all of us who were blessed to know and love you.

Love,
Ralph

Dad was the one, no matter the need,  
The first to show up, the first to heed.  
When life was heavy, and hope was thin,  
He’d stand by me, through thick and thin.  

No task too big, no job too small,  
Dad was there, for one and all.  
With every choice, no matter how wild,  
He’d always be there, showing love for his child.  

For the grandkids, he was pure light,  
FaFa, Grandpa, their world so bright.  
Pushing strollers, playing games,  
Filling their hearts with love that remains.  

Every Sunday, football was king,  
We’d gather around, hear Dad sing.  
"Commissioner's privilege," he'd wink with pride,  
Changing the rules, always on his side.  

But those games weren’t just for fun,  
It was about family, each and everyone.  
Laughter, joy—those days we will treasure,  
They were the moments we’d always measure.  

Dad worked hard, never slowed down,  
Tireless and true, he wore no crown.  
But it was with us, in simple grace,  
That he found peace, in our embrace.  

He’d give it all, no matter the cost,  
Because to him, family was never lost.  
In every quiet moment, every simple act,  
He showed us love, and that’s a fact.  

He’s gone now, but his love still stays,  
Guiding us through the toughest of days.  
In every heart, his spirit remains,  
Forever with us, through joy and pains.

My deepest condolences to my friend Chris and his family. Me and Chris Nastawa went to school together and became good friends. And when me and Chris were on on the same team in the Edison boys little league baseball team Mr. Nastawa would always come our games. I remember Mr. Nastawa helping me get better at pitching and thought me a lot. He help out all the players in the team. I’ll always remember him as a good kind man. May he rest in peace.

To The Nastawa Family,

We are deeply saddened to hear of Mr. Mike’s passing.  He would always wave or say hello when he would go to Chris and Michelle’s.  Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. May his family and friends find comfort in the memories that they shared with Mr. Mike and the love that surrounded him.  

The Rigdon Family

To my uncle:
Uncle Mike, you always had a way of making everything special. Growing up, you always made me feel like I was your favorite niece, and your love and care left a lasting impression on my heart. You went above and beyond in so many ways, creating memories I’ll always cherish. All of the Christmas’s, all of the years coming to your house in Edison to swim or you teaching me how to play horseshoes to the personalized corn hole boards you’ve made, I’ll remember every memory. Even as the years passed, every time I visited, you made me feel just as loved and special as ever. Your kindness, warmth, and thoughtfulness will never be forgotten. You are truly one of a kind, and I am so grateful to have had you in my life as my uncle❤️ 

Love always,
Brianna (your favorite niece)

To My Brother-in-Law:  As you know we are totally devasted  by the sudden loss of your presence:  My heartfelt note to you is that you always know that it was my honor to always have you as my spades partner and always having my back no matter how many times I screwed up the game and  even if I made you lose, you never gave up on me for that you  deserved  a gold star.  I thank you for those late night cups of coffee and those special trips you made to Starbucks for me .  You will always hold a very special place in my heart ❤️ and will never be forgotten and deeply missed! Love Sue!

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Michael was predeceased by his parents; John and Irene Nastawa, as well as his brother; Joseph Nastawa, is survived by his loving wife, Carmen I. Nastawa, along with his sons and their spouses, Kevin Nastawa and Daryssa, as well as Christopher Nastawa and Michelle. His grandchildren—Gabriella, Dahlia, Daniel, Logan, and Lukas—will hold onto the loving memories they created with him. Michael is also survived by his sisters, Barbara Sobczyk and Lorraine Kenney, as well as his brother, Vincent Nastawa, who will continue to honor his legacy.

OBITUARY

Michael John Nastawa

February 1, 1955 – November 27, 2024

Hardage - Giddens Holly Hill Funeral Home & Hardage-Giddens Holly Hill Memorial Park

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