My condolences to the entire Hackman family, especially to Chelsea, Sean and Charlene. Thank you for being a father figure, a mentor, an older brother and a friend. We have been friends for over 20 years, starting with you being my mentor with the Big Brother Big Sisters of America mentorship program in my high school. You were a father figure that I desperately needed when my father passed away at the age of 9. You were a figure of accountability, holding me accountable when I dropped out of high school. You were my cheerleader, the first person that I called when I received my GED and went for both of my undergraduate degrees. You are my inspiration, you inspired me to obtain my Master's degree, that I dedicated to you and Charlene. I will always be there for your family as you were there for mines. So grateful that you got to meet my wife Ashley as well as my bright son Nathan. Thank you for letting my family be a part of your family and I only hope to even be a fraction of the decent human being you are my friend. 

Charlene,

3 years- wow!  Michael was always kind to us at the Putaway!

May your healing continue.
Marita

I am at a loss as I just found this out. My wife and I are both blind and just heard his name mentioned on YouTube. I was looking to see if there was a way to send him a thank you email for his advice. It was `I can tread water as long as you can make it rain". For a one time conversation with an amazing intellect, I still remember the remark and sill live by it at 72 years old and going.
Deeply mourning the loss of a casual but very meaningful chance meeting,

Larry Wayne Dickerson
Malad City, ID


I was shocked and saddened to hear of Michael's passing. I first met Michael in 1960 when he was just 4 years old. His brother Dick and I had recently met as freshmen at Devon Prep - early on in what would become a lifelong friendship. When you were friends with one Hackman, you quickly became friends with all of them, and yes, that included Howard and Catherine. That's just the way it was with this extraordinary family. So, even though I was 10 years older than Michael, I spent countless hours with him over the years - on the basketball court, on the football field, around the dinner table. So many wonderful memories, filled with friendly competition, fun, and of course, laughter. I feel so lucky - privileged, actually - to have had this time with Michael, and every member of the very special Hackman family. My wife Marge and I offer our condolences to Michael's family and friends. You are in our thoughts and prayers. 

I played soccer with Mike for a lot of years. He was always level headed, calm, and kind. He was a great teammate. I wish his family comfort & peace. 

Hackman family,
I had the pleasure of knowing Michael through UIF and one memorable tennis match. 

Michael set a standard of hard work, positivity and optimism at UIF.  His unwavering belief in the power of education and mentoring sent positive ripples throughout schools and students.  Michael went out of his way to support all elements of UIF and was always there for the students or startups that we worked with. 

Michael was a huge mentor of mine as a leader in the nonprofit space and advocate of the outdoors.  

I miss Michael dearly and will forever hold him in my heart.  

Charlene, Chelsea and Sean,

I just heard the sad news from Liz Haynos. Michael was a wonderful man and a great neighbor. I always remember our Vermont ski trip to Smugglers Notch Years ago. He was a thoughtful, caring friend and always treated our kids well. He will be missed.

Alex, Ann, Austin and Georgia Smith

Charlene and Family,

I was very sad to hear about Mike’s passing.  I have played soccer with Mike for the last 6 or 7 years and have always enjoyed his company.  He would always ask about my kids at PSU and how they were doing.  

He will be truly missed on Wednesday nights at USTC.  Last night after our game, our team got together and toasted a few beers in his honor.  Rest In Peace Mike.

Charlene, Sean, Chelsea and family, 

Words don't seem to be enough to describe how shocking and sad the news of Michaels passing is to me.   I saw him on his bike the Sunday before the accident on Sugartown road- trotting along. He did not recognize me but I had seen him leave our neighborhood at the same time earlier that day.   
Every time I saw him he was either busy, smiling, or both.  Conversations in your driveway were so easy with him and he never forgot to ask about each of my kids, especially Nate.  
He always remembered my families ski adventures and wanted details!  
Most importantly,  my kids grew up in your driveway!!  Mr. Hackmans house was their destination every morning to catch the bus, and maybe even sometimes play a little too loudly, (Sorry Sean).
Baxter and Cody had many a run around his legs, and Micheal always had time to give Cody some much loved attention. 
The girls are  too small to remember, but Nate, Scott and I will never forget him filling up the pool in the street with a beer in his hand for our July 4th parties.  
Heaven has taken him too soon, but I hope and pray that the memories can get you each through this difficult time.   It's hard to believe that God has a plan in times like these, but maybe it's the most important time to try. 
Love and Prayers 

Michael was one of the kindest most generous persons I have met and a fierce and fun competitor on the tennis court.  All of our love and support to Charlene and the family. Michael will be badly missed.

Mike and Liz Steinley



The last time I spoke with Mike was in the neighborhood recently as he stopped in his car to chat with me.  At some point in our brief conversation, he mentioned he just had a birthday, and being a few years older than me, I proceeded to mess with him and called him an old man.  He gave me a "yeah, right" look and then told me in a matter of fact , non-bragging way that he had just finished up kayaking for the day, and needed to go because he was late for his soccer game (or maybe it was a tennis match).  As he pulled away, I remember thinking, somewhat embarrassingly, "Old man not!  That dude puts me to  shame."   Although the hood has lost a wonderful neighbor whose ever-present smile and friendly banter will be sorely missed,  Mike's  positive energy and enthusiasm for life will forever be an inspiration to me, and I am certain to many others as well.

Charlene and Family:

Dawn and I know Michael and Charlene from a bbq or two and the tennis courts. Michael was an avid competitor, a great guy to carpool with and a pleasure to raise a glass with as well.   We will miss him.

Our condolences on his early passing , and congratulations on the example he set.   I'll raise a glass in his memory tonight.

Joe and Dawn Mullen  

Mike was such a great person and so fun to be with. I loved playing soccer with him along side of me. Hey kept me honest and focused. A great leader that I was proud to know and introduce as a friend. He was always asking about the kids and college plans, etc genuinely interested in me and my family.  

My condolences to the Hackman family. I was so sad hearing of the passing of Michael Hackman. I am Frank Clement's mother. We meant Mike when Frank was a young man attending Fierre charter School.  Michael Hackman was not only a big brother to Frank . He was his mentor an ear to listen , and a positive influence in his life .  I Thank God ! To have met Mike ! God's continued comfort , and strength to his family!

My Condolences to the Hackman Family.   I had the pleasure of playing soccer with Mike for about 20 years and we were on the same team for a number of those years.   Mike was thoughtful, kind, and witty.   He will certainly be missed by those of us that played soccer with him.   My thoughts and prayers are with you all.  Rest in peace Mike.  
Mark

Charlene, Sean, Chelsea & family

Thank you for sharing Michael with us these past 25 years. He was the nicest of human beings and his life embodied that in every way possible. He will be a part of our hearts forever.

Ron Silliman & family
Orchard Road



Mr Hackman was one of the kindest people I’ve ever met. He also had the most contagious smile! He loved his family unconditionally. He will be missed by so many. 

I had the pleasure of working with Michael at the Pennsylvania Prison Society over 30 years ago and have remained in touch, on and off, since then.  I would seek his advice on jobs and work issues as well as Temple, kids, and houses. It never mattered if there was a gap of weeks or months or years, as his humor and practical wisdom were readily given.  We met with another former colleague this past fall and shared stories about the old days -- over three decades ago. It was great to get together and I am so glad we had the opportunity to do so.  

I am so sad that Michael has passed but realize how fortunate I have been to know him. Charlene and family, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Ann Schwartzman, Colleague and Friend


You were truly one of the good guys. Definitely taken to soon.  Rest In Peace brother.

I worked with Mike at the PA Prison Society back in the 80s. (Oddly enough, I just saw him for the first time in decades a couple of months ago.) There was always a sense of lightness and hope about Mike — he exuded positivity.  As I’ve been reading some of the memories here, I can’t but smile — there is a wonderful consistency in what people say about Mike.  The caring, the humor, the dedication — and I would add to that — a deep sense of humility.  It was never about Mike.  It was about the people, the work, the vision — but not about him.  

Mike will be deeply missed, but hopefully, we can all take a bit of his spirit and make it part of ours.  We need more of Mike’s kind of spirit in the world.

This is one of the times, you raise your fists to heaven with tear stained eyes and ask God , why? That , my friends is the sorrow we share with Job. Than the overwhelming silence that shakes you to the bone, remind you that you were given such a honor to have met Michael. To the family my heart felt , sincere condolences. There is no sorrow that love can not conquer.  

My Condolences to Charlene, Sean, Chelsea and her family.

My Condolences to the entire Hackman Family.  I was one of many who came to the Hackman household as a guest (beginning 4th or 5th grade) and welcomed immediately into whatever game was being played at the time.  Hackman’s are inclusive regardless of your age or abilities.  A lifelong trait of Michaels.

Michael was kind, thoughtful and funny.  There are too many stories.  We lost a wonderful person.  

My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Steve Long


To the Hackmans,

I am so lucky to have grown up with your family, and I will miss Michael dearly. Michael was such a wonderful person who always treated me with a generosity of kindness. His enthusiasm and spirit was infectious. I loved spending time with him. Michael had an incredible impact on so many lives. Charlene, Chelsea, Sean - I cannot express how sorry I am.  I wish I could hug all of you. I am sending all my love. 

Charlene I was so sorry to hear about Michael. He was someone who was a rarity in this day and age a truly nice man. You and the
family are in my prayers.
All my love to you all,  Betty

Please accept my condolences on Mike's sudden passing. I had met Mike through various adult soccer programs, and even saw him on the tennis courts from time to time. Mike was truly a first-class person whose generous nature was always evident. May his family and friends find comfort in this difficult time.

I met Michael in 2006 for the Big Brother Big Sister program in my high school. He took me under his wing and stressed to me the importance of education. When I dropped out of school, he was very disappointed in me. I never forgot about the impact he left on me and the proudest moment was when I showed him my GED that I obtained because he believed in me. I can go on forever, he was there for me when I graduated with both degrees, when I was married, when my son was birthed, literally every big thing in my life. He was a father to me, I loved him and the family dearly and I grieve along with everyone. He will be missed.

Michael was one of the nicest people I have ever known. He was always upbeat, interested in other people, and willing to help in any reasonable ways. He was a tremendous asset to our great Valley Hills Hood. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. 

Our best to Charlene and the rest of his entire family. May God help lessen the sense of loss you must be feeling in your deep bereavement.

 

I am beyond saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Michael.  We all had so much fun on and off the courts.  I always hoped I’d find the kind of love that he and Charlene shared for one another; always giggling, smiling and holding hands;  their eyes twinkled for one another!  Michael was such a kind and all around genuine man.  I always enjoyed hearing his stories of traveling and the experiences he and his family shared.  
Sending heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Charlene and the family.  May he Rest In Peace. 
My deepest sympathies, 
Katie Kearney Mathew 

I had the fortunate opportunity to know Mike through Tennis and Paddle. He was always welcoming and gracious win or lose. A total gentleman. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his wife , daughter, son and extended family. 

Dear Charlene and Sean, 
I am blessed to have know Michael for the past 3 years.  I understood his love to be active and for the outdoors! I will miss his smiling face in the office tremendously.  Michael always made it a point to check in with me to see "how things were going". He had a really big heart! 

He was a great leader in the UIF community and loved engaging with everyone who entered into UIF.  I am so sorry for you loss and will continue to pray for you and your family during this tragic time! 

With love and light,
Christine 


I will still look for you at the next reunion.  Always.

My deepest condolences to the Hackman Family. Praying for the family during this difficult time. He was a wonderful man. I was in Michael's elementary class at Rowland and then in 1979 we both graduated the same year at Penn State University. I would run into him once in awhile when he was in the Wayne area. 
Praying that God's love will comfort the family
Lydia Freeman

To All the Hackmans - all hundreds of you - we are so, so sad for you. As a lifelong friend of his sister, Ellen, I can't believe he isn't still alive and influencing her in all his positive ways. Michael was the one least likely to hurt the new guys at the Turkey Bowls over the decades. Most likely to pour a pitcher, have a good story. I ran into him at the Philly Open paddle tourney a few years ago (may have called him Paul, but they did start to look more alike over the years....) and was so happy to see one of the Hackman clan. Much love to Charlene and his children--one of the very best men around. -- Nindy and Steve Pike.

Hackman Family, 

My name is Shari Sauer, I worked with Michael at UIF and am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. Michael was an incredible person to work with. Not only was he a brilliant man always suggesting innovative new ways of doing things, but he was incredibly empathetic, kind, quick to listen, and all-around a genuine person. His work ethic and compassion for people left a mark on me. 

I am so very sorry that you have to mourn the tragic loss of such a wonderful person. I am praying for you and will fondly remember the legacy Michael left. 

Sorrowfully, 
Shari

Charlene,

You and Michael always were cheerful when you came to The Putaway.  Bryan and I were the beneficiaries of two pleasant customers.

John, my husband, also knew Michael from playing paddle with him at Picket Post.  His legacy is strong and filled with his light for others.  As you now walk in this new path, words of condolences are devoid of meaning.  May you always feel his guidance and have the beauty of your children and grandson to comfort you.

Tragedy begs for a reason.  We have no answers but to continue on the journey you both created.

God bless you.  Prayers for all.

Marita

My deepest sympathy to your family on this tragic loss. 
I hired and worked with Michael at BBBSA.
It was a real pleasure working with him.
I continued to follow his career and know how very proud you were of his work and the many people whose lives he touched.
RIP Mike. Gone too soon. 
Our thoughts are with you in this difficult time.

Charlene and family,
My deepest condolences.  Michael always made me smile and was just pleasurable to be around.  I’m just one of his many tennis buds that will remember and miss him every time we step on a court. 
A terrible, tragic loss of a great guy.
My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Sincerely,  
Steve

We were shocked and saddened to hear the news. I was fortunate to know Michael through him coming to my business for haircuts. He was a loyal client for 9 years. All of us enjoyed him visiting as he will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. 

With my deepest sympathy.  I am shocked and saddened with this tragedy. I had the pleasure of meeting and playing with Mike at various soccer games throughout the last few years.  He was always a gentleman!  He will be missed by all of us. You all are in my thoughts are prayers!

To Charlene and  family,

Our sincerest condolences for your loss.  My wife Anne said that Michael was the only person she had ever met who had such a positive spin on life. He was a joy to be around and was truly admired by everyone he came into contact with.  He will be forever missed . May God hold him in the palm of His hand . We will keep you all in our prayers.

Love and prayers,

The Kinsellas

Charlene ... I’m in shock and deeply saddened by this tragic passing of Michael. My heart is with you, the kids and your grandson. As you already know, Michael was a good man.  He also understood the value of friendship. I feel blessed to have had him as one of mine.  I’m so sorry Charlene. My prayers will be with you all. 

Teresa
Scottsdale, Az

I remember meeting  & working with Michael during my time as Director of the College Access Center of Delaware County (CACDC).

We instituted a lot of his work with the under served students in the City of Chester & others throughout the County who wanted to know more about how to pursue college or their chosen careers including the military.  A large number of our students used UIF's college prep &  career online modules to prepare for future success.

Michael also joined my Chester College Prep Roundtable &  each month brought loads of great information to our group of post secondary and career practitioners that aided us in our mission to serve the citizens of Chester City & the County.

Later, I would connect him to other community based support organizations like Chester's Community That Cares (CTC) & the Philadelphia College Prep Roundtable (PCPR).  I knew he would instantly enjoy the partnership opportunities, friendships, & love he would get from being a part of the PCPR family.

When meeting attendance would sometimes be challenged by our daily, weekly, and sometimes monthly commitments, Michael could always be counted on to somehow show up ready to talk, share ideas, as well as his services and resources.

Even though the CACDC would be closed, Michael remained committed to serving residents through his work at the Chester Education Foundation (CEF).  And when I was later recruited as part of a transition team to help lead Cheyney University's resurgence, Michael was one of the first people to offer support and his organization's services.

This is very sad day for our region as we have lost a wonderful man that really cared for the community. Michael's spirit, commitment, and living example is something that I hope many of us remember because it's a testament to how collaborations and partnerships can and must cross across all types of seeming barriers to enrich the lives of others.

Thank You For Your Service To Others Brother Michael.....

Charlene, Chelsea and Sean,

Words cannot heal the tragedy and loss you are all experiencing. Mike and I became good friends through our work together at the Chester County Dept. Of Community Development.  He was a good man, great advocate for those less fortunate, and I know because we spoke always about our families, a phenomenal husband and Dad.  He loved you all so very, very much!

He will live in you forever!

My condolences and prayers for healing. I am so sorry!

Charlene, Chelsea and Sean,
There are no words that can fully express our sadness and grief.  Mike was an amazing man, father, friend and neighbor who was full of life and compassion for others. You are all in our thoughts and prayers and wishing you peace in your hearts over time.
With Peace and Love,
Mike, Maureen, Max and Hannah 

OBITUARY

Michael Robert Hackman

June 16, 1956 – July 18, 2020

Alleva Funeral Home, Inc.

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Updates

Services