WIRFEL - Michael Carl, 74, of New Germany, passed away on Thursday, January 11, 2024 at UPMC Shadyside Hospital from complications relating to a brain tumor.  Born August 17, 1949 in New Germany, son of the late John and Genevieve (Illig) Wirfel.  Preceded in death by brothers: Cam, Herb, Leo, Joseph, and Don "Duck" Wirfel,  and brother-in-law Clyde Gallardy.  Survived by his wife of over 51 years, Jean (Brown) Wirfel, and their three children:  Lori (Joseph) Jiacinto, Iowa;  Jeffrey (Stephanie) Wirfel, Spring Grove, Pa; and Kristy (Joey) Popma, New Germany,  as well as 12 grandchildren: Joe, Dominic, Lexi, Maria, Xavie, Hailey, Ollie, Cam, Ethan, Annemarie, Julien, and Tricie.  Brother of Ronald (Rose Ann) Wirfel, Dolores (Denny) Bodenschatz, Marjorie Galardy, and Suzette (Joe) Spinner.  Also survived by sisters-in-law:  Patricia Wirfel, Betty Wirfel-McMahon, Joann Wirfel, and Jean Wirfel.  Mike was retired from the Ebensburg Center (State School) with 35 years of service.  A 1967 graduate of Bishop Carroll HS and a 1972 graduate of Penn State University, he was a member of Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church and the G.B.U. (Summerhill Social Club).  Mike enjoyed traveling with his wife, golfing, playing cards, and spending time with his family and friends.  A Gathering of Friends & Family will be held from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday at the Askew-Houser Funeral Homes, Inc., 300 N. Julian Street, Ebensburg.  A Funeral Mass will be held at  11:00 a.m., Thursday, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, New Germany, Rev. Fr. Joseph Nale, celebrant.  Interment at St. Mary's Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Mike's memory may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital (www.stjude.org).  Condolences to the family may be left at www.askew-houser.com