Michael Waka, Jr., 78, of Ebensburg, formerly of Colver, passed away on March 10, 2026, at his home. He was born April 28, 1947, in Colver, the son of the late Michael and Ethel (Stanton) Waka, Sr.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, William “Bill” and Agnes Wyland, and his nephew, Joseph Lloyd.

Mike is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Joce Marie (Wyland) Waka; his sister, Polly Ann (Vernon) Lloyd; and his brothers-in-law: Terry (Leeann) Wyland, Kenneth (Mary Jane) Wyland, Sr., Frank (Marian) Wyland, and Brian (Lori) Wyland.  He is also survived by his nephews: Christopher Lloyd; Lee William (Abbie) Wyland; AJ Wyland; Kenneth (Kelley) Wyland, Jr.; and Brad (Liz) Wyland; and his nieces: Susan Lloyd; Marci (Zach) Evans; Jill (Josh) Cicero; Michelle (Ian) Head; Katie (Philip) Lynch; and Amy (Matt) Berger.

Mike graduated from Drake College of Florida, where he earned a degree in Accounting and Business Administration. Following graduation, he worked for three years with the Northern Cambria Catholic School District and later spent four years with L. Robert Kimball & Associates.

The majority of Mike’s career was in the television industry. He was one of the original six employees who helped establish WWCP/WATM television operations in Johnstown, where he served as Business Manager and Human Resources Director from 1986 through 1996. He later served in the same capacity at WETM in Elmira, New York, and at WTAJ-TV in Altoona from 1998 through 2008. Mike concluded his professional career as Business Manager and Human Resources Director for the Blair County Convention Center, serving from 2008 until his retirement in 2013.

Mike was an avid bowler and served as president of the Johnstown Metro Bowling Association. He also held numerous league offices while bowling in Ebensburg. A devoted sports fan, Mike was a diehard supporter of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pittsburgh Penguins and also enjoyed following Penn State and Pitt football and basketball.

While working for L. Robert Kimball & Associates, Mike served as treasurer of Highland Federal Credit Union. He also served as an Executive Advisor for the High School Junior Achievement Program sponsored by the Pennsylvania Mines Corporation.

Mike enjoyed traveling and cruising with his wife and spending time at their timeshare resort in Orlando, Florida.  Special thanks to the Hospice team, Peggy, Jen and Carly.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Mike's memory may be made to the Holy Name Church or to the charity of your choice.

He was a member of Holy Name Roman Catholic Church in Ebensburg, where friends may gather in the church narthex on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m., celebrated by Rev. Fr. Brian Warchola. Entombment will follow at Holy Name Mausoleum.  Arrangements are in the care of Askew-Houser Funeral Homes, Inc., Ebensburg.  Condolences to the family may be left at www.askew-houser.com.