Lt. Col. Michael Brywka, Jr.

Lieutenant Colonel Michael Brywka Jr., age 75, of Wilmington, Delaware, passed away suddenly on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

Michael was born in Philadelphia, PA., son of the late Michael Brywka, Sr. and Florence Malinowski Brywka. He graduated from Thomas Edison High School, in Philadelphia, PA in 1966. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Penn State University in 1970 and his master’s degree from Boston University in 1980.

He enrolled in the ROTC, with a 2 year commitment which ended with a 26 year career with the United States Army as a Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army. Michael was a consultant for the US Department of Defense for 19 years, retiring in 2016 and was currently a part-time consultant in pharmaceuticals.

Michael was a member of the Delaware Veterans Post #1, the President of the Wexford Civic Association over 30 years, a Life-Long Learner at University of Delaware’s OLLI Program, a member of AUSA-Association of the United States Army (AUSA) and Silver Caddeus Association, as well as an usher at the Church of the Holy Child.

Michael had a passion for traveling the world with his beloved wife, Marie. Together, they shared many unforgettable journeys, particularly their cherished Viking Cruises. Whether exploring the Rhine River of Germany or experiencing the ancient wonders of the Mediterranean, Michael and Marie reveled in the beauty of new places and the joy of each other’s company.

Throughout his life, Michael had a passion for discovering different cultures, landscapes, and experiences. His adventurous spirit, warm heart, and keen sense of humor touched everyone he met. He lived with a sense of wonder and a desire to make the most of every moment.

Michael’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and a deep appreciation for his family. He will be greatly missed by his wife, Marie, his children, grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Michael is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marie Laura Brywka, his son and daughter-in-law, Michael Brywka, III and Aimee Brywka, of Landenberg, PA, his son and daughter-in-law, David Brywka and Jodi Brywka, of Newtown, PA, his brother, Ronald Brywka, of Philadelphia, PA, his grandchildren; Rachel, Kyle, Lily and Abigail Brywka and his great-granddaughter, Elianna Brywka.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, January 13, 2025 at 11:30 am at Church of the Holy Child, 2500 Naaman’s Rd., Wilm, DE 19810. A Viewing will be held prior to mass from 10:30 to 11:30 am at the church. Entombment will follow the mass at All Saints Cemetery, Wilmington, DE.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project, woundedwarriorproject.org.

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Julia Woerner lit a candle and writes,

I have grown up with Rachel, one of his grandkids, for 10 years. During the times I met him, he was an amazing person. I know he loved his family. May he rest in peace❤️

01/06/2025 02:56 pm

Rosemarie/Diane Iorillo writes,

Our deepest sympathy for my cousin Jodi and her husband Dave. Our hearts are with Lily, Abby and the Brywka families. Love Aunt Rose and Diane

01/06/2025 03:13 pm

Jackie Basquill writes,

My deepest heartfelt sympathy to Marie and her family. Mike was an amazing man and what a remarkable family, career & life he had. I have so many fond memories of the time we shared at DLA. Marie, may your family and friends comfort you, faith uphold you and the loving memories of Mike help to heal your heart.

01/06/2025 04:03 pm

Kerry Collias lit a candle and writes,

I had the pleasure of working with Mike for over 20 years through his work at the DLA. He was passionate about his job and taking care of the warfighter, and I learned immeasurable from him during this time. My colleagues and I lived vicariously through Mike as he told of his many travels - we said we wanted to be him when we grew up! My condolences to the family - he was a great man and will be missed.

01/06/2025 04:08 pm

William F McLaughlin lit a candle and writes,

We are so saddened at the sudden loss of this good man, our friend through church and choir. Prayers go out to Marie as she navigates this sudden grief. Mary Ann and Bill McLaughlin

01/06/2025 04:54 pm

William (Terry) Clayton writes,

I am shocked and sadden by Mikes untimely passing. Our paths crossed many times during our active duty careers as medical logistics officers. We had not been in touch for many years until just a couple of weeks ago on December 26, when we happened to connect on Linked In. We messaged back and forth a couple of times catching up. My deepest condolences to Marie and family and I will keep them in my prayers during this difficult time. Terry Clayton

01/06/2025 07:32 pm

Lois Jones writes,

We are friends of Dave and Jodi. We know how special PopPop was to them. How much they loved and valued their time spent together as a family. Our thoughts are of you, Our hearts are with you and our prayers are for you. With sincere condolences, Lois and Biff Jones and Lorraine Inzetta.

01/06/2025 08:32 pm

Sally ascolillo writes,

Marie, my sincere condolences. He was one in a million and a true gentleman. Prayers to yo and your family.

01/06/2025 09:09 pm

Joan miller writes,

Marie, I was deeply saddened to read about Mike’s sudden death. My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I am so sad for you. Joan

01/07/2025 08:01 am

Cinda Crane writes,

Dear Marie and family, I am so sorry for your loss. With deepest sympathy, Cinda.

01/07/2025 10:51 am

Cecilia Carroll lit a candle and writes,

My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. What a treasure and wonderful man. Love, Che-Che

01/07/2025 02:21 pm

Arlene B Skotnicki lit a candle and writes,

We have missed you and Mike at the water aerobic classes at the Y and the wonderful times we had there. So glad you had such wonderful experiences together throughout life's journey. Think of all the good and hold onto the memories for a lifetime. Prayerfully, Arlene Skotnicki

01/07/2025 03:57 pm

Sandy & Bob Beckert lit a candle and writes,

So sorry to hear. Our deepest sympathy to Marie and all family and friends. May he rest in peace.

01/07/2025 05:42 pm

Sam Minutola writes,

Sorry for your loss Mike was great Veteran & great family man I always enjoyed his company up at Del Vets Post No. 1 Sam Minutola Past Commander Semper Fi

01/07/2025 08:24 pm

John McAndrews writes,

My deepest condolences to Marie and the Brywka family at this most difficult time.

01/07/2025 08:41 pm

Susan Caso-Bolnick lit a candle and writes,

I'm so very sorry for your loss, Marie. With gratitude for his service, sending heartfelt sympathy to you, family and friends during this sad time. May you find some comfort in knowing you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

01/07/2025 09:47 pm

Lois Dyduck lit a candle and writes,

Marie, my deepest sympathies to you and your family. I often think of you guys and our “trailblazing” WELP days. 🙏🙏

01/07/2025 10:51 pm

Robert L. Meszaros lit a candle and writes,

Marie, I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved Michael. My condolences to you and your family at these trying times. May he rest in peace.

01/08/2025 11:59 am

Bill Parsons and Cleo writes,

MARIE, when DAVE called, we were away on vacation in the Bahamas. The news was devastating… We have since talked and we want to express our deepest sympathy to you and your family… I considered MIKE my best friend… I am at an extreme loss and emotional distress… CLEO is having the same feelings… We loved you guys… We shared so much with you over the years… Our dinners, our get-togethers, our traveling and vacations together… We will be we with you Monday… We do share your loss…

01/08/2025 01:23 pm

Mr Mrs Michael Mathis lit a candle and writes,

So sorry for your loss, sending our deepest condolences to the family.🙏🏾🙏🏾

01/08/2025 08:23 pm

ANITA L. STERLING writes,

I am so sorry to learn of Michael's passing. I have seen him often at OLLI this past semester and remember seeing Michael and Marie at the Bellevue Park summer concerts. Please accept my condolences.

01/09/2025 07:04 am

Linda Barnett writes,

What a beautiful obituary for a warm and wonderful person. Please accept my deepest condolences, Marie, at the loss of your partner, your friend, and your dearly loved husband. ~~Linda

01/09/2025 08:24 am

Rashawn Lewis lit a candle and writes,

Marie, Mike, David and the Brywka family, please accept my sincere condolences and prayers as I still can't/don't want to believe this. Mike was not only my DoD/DLA colleague for over 20yrs, but he was my mentor, friend, advisor, and father like figure. I owe everything to this man and to hear this news saddens me. Supporting the men and women Warfighters was his mission even after hanging up his Army uniform. Our close working relationship involved discussions about our family's, kids, vacations, tdy trips, and the next hot issue within Medical Readiness, deployments, and natural disasters. Mike will be sorely missed but know that his impact on life, friends, and all that met him will carry on. Save a Martini for me Brywka Man! Sincerely the Lewis Family.

01/09/2025 03:03 pm

Roberta Yarker Smith writes,

I send my deepest sympathy to Marie and her family. I have written but that may take some time. Roberta

01/09/2025 05:07 pm

Evie Ladzinski lit a candle and writes,

My sincere sympathy to Dave, Jodi and Marie for the loss of their beloved dad and husband., You arek all in my heart and prayers.

01/09/2025 06:25 pm

William Gu lit a candle and writes,

To Brywka family, Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. I had worked with Mike, Wendell, Rashawn and Rick since I joined DLA in 2007. I remember Mike had a picture of a swimming pool with his grandchildren in his time sharing place in Bermuda hanging on top of his desk and he joked with me if I’m interested buying it from him, and I said I would like to but can’t afford the travel expenses, Mike will be missed. Sincerely, Bill Gu

01/10/2025 11:21 am

COL (Ret) Jon and Kathi Kissane writes,

Our deepest sympathies to Mike’s family. Mike and Marie sponsored us at Ft. Detrick when we returned from our first tour in Germany. Our paths crossed occasionally as we journeyed through our Army and ‘second career’ experiences. Mike was always helpful, pragmatic, and cheerful, and it was clear how he treasured his family and friends.

01/10/2025 12:49 pm

Kenneth Deak writes,

Dave, Sorry for your loss, and my condolences go out to you, your mom and the entire Brywka family. Ken Deak

01/10/2025 01:44 pm

Eugene Rudder writes,

Like Mike, I too am a Church of the Holy Child parishioner. Every Sunday, Mike would loyally assist in the collection, and he always shared a smile with each person who placed their envelope in his basket. I never really had the opportunity to get to know him but whenever we passed each other, he always had such a pleasant demeanor, displaying the kind of man he was and the man I wished to be. Several weeks prior to his untimely passing, my wife and I had the pleasure and honor of sharing a meal with him and his wife at the annual choir Christmas gathering. This year it was held in the Church Dining Room and as we ate, we shared out communal service, which appropriately began at around the same time--although he was beginning his long military career as a second lieutenant, and I was a lowly sergeant serving in Vietnam. As it turns out, Mike was just as pleasant and charming that afternoon as he always was. I will miss his kindness, his vibrant Christian attitude, but most of all, I will miss seeing him taking up collection as he always did. Heaven has a new and wonderful resident. It will be wonderful to see him again.

01/10/2025 03:43 pm

Stuart Mervis writes,

Mike and I were friends, Army guys, and work colleagues for 50 years. He was and will always be remembered as a wonderful person. God Bless him and his family. Stu Mervis

01/11/2025 10:57 am

Barbara McAnulla & Robert Riggio writes,

We enjoyed having a nice long conversation with Michael at the Delaware Vets Post the night before he died. We shared good memories of having worked and retired from the Defense Personnel Support Center, Phila., PA. His prime concern that night was for the recuperation of his wife following her and surgery. He was a good man in a world where we need more of them!

01/11/2025 03:04 pm

Sherrill King writes,

Marie, Michael III, David and the entire Brywka family I extend my heartfelt condolences. I worked with Mike during my time at DLA in Philly. His dedication to the men and women in uniform never ceased to amaze me. As we traveled to various Pharmaceuticals companies, I was able to witness Mike’s passion and commitment to our mission. If our audience was not sold on the product/program before we arrived, they definitely were by the time we walked out the door. My most memorable trip was to Japan. Neither of us could speak the language but Mike didn’t let that stop him from enjoying the food, “sockeye” and culture. During one of the many feast, the host noticed that Mike was enjoying all the raw food they provided and they kept refilling his glass with “sockeye “, but I was not eating anything and drinking only water. In their best broken English, the host wanted to know why I wasn’t eaten. Mike wiped his mouth and said she likes cooked food and she doesn’t drink but I’m good and raised his empty glass; which they quickly refilled. Within 10 minutes the host brought out the same feast but this time everything was fried just for me alone with my choice of soft drinks. Mike looked at be, smiled and said all you had to do is ask. During our travels, I got to see the depth of the love he had for his family; especially the love of his life, Marie. When he talked about his boys, their wives and his grandchildren their was always a sense of pride and joy in his voice. He was always planning or returning from a trip with Marie and the “kids”. Once I moved from the Philadelphia area, I looked forward to receiving Mike’s annual Christmas letter. The letters made me feel like I was still sitting in the cubicle across from him and catching up with a friend. As difficult as it is to believe that Mike will no longer physically be here, I find comfort in knowing that he lived a full life, he loved deeply, he brought joy to many and he touched the lives of all that knew him. I am so thankful and truly blessed that Mike Brywka crossed my path and I was able to call him a friend. Marie, may you and the rest of the family find peace and comfort in the many memories you shared and those memories will sustain you until you meet again.

01/12/2025 09:09 pm

Ethan Quirin lit a candle and writes,

I have only known Michael a few years, but in every call and meeting I left feeling good because of Michael's joy and kindness. He was an incredible person, quick to share his reflections on a situation, doing so without judgment and always with compassion and empathy. His love for his family was evident in each interaction I had with him, as well as his love of adventure and travel. I will miss Michael and I pray for his wife Marie, brother, children and grandchildren, that they may eventually find peace during this difficult time.

01/13/2025 05:48 am

Steve McManus lit a candle and writes,

Marie - This is sad news. Mike was a great person, a brilliant leader, and a pillar in the reinvention of DoD’s medical logistics, especially in re-inventing medical materiel readiness. I’m so sorry to hear of his passing.

01/13/2025 10:37 am

Claudie M. Shelton, Jr. lit a candle and writes,

Marie and Family, Our deepest condolences in the passing of Michael. I have fun memories of our time in Frankfurt. Be at Peace. Claudie Shelton, MAJ USA (Ret)

01/13/2025 10:45 am

Mark Kaminer writes,

Marie, My deepest condolences for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your wonderful family during this difficult time.

01/13/2025 04:32 pm

Victor Luna lit a candle and writes,

I'm so very sorry for your loss. Sending Our deepest condolences to Mary and Family, I just talked to him few weeks back .May he rest in peace 🙏. Victor and Family.

01/13/2025 11:06 pm

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