In loving memory of Michael F. Paniczko III, 61 of Melbourne, Florida. Mikey passed away peacefully on April, 8th 2026, at Vitas Hospice Center after battling cancer for the past five years. His strength, humor and resilience remained with him until the very end. Mike was born in Northampton, Massachusetts, to his late parents, Elaine (Murray) and Michael F. Paniczko Jr.

He grew up in Hatfield, MA in a close-knit family alongside his older siblings: Lynda Motyka (Johnny), Peter Paniczko (Mimi), MaryJane Lavallee (Joe) and Edward Paniczko (Karen), as well as his deceased brother Raymond Paniczko. He is survived by his son Michael J. Paniczko and his daughter Jenna L. Paniczko, who will carry on his spirit, humor and love. Mike traveled to Massachusetts frequently in the summers to visit his life long friends.

As a kid, Mike was always on the move. He loved sports of every kind, basketball, baseball, soccer, hockey, golf and bowling. If it involved a ball, a stick, a glove, or a scoreboard Mike was in. He graduated from Smith Academy High School and after high school followed his parents to Florida. There he graduated from Broward Community College, earning an Associate of Arts Degree. He went on to build a hardworking and dedicated career in Manufacturing Sales. Mike is now reunited with those he loved and missed deeply, his brother Raymond, his parents and his wife Diane Rager-Paniczko. We take comfort in knowing that they are together again.

As an adult Mike continued his lifelong love of sports by playing softball throughout Florida. He was an avid golfer and accomplished pool player. Mike was a die-hard New England sports fan, the kind who never missed a game and never stopped believing in his teams. He cheered passionately for the Boston Red Sox, celebrating every win and riding out every loss. He loved the grit and intensity of the Boston Bruins and proudly supported the New England Patriots.

Whether it was baseball, hockey, football or golf, Mike watched with the same enthusiasm he had as a kid and he shared that love with everyone around him. Sports weren’t just entertainment for Mike, they were a connection to home, to family and to some of his happiest memories. Above all Mike adored his two children and will be remembered for his kindness, his humor and the way he showed up for the people he loved. He had a big heart, a contagious laugh and a bright outlook on life. His legacy lives on in his children, his family and the countless lives he touched. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the love he gave so freely.