Obituary of Michael Joseph Haase, Sr.

Michael Joseph Haase, Sr. passed away in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, on May 9, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. He was 67. Mike spent most of his life between Pennsylvania and Florida — making friends wherever he went. He had a way of filling a room, not because he was loud (though sometimes he was), but because he was unmistakably himself. He was funny, stubborn, and unapologetically honest. He called things like he saw them and lived life on his own terms — with unfiltered honesty, humor, and a whole lot of heart. And yes, unfiltered cigarettes too. He found joy in the little things: a long ride, a well-worn Harley-Davidson shirt, the sound of an old song on the radio, fixing old cars and motorcycles. Some of the best memories with him weren’t about grand gestures — they were about long afternoons spent walking around junkyards, swapping stories, and picking a song on one of his many beloved string instruments. Whether it was a guitar, a banjo, or a mandolin, he’d listen close and play along by ear. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Joseph Haase, Jr.; his parents, Ted Haase and Doris Brown Haase; his brothers, Rev. Rick Haase and Merle Haase; and his niece, Angela Haase. He is survived by his daughters: Melissa, Mindy, and Kelly; his grandchildren Paige, Dylan, Ginny, David, Caity, Emily, Eddie, and Oscar; and great-grandchildren; his brothers Ted, Ken, and John; sisters Joyce and Lori; and a wide extended family. Also surviving him are countless friends, his ex-wife Cathy — and quite a few ex-girlfriends — because Mike believed in love, sometimes more than once at a time. He wasn’t always easy, but he was always himself. His presence filled a room, and his absence will be just as loud. We will miss him in the strangest moments — the smell of motor oil, a song on the radio, a joke only he would’ve laughed at. At Mike’s request there will be no public visitation or service.  Arrangements in care of Kenneth A. Stuart Funeral Home, New Florence. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the funeral home to help with final expenses.  In honor of Mike, put on some old rock and roll, scratch a dog behind the ears, and light one up if that’s your thing — he wouldn’t have judged you either way.