Michael F. Roberts 1960-2025

Mike was born in Youngstown on Friday, Nov. 18, 1960, a son of Lawrence and Barbara Mazanski Roberts.

Mike was a 1978 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School and went on to attend college.

He was known for his warmth, generosity and the deep bonds he formed with those around him. Mike cherished his family and friends, and his presence brought laughter, wisdom and comfort to many.

One of Mike’s most cherished contributions to the community was his long-standing tradition of playing Santa Claus during the holiday season. With a twinkle in his eye and a heart full of joy, he brought laughter, excitement and a sense of wonder to countless children and families over the years. His warm presence and infectious spirit made him a beloved figure in the community — a true embodiment of holiday cheer and generosity.

A proud coach for Austintown Youth Baseball, Mike found great joy in mentoring young athletes and sharing his love for the game. An avid Kansas City Chiefs fan, he rarely missed a game, always cheering on his team with unmatched enthusiasm.

One of Mike’s greatest joys was supporting his grandchildren at their sporting events and his pride was boundless. He also enjoyed quiet moments, especially when they included a good cigar and time with family and friends.

Mike’s faith was an important part of his life. He made a Men’s Renewal at St. Christine Church, a meaningful experience that strengthened his spiritual journey and his connection with others.

From a young age, Mike found purpose in service. He was an altar server at St. Stanislaus Church, where he began a lifelong relationship with his faith and community. As he grew older, that spirit of giving only deepened.

Mike became a founding member of the Chuck Housteau Golf Outing, a cherished event that brought people together year after year in the name of fellowship and goodwill.

His true passion, however, was grilling and smoking meats — a tradition passed down from his grandfather. Mike was especially known for his smoked kielbasa, a family favorite that honored generations before him and brought people together around the table, and he enjoyed a good cigar.

He will be remembered for his warmth, humor and the many lives he touched through sports, faith and food. His legacy lives in the hearts of his family, friends and the community he loved.

Throughout his life, Mike wore many hats. He worked as a courier for First Federal Bank and as a service technician for American Business Center. But his greatest pride came from being the owner and operator of Bigs Sports Bar on Mahoning Avenue in Youngstown, a community gathering spot where he shared good food, good company and great stories. Mike retired in 2015, but his presence at Bigs — and in the hearts of its patrons — remained strong.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, the former Marie McAllen, whom he married Aug. 11, 1984; his daughter, Shawna (Mark Stankorb) Roberts of Youngstown; his son, Michael (Rachel) Roberts of Austintown; his brother, Larry (Nancy) Roberts of Poland; and his beloved grandchildren, Mark, Elizabeth, Gracie and Gabrielle Stankorb. He also is survived by numerous friends who became like family.

In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Roberts.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested contributions please be made to the family.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 10 to 11:45 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, at St. Blaise Parish-St. Joseph Church, 4545 New Road, Austintown, OH 44515, followed by A Mass of Christian Burial at noon, celebrated by the Rev. Father Gregory Fedor.

Please send thoughts and condolences to the funeral home website www.mccauleyfuneral.com.

Arrangements by The McCauley Funeral Home privileged to serve the community for over 123 years.

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