Michael Daniel Cronin

Michael D. Cronin, a cherished soul and embodiment of courage, wisdom, and love, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2024, at the venerable age of 95 in East Orange, NJ. Born on August 4, 1929, in Jersey City, NJ, Michael's journey was marked by dedication to family, country, and community.

Michael's early life in Jersey City set the stage for a lifetime of achievement and service. After earning his bachelor's degree from St. Peter's College, he embarked on a career that would span over four decades, dedicating over 20 years each to Westinghouse and IBM, and later to the Bergen County Prosecutor's Office in the computer division. His work was more than a job; it was a testament to his commitment to progress and innovation. 

Michael's service to his country was nothing short of heroic. As a veteran of both World War II and the Korean War, he demonstrated an unwavering bravery that earned him numerous commendations, including the Bronze Service Star and the honor of being a Double Purple Heart recipient. He was proud to be selected as one of twelve soldiers for a private luncheon with President Truman. His legacy of valor and patriotism remains an inspiration to all who knew him.

Family was the cornerstone of Michael's life. He was the loving husband of the late Mary (Martin) Cronin and a devoted father to Cheryl Palko and her husband Jack, Michael T. Cronin, Cathy DellaValle, and Mark Cronin and his wife Stefania. His role as an adored grandfather to Ryan and his wife Sheila, Matthew and his wife Patricia, Kristen, Anthony, and Thomas DellaValle, and Mariella and Daniella Cronin brought him immense joy. The extension of his legacy through his great-grandchildren, Autumn, Delaney, and Liam Palko, filled his heart with pride. Michael was also a dear brother to Dolores Mack and fondly remembered the late Daniel Cronin.

Outside of his professional accomplishments and family life, Michael was an avid sports enthusiast, loyally supporting the New York Giants and the New York Yankees. His passion for sports was paralleled by the serenity he found at his beach home in Ortley, NJ, where he spent countless hours relaxing and making memories with loved ones.

Michael's life was a testament to his courage, loving nature, and wisdom. He faced life's challenges with resilience and grace, always leading by example and imparting valuable life lessons to those around him. His absence will be profoundly felt by all who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him.

As we bid farewell to Michael D. Cronin, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest, rich with accomplishments and bound by the love of family and country. His memory will continue to guide and inspire us, and his spirit will forever be woven into the fabric of our lives. Michael's journey on earth may have concluded, but his story will be told for generations to come—a story of a life well-lived and a man well-loved.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation at t2t.org.