About Michael

Michael Vincent Lewandowski, age 13, of North Charleston, departed this life at home in the comforting arms of his family on Thursday August 11th 2005 after a courageous 8-year battle with cancer, a battle his love outlasts and his spirit survives.

Born, August 13th, 1991 in Greenville SC to Thomas Lewandowski and Marybeth Gaiani Lewandowski. Michael was always daring and optimistic, sharing his natural gifts in his relationships, in sports, and in school, elevating not only his life, but also that of his family, friends and acquaintances. Michael was a 3rd year Creative Writing student at Rollings Middle School of the Arts where he gained the respect and affections of students, teachers and the community at large for his diligence, kindness, confidence, courage, and humor.

He learned early the value of living life deeply, a value he championed as a prized member of the East Coast Youth Hockey League, Charleston Junior Stingrays, and as a South Carolina Junior Scholar. As a pre-teen, Michael was enthusiastically involved in activities at Camp Happy Days and Special Times where he is remembered as a warrior. Those who knew Michael, even briefly, admired his celestial eyes and generous smile, recognizing them as much more than physical attributes, but as signs of a spirit whose raw materials are love and courage.

Michael is survived by his loving, devoted parents, Thomas and Marybeth Lewandowski of North Charleston; his brother and best friend, Steven Lewandowski, 12; his cherished little sister; Joanmarie Lewandowski, 6; his uncles, Scott Lewandowski of Lewiston, NY, Lewis Gaiani of Tocamo, WA, Commander Anthony Gaiani of Belgium; his aunt Suzanne Reese of Lewiston, NY; his grandparents; Ronald and Harriet Lewandowski of Lewiston, NY and Dr. Eli Gaiani of Palm City, FL; and his step-grandmother; Joyce Gaiani of Palm City, FL. His grandmother, Joan Gaiani, preceded him in death.