Michael J. Gdula

GDULA - Michael Jerome "Moose," 80, St. Michael, died August 28, 2026. Born August 6, 1946, in Windber, son of Michael J. and Katherine M. "Kay" (Markovich) Gdula. Preceded in death by parents, sister, Kathleen; brother, David; and nephew, Chad.

Survived by loving wife of 58 years, Patrica "Patty" (Smiach) Gdula; son, Michael, married to Sandra (Wess); grandchildren, Jude, Aaron, and Drew; sister Nancy, widow of Rich Kenda: and in-laws, Robert "Muzz" Blanchetti, married to Regina (Ratchford); Peggy (Blanchetti), wife of Harry Carpenter; and Mike Smiach, widower of Linda (Beatty).

Moose grew up in Dunlo and lived in St. Michael. He was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church and graduated from Adams-Summerhill High School in 1964. Over the years, he worked at Bethlehem Steel and later at the Windber Country Club. Serving others was simply part of who Mike was. He spent 54 years with the Adams Township Volunteer Fire Co. #2, holding many positions including fire chief. He was a member of Cambria County Regional Firefighters Association; Sons of The American Legion, Squadron 551, St. Michael; and lifetime member of the Dunlo Rod & Gun Club.

Moose cherished the time he spent with his family. He especially loved watching his grandsons play sports and took great pride in their accomplishments. He made it a point to be there for their school events and sporting events, always showing up to cheer them on and support them. He also treasured the time spent fishing and hunting with his son, grandsons, and others.

Those outings gave him the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while making memories with the people he loved most.

He was also a big part of family gatherings, especially the family pig roasts, where he proudly took on the role of head cook. Those gatherings were about more than just good food they were about bringing everyone together, making memories, sharing laughs, and enjoying time with the people he loved.

Moose was always ready to help, especially when his son was building his house, or helping Rich with a building project, you could always count on him to be there.

Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home, Inc., South Fork; where a firefighter's service will be held at 7 p.m. followed by the Son's of the American Legion.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. Michael Catholic Church, Father Brian Warchola, celebrant. 

Committal, St. Michael Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to Adams Township Volunteer Fire Co. #2, 849 Locust St., PO Box 368, St. Michael, PA 15951.