Michael Walter Surowiec's Obituary
Michael Walter Surowiec (“Mike”) passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on May 30, 2026, just days before his 84th birthday.
Born on June 6, 1942, in Millville, New Jersey, Mike was the son of Michael Albert Surowiec and Helen Surowiec (nee Bazan).
Mike grew up on a chicken egg farm, the child of Polish immigrants. He graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Vineland, New Jersey, Class of 1960, and went on to earn his undergraduate degree in engineering from Villanova University in 1965. He later received his MBA in 1984 from Johns Hopkins University. He spent his entire professional career with Environmental Elements Corporation, where he worked as an engineer and project manager on major projects around the world. His work took him to England, Norway, China and many other places. He truly loved traveling, experiencing other cultures, and meeting new friends wherever he went.
For the past 21 years, Mike made his home in Lewes, Delaware, with his beloved wife, Joan Kinkead. Together they shared a love of the beach and the life they built near the water.
Mike was a man of strong opinions, sharp wit, and unmistakable character. He could be grumpy at times, but beneath it all he had a heart of gold and loved his family fiercely. He embraced life fully and passionately, whether he was out on the open water fishing, tending his garden, traveling, or cooking for the people he loved. He especially treasured taking his children and grandchildren fishing, and he took great pride in preparing Thanksgiving dinner for the whole family. He loved cooking with ingredients from his own garden and sharing those meals and moments with others.
Mike is survived by his loving wife, Joan Kinkead; his sister, Agnes Love; his son, Christopher Surowiec, and daughter-in-law, Stacie Surowiec; his stepdaughter, Ellen Turi, and son-in-law, Joseph Turi; his stepson, Michael Scotch; his cherished grandchildren, Nathan Surowiec, Jacob Surowiec, Valentina Turi, and Juliana Turi.
Mike will be remembered for his devotion to his work and his family, his humor, his adventurous spirit, and his insistence on living life to the fullest. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00AM on Monday, June 15, 2026, at Irish Eyes Pub and Restaurant, 213 Anglers Road, Lewes, DE 19958. A visitation will begin at 10:00AM prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Mike’s memory to a charity of your choice.
Please sign the tribute wall at this site.
FLORIST NOTE - DELIVER ANY ARRANGEMENTS TO OUR LEWES LOCATION, ON SATURDAY, JUNE 13, BY 3 PM.
What’s your fondest memory of Michael?
What’s a lesson you learned from Michael?
Share a story where Michael's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michael you’ll never forget.
How did Michael make you smile?