Jun 2, 2013

Self-employed homebuilder

Michael “Mike” Dire, 82, of Washington, passed away Saturday, June 1, 2013, surrounded by his five loving daughters.

He was born November 22, 1930, in Hickory, a son of the late Angelo and Angela Berlingeri Dire.

Mr. Dire lived most of his life in Hickory and Washington and graduated with Hickory High School, Class of 1948.

He served with the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War and had been a self-employed homebuilder, mason and bricklayer. Dire Drive in Hickory, the street he built, was named for him.

Mr. Dire was a former member of Hickory Lions Club, American Legion Post 639 of Claysville and Canonsburg Senior Citizens, where he enjoyed dartball and Wii bowling. He enjoyed spending time with his family, playing cards, going to the casino, working with his hands and his morning coffee.

Surviving are five daughters, Patricia Kraus of Canonsburg, Linda Dire (Tim) Miller of Canonsburg, Jerri Dire (Chester Osiecki) of Canonsburg, Tracy (David) Hapchuk of Washington and Angel (John) Dire-Nunamaker of Lawrence; four grandchildren, Diane Fehl, Ryan (Megan) Ludwin, Nicholas Dire and Christopher Hapchuk; two great-grandchildren, Kendall and Tyler Ludwin; four sisters, Erma Baroni of Bridgeville, Josephine Lugalia of Hickory and Mary Warrick and Joann Ross, both of Washington; and several nieces and nephews.

Deceased are two brothers, Albert and Louis Dire; a sister, Edith Vernon; and his former wife, Elma Jarman.

Friends are welcome from 3 to 8 p.m. Tuesday in Salandra Funeral Service Inc., Joseph P. Salandra, owner/supervisor, 304 West Pike Street, Canonsburg, 724-745-8120, where services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, June 5, with Pastor George Garancosky Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in Forest Lawn Gardens, McMurray, with full military rites accorded by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 191 and American Legion Post 902 honor guard. To view or extend condolences, please visit www.salandrafunerals.com.