Michael J. Napierala, 61, of Fredonia passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital in Amherst. He was born on March 10, 1964 in Cheektowaga, son of Frederick and Irene (Wroblewski) Napierala.
Raised in West Seneca, Michael graduated from West Seneca West High School in 1982. A three-sport athlete at West Seneca West, he competed in football, basketball and baseball, and was captain of the team in all three sports. While in high school, he met the former Lori Latke, eventually marrying and starting their family. They had been married 42 years at the time of Michael's death.
He retired from the New York State Department of Corrections in 2016 after a prestigious 28-year career. When he took a position at the Lakeview Correctional Facility, Michael and Lori moved to Fredonia, where they raised their family. An outdoorsman at heart, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. Michael had a booming laugh that will be deeply missed.
Michael is survived by his wife, Lori (Latke) Napierala; three children, Michael J. (Jill) Napierala of Westfield, Jeremy J. (Stephanie) Napierala of Buffalo and Michelle L. (Nathan) Burrows of Brocton; four grandchildren, Chloe Napierala, Lilly, Natalie and Theo Burrows; five siblings, David Napierala, Carl Napierala, Elaine Dabney, Cathy Napierala and Dennis Napierala; along with nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Frederick and Irene Napierala.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, March 5 from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Larson-Timko Funeral Home, 20 Central Avenue in Fredonia, where funeral services will be held on Friday, March 6 at 11:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Michael's memory may be made to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements by David J. Dengler. Online condolences may be made at www.larsontimkofuneralhome.com.
