Obituary of Michael Elwood Gralinski

Wilbraham/Palmer - Retired State Trooper Michael E. “Mickey” Gralinski (53rd RTT), 77, passed away in his home with the love of his family surrounding him on March 30, 2024. Born July 17, 1946, in Palmer, Michael was the son of Constantine P. and Juanita J. (Harding) Gralinski. He attended Sts. Peter & Paul Polish school in Three Rivers, Palmer High School, Westfield State College, and American International College. Mike was known throughout his life for his thoughtfulness, generosity, and caring for his family and friends. Mike was a longtime resident of Palmer and Wilbraham and proudly was employed by the Massachusetts State Police for 33 years. At the time that Canine Troopers were reintroduced, Mike was in the first class and was part of the Canine Unit for many years. After his retirement in 2002, Mike enjoyed time in Florida, walks with his dog, Milo, and he continued to be an avid reader of WWII and history books. He also spent the last two years of his life happily in a relationship with his partner Marilyn Snyder. He was a communicant of Divine Mercy Parish along with a member of St. Stan's in Three Rivers. Mike was predeceased by his first wife, Beverly A. (Picard), as well as his second wife, Ruth P. (Guerra) and his brother, Scott Gralinski. His memory will forever remain with his children, Michael P. Gralinski and his wife Julieann of Springfield, Shawn M. Gralinski and his wife Jessica of Martins Ferry, OH, Jared S. Gralinski and his wife Gina of Bastrop, TX and Thomas J. Gralinski of Raleigh, NC. Mike will also be missed by his grandchildren, Victoria, Zachary, Veronica, Juliette, Michael G., Matthew, Erik, Julian, Anna and great-grandchildren, Jocelyn, Jaime, Mia, Rosalia, and Elijah, all of whom he dearly loved. Mickey will not be forgotten by his siblings, Jayne Heede, Helena Jalbert and husband, Roger, Fred Gralinski and wife, Terri and many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held Friday, April 5 from 4-7pm at the Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be Saturday, April 6 at 10 a.m. at Divine Mercy Parish in Three Rivers. Please meet directly at the church. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Baystate Hospice or a hospice of choice.