Michael Charles Toschak

With heavy hearts and profound love, we celebrate the life of Michael Charles Toschak, who departed this world on May 3, 2026, at the age of 76, after a courageous battle with throat cancer. Born on May 19, 1949, in Cicero, Illinois, Michael was the cherished son of the late Mike and Henrietta Toschak. He was a devoted brother to Robert Toschak and a beloved partner and dear friend to Delores Peters, whose unwavering care and love meant the world to him.

Michael’s life was a symphony of dedication, passion, and service. He grew up in Illinois, later moving to California, where he graduated from Irvington High School in Fremont in 1968. His thirst for knowledge led him to Ohlone College, Cal State Hayward, and San Jose State, where he honed his love for music and education. Michael proudly served in the US Navy starting in 1971.

A man of many talents, Michael’s career was as varied as it was impressive. He began as a caddie at the Riverside Country Club in Illinois where he learned to banter with the best and see what people needed before they knew it themselves. At Roos Atkins Department Store where he worked after moving to California; he developed an impeccable sense of style that would serve him throughout his life. His true passion, however, was music. He taught at Allegro Music, Moreau High School, and with the Fremont Education Foundation, nurturing the love of music in countless students. Michael was the proud owner of Michael’s Piano in Niles, California, and the Stay Tuned Piano Company, sharing his expertise and love for music and instruments with the community. He was also an integral part of the American Legion Post 105 in Redwood City, California, serving in various roles and conducting Veteran’s Day ceremonies.

Michael’s musical legacy extended to the CHOPs Big Band where he played the bari sax and the Newark Symphonic Band where he played bass clarinet. He played in the Ohlone Wind Orchestra where he played alto and tenor sax and clarinet. He also performed with the Ohlone Musical Pit Orchestra where he played clarinets and saxophones. As Choir Director at St. Joseph’s Church and Mission San Jose, he shared the joy of music with his congregation. His commitment to music education shone brightly as he led the Boy Scout Band at Veterans Hall in Niles one of six in the nation and he co-founded and co-conducted the US Navy Sea Cadet Band of the West, the only one in the United States, infusing his military service with his musical talents.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Michael was a man of diverse interests. A passionate music lover, he was also a talented cook, hosting a short-lived comedic cooking show. He was an avid stamp collector and gardener, nurturing orchids and fruit trees with the same care he showed to the people around him. His appreciation for fine whiskeys and beers was matched only by his skill as a master mixologist.

Michael was a man of infectious positivity, humor and unwavering loyalty, always speaking kindly of others and maintaining a zest for life. He was a reliable friend, a truthteller with integrity, and a private soul who cherished the company of his dear friends Ken Crowell, Belinda Eugster, Sandra Moore, Carilyn Hepler, and many others.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held on June 7, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Spin A Yarn, located at 54915 Warm Springs Blvd, Fremont, CA 94539. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Newark Symphonic Winds Memorial Fund in Michael’s honor.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the VA hospital of Palo Alto, especially the home-based primary care team, and the staff at Banner University Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, for their dedicated care. Special thanks also to Delores Peters for her extraordinary love and support throughout Michael’s final years.

Michael Toschak will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched. His music, kindness, and spirit will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.