Michael J. Jackino

Michael J. Jackino, known affectionately as Mike—and most proudly as

“Papa”—passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025, at age 69, surrounded by loved

ones after a long and courageous battle with brain cancer.

Born on October 24, 1955, in Dunkirk, NY, Mike was the son of Michael P. Jackino and

Sarah J. Jackino (née Carmello). He was raised in a close, loving family with sisters

Jacqueline and Roseann.

Mike graduated from Dunkirk High School in 1973 and earned his degree from SUNY

College of Technology at Alfred Wellsville in 1975, where he formed lifelong bonds with

“The Alfred Boys.”

He spent 14 years working at Dunkirk Ice Cream before serving for 26 years at SUNY

Fredonia, where he became Assistant Director of Facilities Services. He was honored

with the President’s and Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence in Professional Service.

Mike was respected for his integrity, dedication, and humility.

Mike’s passions were many. He was a longtime participant in local softball, bowling, and

adult recreation leagues, and a charter member of the Dunkirk Cleveland Browns

Backers. He loved his annual trips to Vegas and was a proud food connoisseur. But

most of all, Mike was a lifelong lover of music. As a DJ with his business “Music Mania,”

he filled his life and others’ with melody—naming his son after Paul McCartney.

He began every day making coffee for his beloved wife, Amy—a simple ritual of deep

love.

Mike is survived by his wife, Amy (Harkness); daughter Melissa J. Jackino; son Paul M.

Jackino; grandsons Michael and Charles Sutherland; sister Roseann (Robert Lawton);

and many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and

his sister Jacqueline.

He lived by the words: “Count your blessings,” “Be happy,” and “Enjoy your life.” He will

be dearly missed.