Joseph Michalko (Chief of Police, Ret.)

Joseph Michalko, age 86, passed away Saturday, March 1, 2025 at home. Joe was born December 16, 1938 in Elmira the last surviving child of Wasyl and Anna (Busten) Michalko. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers John, Walter, Nicholas, William (Babe), Louis and Stephen; sister Eileen Milford; sisters-in-law Helen (John), Vera (Walter), MaryAnn (William), Mary Helen (Louis), Stella (Nicholas), Barbara Reinhart and Ann Johnson. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Alyce, who was not only his devoted wife, but also his best friend and lifelong companion. He is also survived by sister-in-law Beverly Michalko and brother-in-law Joseph Wickham along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. Joe graduated from Elmira Free Academy in 1956 and served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1956 to 1958. He joined the Elmira Police Department in April 1961, was promoted through the ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, Deputy Police Chief, and was appointed Chief of Police in August 1988. He served in that capacity until his retirement in May 1996, after 35 years of service. While serving with the police department, Joe attended evening and summer sessions at Elmira College and received his Bachelor of Science Degree in 1974. Joe also graduated from the FBI National Academy for Police Chiefs in Quantico, VA in 1972. At the time of his death he was a life member of the NYS Association of Chiefs of Police. After retiring Joe became a member of the Downtown Health Club where he enjoyed spending a couple hours each day. It was Joe's request that there be no calling hours. A private service will be held. Family and friends are invited to attend his graveside service, with military honors, on Friday, March 7th at 12 noon in St. Peter & Paul's Cemetery (please use the Mount Zoar St. entrance). In lieu of flowers, those wishing may remember Joe through donations to the Downtown Health Club, 147 W. Gray St., Elmira, NY 14901