It is with great sadness that Assistant Chief of Police, Brian Gould announces the sudden death of the Chief of Police Michael J. Sliwinski.
Chief Sliwinski passed away on July 17th, 2021 of an apparent heart attack at the age of 55.
Chief Sliwinski joined the Cheektowaga Police Department in 1991. While working as a Patrolman, Chief Sliwinski served, at various intervals, on all three platoon shifts. In that time period, he was a field training officer, bicycle patrol officer, drug court warrant officer, and school liaison at Cheektowaga Central High School. Chief Sliwinski also served as a Task Force Officer with The Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration. Following his promotion to Sergeant in 2002, Chief Sliwinski supervised the 1st and 3rd platoons.
Awards:
8 Special Unit Citations
7 Letters of Commendation
4 Distinguished Conduct Awards
SWAT Commander
Awards Committee
Within the sphere of all his roles through his career with the Cheektowaga Police Department, Chief Sliwinski was a consummate professional. He exemplified our core values of Honor, Integrity, Discipline, and Respect.
Law enforcement professional, though, does not adequately describe Chief Sliwinski. He was so much more. His quick wit, razor-sharp at all times, was always at the ready when it was time for a laugh. His vast knowledge of television and movie trivia was displayed whenever he thought of a quip to fit the situation, often to the confusion of those in the room with him.
Like all of us, he existed as a person outside of his roles within the Department. He loved his place in Florida and often spoke of plans for retirement there. He would fish all day, maybe bartend for fun; and always have a great dinner. Chief Sliwinski’s foodie tendencies were legend at CPD. His favorite restaurants were well known and he was always willing to share recommendations from his many travels, with those planning a trip. He had a ready list of places for each meal in dozens of cities. He meticulously researched and planned his stops on every trip and was happy to share and reminisce. Directions for those traveling out of town often were given with restaurants or sweet shops as landmarks.
Chief Sliwinski was more than a Chief and more than a leader. He was that rare individual who possessed qualities that appealed to all. He was, simply, a good person whose vocation was to help others. We are so lucky to have had the chance to know him and to call him a friend.
Calling hours:
Tuesday, July 20, 2021, from 3:00pm - 7:00pm
and
Wednesday, July 21, 2021, from 3:00pm - 7:00pm
at
Melvin j. Sliwinski Funeral Home
5090 Transit Rd.
Depew, NY 14043
Funeral:
Thursday, July 22, 2021, at 9:30am
at
St. Louis Roman Catholic Church
35 Edward St.
Buffalo, NY 14202
A short ceremony will take place after the funeral service at St. Stanislaus Cemetery on Pine Ridge Road.
Authority: Brian Gould
Assistant Chief of Police
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