Michael Pogwizd, 58, a 30-year resident of Justice who owned and ran Chicago-based Michael’s Cooperage, died of a heart attack Saturday as he was returning from his company’s plant in Dos Palos, Calif. “He used to get up at 3 o’clock in the morning and go to work,” said Mr. Pogwizd’s father-in-law, Stanley Staron. “He had to run the company, so he’s a workaholic.” He also said Mr. Pogwizd enjoyed working alongside his son, Michael Jr., who is vice president of the small, family-owned business, 363 W. Pershing Rd., which produces fiber and paper drums used for packing and storing chemicals. Mr. Pogwizd also golfed as often as three times a week if weather allowed it. In addition to his son and father-in-law, Mr. Pogwizd is survived by his wife, Sharon; two daughters, Deborah and Melissa; a granddaughter; a grandson; and many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be from 2 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at Lack & Sons Funeral Home, 9236 S. Roberts Rd., Hickory Hills. Mass will be said at 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Joseph Church, 7240 W. 57th St., Summit.
