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Created in 2013, Skate Guard Blog explores the overlooked, forgotten, and underappreciated corners of figure skating history - from little-known stories to fresh perspectives on famous skaters, eras, and events. There’s always something new to discover, so grab a cup of coffee and glide into the rich, fascinating history of the world’s most beloved winter sport.

Michael Blicharski

 Michael Robert Blicharski

September 14, 1961-November 19, 1995

Left: Mike Blicharski. Right: Maria Lako and Mike Blicharski.

Born in Trenton, Michigan, Mike Blicharski got his start in skating at the Icebox Sports Arena. He 
made his national debut at the 1983 U.S. Championships in Pittsburgh, winning the bronze medal in the junior pairs event with his partner Sue Falzone. He was a four-time competitor in senior pairs at the U.S. Championships with partners Maria Lako and Calla Urbanski, his best finishes being sixth with Calla in both 1987 and 1988. He went on teach aerobics with Vic Tanny International and tour with Walt Disney's World On Ice. He passed away on November 19, 1995 at the age of thirty-four.

Ellicia Shepherd and Mike Blicharski

Mike's obituary from "Skating" magazine: "Former pair competitor Michael R. Blicharski died Nov. 22, 1995, at his home in Trenton, Mich., after a bout with cancer. He was 34 years old. A former pair partner of Calla Urbanski, Blicharski performed in Disney ice shows from 1988-1990, including a stint in a feature role with [Ellicia] Shepherd. He is survived by his parents, Fred and Rita, four brothers, three sisters, and 17 nieces and nephews."

*Source for inclusion: National AIDS Memorial, The Names Project Memorial Quilt

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