Michael J. DeBartolo, Sr., 99 of Hollywood, Florida peacefully entered the home of his Lord on February 15, 2022 under the care of Season’s Hospice Unit at Memorial South Hospital in Hollywood, Florida. He was born to the late Vito and Angelina (Aurichiccio) DeBartolo of Bari, Italy on March 11, 1922 in Norwich, Connecticut.

Michael attended Norwich Free Academy, later enlisting in the U.S. Navy. He was honorably discharged as an Aviation Machinist USN. On June 14, 1947 Michael married Mary C. Pasqualini at St. Patricks Cathedral in Norwich, celebrating 51 years together. Michael and his brothers owned and operated the Franklin St. Esso Station, worked construction with F.W. Brown Co., and was an Operating Engineer at several companies including Barney & Co. Michael was a devoted, hardworking man who raised four children providing them with his life lessons, experience and goal to do well in life. He was an active participant and dad who wore a smile of pride, not knowing his role as the patriarch would make him “The man, the myth and the legend.”

Upon retirement Mary and Mike moved to Beverly Hills Association in Hollywood, Florida. They were active on boards, committees and clubs always lending a hand to their community. Mike claimed the nickname, “Mr. Fixit” as he was always willing to do the job. With a smile on his face and a kick in his step his response to all when asked, “How are you Mike?” was “I’m still kicking” and “I’m living to 100 years to get a letter from the President.” He would have flown his flag as a proud Vet. He was brave and strong, determined to make 100 and in our eyes he did, although 24 days shy. Michael enjoyed all his years…if it was sailing his Sunfish out to sea, raking seaweed off the beach, flipping burgers at family gatherings, calling Bingo at the hall, playing GinRummy with his grandchildren, dancing with a twirling handkerchief, carrying a tool in his hand, or watching his family continuing to grow, he always did it with a smile and a heart that loved.

A private family burial at sea is planned.

Survivors include: Angelina DeBartolo, daughter who lived with her dad in Hollywood, Florida, Michael J. DeBartolo, Jr., son in Australia, Janice DeBartolo, daughter in Westerly, Rhode Island and Frank Pasquale DeBartolo, son in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Seven grandchildren: Dylan and wife Petranella DeBartolo, Nathan and wife Laura DeBartolo, Gavin DeBartolo, Bianca DeBartolo and Angelo DeBartolo, all of Australia. Jamie Issacs Guerra and husband Michael Guerra of Madison, Connecticut and Alexandra Issacs Derbacher and husband Karl Derbacher of Durham, Connecticut.

There are 10 great-grandchildren: Kristian Michael, Jasper, Annika, Tyla, Lily, Jagger, Brighton, Talan, Chase and Greyson.

Michael was the last surviving family member of parents (Vito, Angelina) and siblings (Frank, Joseph, Martha).

To share a memory or condolence please post a comment below at the funeral home website: www.bpfamilycare.com

In Michaels memory donations can be made to: Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org)

Arrangements entrusted to: Boyd-Panciera Family Funeral Care, 1600 N. University Drive, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33024.