On March 21st, Michael passed peacefully into eternal life. He served in the U.S. Army, graduated from Fordham University, and obtained a graduate degree from City University of New York. He worked as a teacher and librarian for North Babylon School District for many years. He was one-time president of the North Babylon Teachers Organization. Michael was passionate about social justice and promoting the human dignity of all. His family and faith were the catalyst of all his activities, which included the Knights of Columbus, Anthony J. Foley Council; Christ the King Church lector, Respect Life Committee, Teams of Our Lady and Sons of Italy. Michael attended the March on Washington in 1963 and was active in the civil rights movement and the Catholic Interrelational Council, and supported the United Farm Workers movement. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Iris; children Gina Lanz (Jack), Patricia Antonelli (Joel), Michael V. (Karen), Mary Grove (Samuel), Susan Murphy (Mark), Anne Rabasca; beloved cousins, June Heery (Joseph), Eileen Heery and godchild Karen Heery Reynolds (Todd); grandchildren Joanna Stevens (James), John and Rachel Lanz; Nicholas Antonelli, Alexandra Sarno; Grace, Gail, Helen Rabasca; Benjamin, Julia, Aidan Murphy; brother Louis (Jennie); close nieces, nephews and cousins, locally and in Italy. Reposing Nolan & Taylor-Howe Funeral Home, 5 Laurel Avenue, Northport, Wednesday 2-5 & 7-9 PM. Funeral Mass Thursday 10 AM Christ the King Church, Commack. Interment with US Army Military Honors to follow at St. Charles Cemetery, Farmingdale. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Wounded Warriors Project and Life Center of Long Island in Michael's memory.