Michael N. Placito, age 60, of Rome, passed away peacefully at his home after battling lung cancer with courage, dignity and humor. It took his life, but never took the life out of him.
He was born November 21, 1949, in Syracuse, a son of Andrew Sr. and Assunda Galeazza Placito. He entered the U.S. Air Force and served in Vietnam, the Phillipines, and Desert Storm/Desert Shield and at Griffiss Air Force Base, retiring in 1992. He also worked at the Paul Revere Motel where he turned his interest into hotel and restaurant management. Michael graduated from MVCC and SUNY Delhi where he received a Bachelor's Degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management. He was very proud of his internship at the Grand Floridian Resort at Disney World, Orlando, Florida. His favorite position was as Chef at Aquino's Restaurant
Michael met Dori Francescone in 1991, and they were inseparable from the beginning. They married on April 6, 2008. His life centered around his family and there was nothing he wouldn't do for them and he took great pride in their achievements. Michael's zest for life was contagious. He took enjoyment in golfing with his friends, reading, cooking and riding his Harley Davidson. Mike could be seen every day walking his canine buddies, Brandi and Tapanga.
He was a member of the Toccolano Club.
Michael is survived by his wife, Dori; children, Jeremy Trifeletti and girlfriend, Leigh Thompson of Rochester, Toni Trifeletti of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and Jeffrey Tarbania and fiance´e, Jenna Loretto of Rome; a sister, Elizabeth Placito of Syracuse; two brothers and sisters in law, Ralph and Pam Placito of Syracuse, and Andrew Jr, and Debra Placito of Albany; a sister in law, Roseann Francescone of Rome; brothers in law and a sister in law, Fred Francescone of Rome, and Patrick and Tisha Francescone of Rome; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and special friend, Rich Phalen of Westmoreland. He was predeceased by his mother and father and mother in law and father in law.
Funeral services will be held Thursday at 9:45 AM from the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street and at 10:30 AM at St. Peter's Church. Burial will be in St. Peter's Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may call at the funeral home, Wednesday 4 to 7 PM.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association or Vietnam Veteran of America.