Michael D. DeMarsico
Michael D. DeMarsico, 44, of West Haven, loving husband to Paul Ringer, passed away at his home in West Haven, CT on February 24, 2018. He was born on July 19, 1973 in White Plains, NY to his parents Stephen and Susan (Mastandrea) DeMarsico. Along with his husband Paul, loving dog Chloe, and mother Susan, he is survived by his brother Stephen (Donna) DeMarsico, and niece Casey of West Harrison, NY. He is predeceased by his father Stephen DeMarsico, paternal grandparents Michael and Eva DeMarsico, and maternal grandparents John and Flora Mastandrea, all of West Harrison, NY. Michael attended Harrison Central Schools & while at HHS was a member of Marching Band, Orchestra, Declamation Group, Harrison Footlight Players, & belonged to National Honors Society. He graduated from Syracuse University Newhouse School with honors as a dual major in Journalism & Creative Writing. While at Syracuse, Michael was a member of the Marching Band and played at the Fiesta Bowl in AZ. Michael also worked as a summer camp counselor in West Harrison & appeared in productions of Harrison Footlight Players. Michael spent the early part of his career writing and editing. His writing could be seen in magazines like Out, Instinct, Next and A Bear’s Life. His career took a turn when he became the Youth Minister for several Unitarian congregations in Somerville, NJ, New Haven, CT and Melrose, MA. This was where his heart stayed, as he continued to work with children and was a gifted and inspiring mentor to all. Some of Michael’s side hobbies were a testament to Michael’s quirky nature. He took ballroom dance lessons for a couple of years (there is nothing like seeing a 6’2” bearded man in a ball gown dancing to the song Bosom Buddies with his dance teacher--that is typical Michael, but he did get high score for that one!) and when he wanted to try to be more athletic he even joined the Boston Ironsides Rugby Team for a brief stint in 2009. As his many friends can attest to, when Michael did something, he was all in. After moving to NYC in 2010, Michael joined several social groups that brought him joy like Stiff Competition (a games group that met regularly to play board games—and where Michael earned his nickname “Creamsicle,” because of the abundance of guys named Mike!) and New York Gay Geeks. The meetings and friendships that came out of these groups helped put smiles on his face and in his heart through some of the tough times. When he could no longer work, he went into volunteer mode and spent time helping out organizations such as Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids. Michael’s heart was evident everywhere he went and to all he met, from the friends he made at his groups to even the homeless around us in NYC, who would say “Hi Mike” as he passed by each day. From summer vacations in Provincetown each July with our friends to walks in the NYC parks with our dog, Chloe, Michael managed to cherish each and every day and live a life full of joy. A celebration of life will be scheduled in April in NYC. Arrangements in care of Beecher & Bennett Funeral Home, Hamden, CT. Donations in Michael’s name may be made to the Hudson Valley Pet Food Pantry, P.O. Box 1296, White Plains, NY 10602 or to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, 469 7th Ave. 498, NY, NY 10018, or to Broadway Cares/Equity Fight Aids: https://broadwaycares.org/online-carecard-donation.
I first met Michael at Syracuse University in 1992 and we remained friends ever since. I wish to share my condolences to Paul, Michael’s family, and Michael’s other friends. Michael was truly a beautiful soul who touched others who came into his life in so many positive ways. He will be missed.
I never had the pleasure of meeting Michael but I know he was a beautiful and loving soul. Sending prayers to Paul and Michael’s family and friends. May you be comforted knowing that Michael made a difference to many in his short life on Earth and that he is now in the arms of his Divine creator.
Paul: It’s difficult to put into words how challenging these recent days have been. Michael brought such great energy to wherever he went, and there will be many of us that are at a loss now without him. I cherish all the moments we were all together (well, maybe there’s a few moments that would make my eyes roll) in Boston, Provincetown, and NYC. Much love to you, Paul. You will always be a hero in my eyes, due to your strident dedication and focus during Michael’s long illness.
What a beautiful tribute this is. I never had the pleasure of meeting Michael but in knowing Paul, I know he had to be a spectacular human being. My thoughts and prayers to Paul and all of Michaels family and friends
A beautiful tribute Paul, Michael was loved and will always be with you. Our prayers go out to you and his family.
I knew Michael through a mutual friend in the early 90s and grew to love his wit and wisdom. My heart goes out to Paul’s and Michael’s families. Love always, Abbey
Love and Light to all who were touched by this kind man. I knew Michael while he was DRE at UUCMC in Lincroft, NJ. It was an honor to know him, he was loved and respected.
Michael was compassionate, kind, and humble. He was a great listener. His quirky sense of humor didn’t hurt either! In so many ways he was rare and magnificent. Thank you for the beautiful tribute, Paul, that brought the first smile to my face since I heard of his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Chloe, and all his family and friends.
Our thoughts are with all of you in this time of sorrow. May the memories of Michael be a source of comfort at this time.
Dear Sue & family, our deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved son, Michael, our hearts are broken for you at this very sad time. May Michael’s memory always be a blessing, so very sorry for your loss.
To Susan & family – My sincere sympathies to you and yours – although I did not know him he certainly was an intelligent and awesome person. God bless you for all of the pain you have endured and you are in my prayers. Love Lizzie Bianco Erwin