Michael A. Fortunato

MICHAEL A. FORTUNATO age 68, beloved husband of Debbie (nee Sieferd); loving father of his greatest accomplishments, Michael (wife Lindsay), Nicholas (girlfriend Ashlee), and Anthony (wife Jena); wonderful Papa to Owen, Vincent, Gianna, and two precious babies coming later this year; son of the late Anthony and Joyce (nee Blood); brother of Cathie Tyrrell (husband Tom); brother-in-law of Vickie Scheider (husband Al), and the late Bonnie Capuozzo and Howard Sieferd; "Uncle Mike" to all his nieces, nephews, and friends.

“Big Mike” as he was known by many, was a known figure in the Euclid community for decades. He was somewhat of a jack of all trades and an absolute wealth of knowledge. You didn’t have to know him well to end up talking to him for hours on end. He made friends wherever he went and everywhere his family goes they run into someone who knows him, even several states away. Bearing his last name, his sons can’t escape; “You Mike’s kid?” His infectious personality was a joy to be around, and his laugh was always contagious.

Mike was loved dearly by his family and “extended family.” Known lovingly as “Uncle Mike” by many who don’t share a bloodline. He was a true father figure who wouldn’t hesitate to not only help but give tough love where he felt necessary. At the same time would love to bust your chops. Always willing to help out friends or family, Mike would help you work on your car, build a deck, paint your house, pick you up at the airport or just be your drinking buddy. He also never stopped sharing his wisdom with anyone who wanted to learn. He instilled much of that into his sons. Just ask them how often they have someone else change their oil or rotate their tires. He must have heard, “How do you even know how to do this?” hundreds of times throughout his life.

In his later years, his grandkids became the highlight of his life. He would light up the second they came running through his door and no one made him laugh more than they did. There was nothing that he loved more than getting his whole family together to share a meal, some drinks and some great stories. Mike will be dearly missed by many; his loving and devoted wife of more than 45 years, his sons who idolized him, his grandchildren who loved their “Papa,” his daughter in-laws who cherished him, his nieces and nephews and extended nieces and nephews, his Daytona RV park friends and his thousands of friends who he acquired throughout his 68 short years. Christmas Eve Eve won’t be the same without him.

Mike took his final breath on March 14, surrounded by his wife and three boys. He will be forever missed by all, and forgotten by none.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you instead use that money to do something special with your grandkids, kids, parents, friends or loved ones. He may not have found joy from flowers, but he did find joy in life and sharing it with others. We ask that you do the same. Spend time with family and friends, play some golf or pickleball, go fishing or camping. All things Mike loved.

Mass of Christian Burial Monday, March 24, 2025, at Ss. Robert and William Catholic Church, 367 E. 260th Street, Euclid, OH 44132, at 10AM.

Burial following at All Souls Cemetery.

Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Mike at THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS, 28890 CHARDON ROAD (between Bishop Rd. and Rt. 91) SUNDAY 2-6 PM.