Mr. Michael S. "Mike" Perri Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

UTICA – Mr. Michael S. “Mike” Perri, age 31, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, May 12, 2022, with his loving family by his side. Mike was born in Utica on April 24, 1991, to Sandra L. (Talerico) Vatalaro and the late Guy Perri, who lovingly raised him. Mike was also blessed to know his biological father, Anthony “Tony” Joseph, who had a role in guiding him later in his adult years, and with whom Mike had made and shared memories during their time together. Mike was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. Mike shared a loving relationship with Dena Sabo, and from their time together came the blessing of their son, Michael. At one time, Mike held a position as an Asbestos Removal Specialist. A man with a heart of gold, Mike did all he could for all those he knew. He was very charitable, always giving from his heart and looking out for family and friends. Moreover, Mike treated each person in his life with love and respect and constantly prioritized making time to help others—especially when things were difficult for them. A man people could count on, family and friends knew Mike could help them through! Mike also had a beautiful sense of humor. He was even affectionately known by his family and friends as “Big Mike.” A football player during his Proctor days, Mike had enjoyed playing the sport and continued to live life in the fast lane thereafter. He loved playing video games, enjoyed visiting water parks, was an outdoor activity enthusiast, and relished a good meal at Babe’s Restaurant. Mike is survived by his mom, Sandra L. Vatalaro, and her companion, Jim Spratt; and his father, Anthony “Tony” Joseph, and his love Ruthann Crandall. He will live on in the heart of his adored son, Michael Finnley Sabo-Perri; as well as his loving companion, Dena A. Sabo. Mike leaves behind his sister, Sandra A. Vatalaro, who lovingly guided and nurtured him throughout his life like a mother; his brother, Nicholas R. Vatalaro, III, and Amanda; and his brother-in-law, Louis Lopez. Mike also shared a sibling relationship upon his uniting with his biological father, Anthony Joseph, with Toni Joseph, Anthony Joseph, Ashley Joseph, Jeremy Ming, and Jihan Ming. He will be fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews, especially Louis Lopez, Jr. and Alyssa Lopez; and Brayden Raymond Vatalaro, Michael Anthony Vatalaro, Vincent Salvatore Vatalaro, Nicholas Ralph Vatalaro, IV, and Vinny S. whom he adored as his own children; and his aunts and uncles, including Barbara Starwich-Geese, Cecilia Kerwin, Anna Talerico, Cheryl Talerico, Ernest Talerico, Jr., and Richard Talerico. Mike leaves behind Dena’s parents, Michelle and Gregory Sabo, and their children Joseph, and Shannon Sabo. He also leaves behind many cousins that he was close to, including Andrea Talerico. He enjoyed many wonderful friendships, and shared in brotherly relationships with Frank Crouse, and Robert Crouse; their mother Renita Zayas; Jeremy Guzman; Mike Monahan; Junior, Ronnie, and Harold Burgos; and Billy Hubbard. Mike was predeceased by his grandfather, Ernest A. Talerico, Sr., whose memory he cherished. The Perri family would like to extend their thanks to Lisa Tanner, who helped guide Mike; to Gina Hobika, who also guided him; to Rich Nicotera, who aided as a mentor; and to the staff at KIDS Oneida, for their kindness and compassion. Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 21, 2022, from 3:00 to 5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Mike’s Funeral Service and Celebration of Life will commence immediately upon conclusion of visitation at the funeral home.

Mr. Michael S. "Mike" Perri

April 24, 1991 - May 12, 2022