Mr. Michael J. Cristalli

UTICA - Mr. Michael J. Cristalli, age 76, went peacefully to heaven as he passed away on Sunday, March 18, 2018 at the Abraham House with his loving family at his side. Born in Utica on May 6, 1941, Michael was the son of the late Michael A. Ret./UPD and Mary T. (Vedete) Cristalli. He was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1959 and he remained close to his classmates to the end of his days. A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Michael honorably served his country from 1960-1963 serving in Greenland as well as stateside. After his military service, he attended Utica College of Syracuse University where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts. On August 26, 1967 he married the former Barbara A. DeNigro. They were a couple who complemented each other personalities and enjoyed similar life styles; he was especially proud of being a dad. Michael and Barb celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in August. Mike was employed by the General Electric Company now known as Lockheed Martin for over 31 years as a Contract Negotiator. He was a man of integrity in all aspects of his life. He was loyal, honest, moral, wonderful, and wise. As a proud father, he encouraged his son to follow his own life’s desires and dreams. Michael loved celebrating Christmas in Vegas with his family and he treasured those memorable times. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed the comradery with his special friends on the fairways, and he looked forward to poker night with his pals, where he always broke even! He practiced his Catholic faith as a parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church Michael is survived by his wife, Barbara; his son and daughter-in-law, Michael V. Cristalli, Esq. and Kristyn (Castronovo) Cristalli of Las Vegas; his adored grandchildren, Michael V. Cristalli II, and Christopher Joseph Cristalli; and his sister and brother-in-law, Elaine and Ralph Polito. He also leaves his sister-in-law, Pattie Barnaba and her late husband Lou, who recently passed away on March 11, 2018. Michael and Lou will continue to watch over their loved ones from above; He will also remain in the hearts of his nieces and nephews, Mary Polito and her husband John Kostick, Joseph Polito, Bridgette and Bill Brittelli, and Louie Barnaba; his great-niece and great-nephew, Bianca, and Billy Brittelli; and cousins. Michael was favored with many longtime friends, especially Larry Sardelli who was his kindergarten buddy. He was predeceased by his in-laws, Vincent and Sophie DeNigro, and brother-in-law Vincent DeNigro. The family is grateful to Dr. Julie Betro-Shkane and her excellent staff, Dr. Nancy Shaheen, and Dr. John Detraglia, superior physicians and special friends who provided Michael with their medical expertise. It was through the kind words of their dear friend Joyce Rossi who introduced them to the tender care of those of the Abraham House and the staff at Hospice & Palliative Care. All of these caretakers exceeded any and all expectations and their warmth and kindness will never be forgotten. The family honored and commemorated Mike’s life at a private time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Michael’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Saturday morning at 11:00 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Mark A. Kaminski with Military Honors conferred. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of Mass. Interment in Calvary Cemetery will take place at the convenience of the family. In lieu flowers, please consider memorial donations in Michael’s honor to the Abraham House; envelopes will be available at the service or online at http://www.theabrahamhouse.org/donations/.

Mr. Michael J. Cristalli

May 6, 1941 - March 18, 2018