In Memory of Michael (Mr. Mike) Felice Mazzei

Obituary

It is with great sadness; we announce the passing of our very dear friend. Surrounded by many whom loved him, Michael (Mr. Mike) Felice Mazzei, passed in the early morning hours of Tuesday, September 25, 2024. Michael was born July 26, 1931, in Utica, to the late Michele and Giannina (Trecca) Mazzei.

He completed his primary education, 1936-1949, having attended R. Conkling, T. Roosevelt, and T. Proctor schools. He received his bachelor’s degree in Zoology from St. Lawerance University in 1953 and a master’s degree in business and finance from Syracuse University, 1956. He later joined the United States Army as a First Lieutenant in the Medical Service Corp. for the years of 1956-1958.

Michael’s impressive career began as a Research biology, later, Marketing Product Management for Lederele Laboratories, Stuart Pharmaceuticals and Riker Laboratories/3M. He later became Account Executive for Klemner Advertising Agency and finally ending his impressive career (1970-1981) with and equal partnership for the advertising firm of Baxter, Durian and Mazzei, Inc. His success allowed for the early retirement at the age of 50.

Michael lived his 93 years to the fullest. His many ventures lead him to an exciting life in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica, CA, two decades in the historic district of downtown Manhattan and full circle, back to Utica to Acacia Village, to spend time with his family and friends.

Mike had years of knowledge and worldly experience. His advice to living a long and fulfilling life:

First, always remain curious and inquisitive. Start every day with the intention to grow and always strive to learn something new. Secondly, and more importantly, never lose your sense of humor. He would always say that you should start every day with a “good belly laugh”. Anyone who truly knew Mike was well-aware of his hilarious, satiric wit and incredible sense of humor.

Mike was an incredible supporter of the arts. He was an avid reader and spent most of his days surrounded by an impressive library of books and an even more impressive collection of art. He had a great appreciation of opera, classical music and ballet.

Michael is survived by his brother, Anthony G. Mazzei (the late Rozolynda Mazzei) of Utica, Michael and Lisa Mazzei, his great-nephews, Michael and Salvator Mazzei, also of Utica. He was predeceased by his brother, Alfredo and, sister-in-law, Esther Mazzei. Most of all, Michael leaves behind Matthew C. Holt and Scott J. Carpenter of New Hartford. They loved and cared for him for many years; Mike reciprocated the love and considered them as his sons.

Many thanks to his friends and caregivers for all the time and consideration given to Mike throughout the years. He was greatly appreciative! A special thank you to Nicolette and Anthony Fraccola, Jon and Mellisa Fanelli, Cheryl Costello, Teressa DiNardo, Pamela and Robert Sutcliffe, Patti and Jim Mitro, Mrs. Nancy Murray, Thomas Holt Jr. and family, Mr. Rick Halili of NYC, Nick from “The Band of Angels”, as well as his Godson, Christopher Frati of California, and Kelly, Bonnie, and Amy of Acacia Village.

Please make all charitable contributions to The Stanly Theater.

Visitation will be held Monday, September 30, 2024, at “The Chapel” on the Masonic Campus at 11:00am, then followed by the Memorial service at 12:00pm. Interment will follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery in Yorkville, NY. Arrangements are with Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 13 Oxford Rd., New Hartford.

For online expressions of sympathy go to fwefh.com.