Your cart is currently empty!
Asselta, Michael F.
Michael Francis Asselta was born on July 2, 1945, the son of Ralph M. Asselta and Theresa Y. Asselta. He is survived by his wife, Sandra, his older brother, Tony Asselta (Kathleen), his two sons, Michael and Thomas (Kristin), and his beloved grandchildren, Greyson and Sophia. Known for his quick wit, joie de vivre and fabulous Long Island accent, Mike was a treasure to his family and friends.
Mike was retired from the Gates-Chili School District, where he was an elementary educator for many years. He was a devoted husband of 47 years to Sandy and a dedicated father to his sons and grandchildren. He was also a much-loved family member to Sandy’s siblings and their extended families. Sandy and Mike’s happy and adventurous marriage was a model for others. They shared a love of travel and toured Italy together, as well as much of North America, including Alaska.
Mike was a man who made a difference in the world. He volunteered for decades at many philanthropic organizations dedicated to human services and the arts. In Rochester, he volunteered at the Dimitri House, Foodlink, the Rochester International Jazz Festival and the Fairport Music Festival. In Wilmington, North Carolina, he was significantly involved at the Sister Isaac Center and the Good Shepherd Center for those in need. Mike was an avid bicyclist and participated for many years in the Tour de Cure, to raise money for diabetes, and Bike MS.
From his St. Francis University fraternity brothers to his bicycling partners and his pool playing comrades, Mike had wonderful friends across the nation. Michael’s character, reliability and commitment to his family, friends, and community were a wonderful example to those who knew and loved him. His wonderful and unique presence will be missed by all.
Funeral Mass held Saturday August 29, 2020 10AM at Church of the Assumption, Fairport.
in lieu of flowers please consider donations to
St. Francis University or
Dorothy Day Outreach Center at St. Francis University
117 Evergreen Drive
Loretto, PA 15940
Comments
54 responses to “Asselta, Michael F.”
Mike, or as some of us affectionately knew him as Goody, he is one of the finest people I have had the good fortune of knowing and being able to call him a friend. He touched so many lives in a very positive way from keeping old friends together to having us help him raise money for MS. All these things were his ideas and he made us better people by following his lead. We will miss him and to Sandra and his family our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Goody As we called Mike, was the Rock of the Alpha Phi Delta/FUI brotherhood. He liked and reached out to everyone he met.. He Was the glue that kept our Brotherhood together.. everyone loved him. He loved to laugh and was devoted to more charitable causes than anyone I know. He was generous with his time for all good causes. Goody created the FUI Open and many other events that brought the St Francis, Alpha, FUI Brotherhood together for over 50 years. To quote one of our brothers when you met Goody you liked him but when you got to know him you loved him.. He was the bridge between older and younger generations. This is a devastating loss. Our love, sympathy and prayers go out to Sandra, Michael, Tom and his family. You can be sure he is now your Guardian Angel in heaven. I know he now has gotten the heavenly reward he so much deserved for the Good Life he spent on this earth. We will all miss you Goody.
Claude
I have known Mike for over 40 years.. We both coached in the Fairport Baseball program and both of our families were parishioners at The Church of the Resurrection for many years. In recent years we both enjoyed bicycling in bicycling clubs.and golfing together, as well. Mike will be greatly missed by all who knew him. His friendliness, kindness, generosity and fun loving demeanor will never be forgotten by his many friends and family members whose lives he touched..
Debbie and I have only known Mike for a short time but in that time we were blessed to experience his friendship, his humor, his kindness and generosity. Mike enjoyed doing things for others and especially those in need. We are so thankful for the times we did have with Mike and our love and prayers go out to Sandy and the family. May cherished memories of Mike always make you smile.
Deepest condolences to you all. Mike was an incredible man and loved by so many. My heart and prayers are with you today, tomorrow, and all the days to come.
I will miss seeing Mike at Highlander on Sunday’s watching the Bills games and talking shop about Xerox throughout the season. I’m especially sorry we never got a chance to ride bikes together, even though we talked about it often. My heart goes out to Sandy and his boys! I will miss you and proud call you friend even though we’ve only known each other for a short time. Good speed Mike!
Goody was a truly special person. He was always helping those in need and was a constant source for good. We as brothers in Alpha we’re blessed to have known him I am sure God will give him rest. He will be missed.
My heartfelt condolences and prayers to your family Sandy. From your Wilmington golf buddy and Sunshine partner. Sue
Sandra and Family, Debbie and I send our sincere condolences for the loss of your loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather. “Goody” made this world a better place for so many of us. His legacy is a life of selfless caring and sharing with so many others. He brought joy to all knew him.
So very sorry for your loss Sandy. I know that Michael always loved you and spoke of you often. Hopefully you will find each other in heaven, and have an alpha reunion.
I know that’s where you are Goody, with your big generous heart!! Rest in Pease..
“PS My Michael, “Bass ” that is.
Deepest sympathy Sandi to you and your family from Will and family.I will be praying each day on the first station of the cross that God comforts you and your family in this tragic loss of your wonderful husband.Over the years its been a great pleasure to spend time with you ,Mike and family at several vacation locations.He was a great man and will be sadly missed.Lots of love in Christ to you and family at this difficult time.
Sandy: My condolences to you and your family on Mike’s passing. I used to really enjoy seeing him at the Southeast Y and recalling our days at Resurrection. I’m sure he will be missed by all who knew him,
There are so many words that described Mike…He absolutely loved bicycling…he loved his family …he lived his faith…he was the most charitable and giving person I knew….he brought fun and laughter to everyone around him…..he was inspirational……My husband Tom and I are so thankful we were privileged to know him for over 40 years…..his legacy and memories of him will always be with us….our thoughts and prayers are with Sandy and his family .
Carol and I extend our heartfelt condolences. As teachers from Gates-Chili, we witnessed his dedicated professionalism for many years. His patience and kindness was truly a gift to all of his students. We will all miss him.
May God comfort you and your family at this time. May you feel His Holy Spirit carry you through this sad time. May the memories and life you shared together help you. All my love, Francesca
I had the pleasure of knowing Mike from my many years with the National MS Society. He was truly a good man and generous soul who cared deeply for his family. His commitment to Bike MS, not only here in Rochester but also in NC, and raising money to help others was an inspiration to me and to many others. His light will surely shine on. Deepest sympathy to his family.
Sandy, Kathy and I shocked and saddened to hear of Mike”s passing. Although we haven”t seen you all recently, remember fondly the days early on at Resurrection..
I was fortunate to have met Goody more than 50 years ago at St..Francis College. He was the glue that kept his fraternity brothers and college friends together for over half a century! Goody was ALWAYS tirelessly doing things for us and others. I will miss him very much.
Mike was a cherished volunteer at Dimitri House. We will miss him terribly. Many years ago he and I volunteered at the overnight men’s shelter when I was first getting involved. His compassion and sense of humor will long be remembered. He gave so much of his time to others and set a fabulous example for others.
Goody, We sure are going to miss you. You have been an anchor in our lives for over 50 years. Thanks for all the Goodtimes and everything that you do. You will live on in our hearts until we meet again. D’Van
When Mike was hired at Gates Chili we team taught sixth grade at Warren Harding elementary. Forty-seven years ago next month Mike covered my class late in the school day so I could leave for a trip to the hospital with my wife and the eventual birth of our daughter. We often reminded each other of that. Through the years playing golf , bocce tournaments, going to dinner with our wives, seeing local performances and other events were a treat with Mike. We will miss his smile and easygoing way of looking at life.
Sandy–I carry fond memories of the entire Asselta family in my heart. Mike (Mr. Asselta) always gave me a warm hello and greeting every 4th July. I was heartened to know that my mom and dad will be by your side. Love and prayers, Carrie
Dearest Sandy and family, our hearts weep for you. Hoping you find peace and comfort in the warm and happy memories of your life together with Mike. Wish we could be there with you, but know that you have been in our hearts and prayers.. May you find comfort in your faith and Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.
All our love and hugs, Bill & Arlene
I always enjoyed my conversation with Mike on our bike rides. We will miss his enthusiasm .
I was both shocked and saddened to hear of Mike’s passing. From Perinton Youth Hockey to the Tour de Cure, Mike supported his sons and the community. I will miss seeing him on the Tour, but will think of him when I ride. My condolences to Sandra, Tom and the entire family. Mike was a friend and a treasure to the community.
I am shocked and sorry to hear about the passing of Mike! We both taught at Florence Brasser Elementary School for many years We were on the third grade teaching team. He was a very nice kind man and a contentious hard-working teacher. He was nice to everyone. He had a big heart. Even back then he volunteered for many charities, especially for the homeless. I remember him and his wife walking to raise money for breast cancer research. He was a loving husband and loved his boys. He was a great golfer and bike rider too! He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved him!
Goody, you were a doer and organizer. Always looking out for others and reaching out to those who needed help. Heaven gained an angel and we lost a giving and loving brother. God rest your soul. Sympathy and condolenscences to Sandra, your sons and grandchildren..
Whether “Bike NY” through the five boroughs or bike Monroe County,even to Genesee Country Museum, Mike was always a delight to ride with on these many roads. May he run into Wendy soon! 🙂 Condolences to Sandy and the family.
I met Mike on our MS Bike Charity Ride team and recruited him to our Tour-de-Cure team. He was very involved in local charity bike rides and fundraising. Always smiling, always very positive, and always a gentleman, it and was my pleasure to know him.
Dear Goody: From the time we met on the putting green at SFU back in 2008, I knew that you were something special. I was there for my 40th reunion and you were just hanging out, as I was, waiting for someone to come along to play with. We spent a wonderful 4 hours together and, over time, you invited me to join a great group of Alpha brothers at events such as the FUI Open, dinners at that homey restaurant in Galitzin, and having you join our SFC group each year for golf in Myrtle Beach. Although I didn’t know you well at SFC, I was so impressed at your depth of knowledge and warmth about everything and everyone Saint Francis. Rest in Peace, My Friend.
I saw Mike biking frequently but we rode in different groups. However, one time he approached me and asked me if I was related to his former principal. When I told him I was, he went on to praise her professionally and personally. His kindness and positive manner impressed me and left me feeling that Mike was a good hearted person, one I would choose to be a friend and colleague. He will be missed. My deepest sympathies to his family.
I first met Goody over 50 years ago when I was pledging the Alpha fraternity. He would stop in Williamsport as he was passing through. Always asked about my oldest grandson, Jeffrey. He took a special interest in him. I have always admired those who have taken the time to give back to those who are less fortunate. Nobody did it better than Goody. Loved being around him and will miss him very much. He keep all us brothers together. To Sandy, his sons and grand=children, please accept my deepest sympathies. I know he’s already started the FUI chapter in heaven. God now has another angel. Rest in peace Goody.
Dear Sandra, Mikie, and Tommy, Rod and i are so deeply saddened and shocked to hear about the loss of Michael. I’ve known him since I was a young girl back in Farmingdale and called him by all his names – Michael, Mike, Uncle Mike, and yes, now I remember, Goody. There are so many fond memories of Mike; he was always so good-natured and ready to help anyone. Though we haven’t seen each other in years, Rod and I will never forget how, when I had to be rushed back to the hospital after giving birth to my first born way back in 1979, the only people we knew were you and Mike and you both rushed over immediately to be there with your young Mikie and stayed with our newborn son until Rod could come home hours later. I am so sorry for your loss. He will be missed by so many people. May his presence in heaven watch over you, may your memories comfort you, and may God bless you, Mikie, Tommy, Kristin, Greyson, and Sophia.
Dear Sandra, Our condolences to you,Michael,Thomas and Family. Michael will be missed by the many people whose lives he touched.
His friendship, humor and generosity enriched us all. I’ll smile reminiscing about the many fun times we spent together over the past 50+ years.
Until we meet again, RIP Goody
Dear Sandy: I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved husband. You both looked so happy. His picture shows a warm smile, much like yours. You must have known some magic together to both display that lovable smile. I did not know him, but I feel for you and your family at this time.
I knew Goody for over 50 year, ever since we were in the Alpha Phi Delta fraternity at Saint Francis College. What do I remember best?
– The many good times and trips
– Camping and FUI opens
– Visiting Goody after his heart surgery
– Going to a World Series game together last year
– Doing the last FUI Zoom session just a few days before
I will really miss that guy. Last night I cried, again.
Everyone that knew Michael “ Goody” Asselta has him perched him perched high on the rung in their personal hall of fame. It was an honor and a privilege to count him as a friend, fraternity brother and fellow Red Flash supporter . Goody was forever organizing, pushing for MS ,promoting the FUI Open, biking treks, year round in addition to a million other interests .
Good was a giver of his time , talents and treasure doing what he could always to help others . He maintained relationships like no other person I have ever met. The void he leaves is one that can never be replaced . We are all left with the memories.
A few of these include the late night return from a field trip to Bedford with a band of 1970 grads. . The Barrel of Fun at Woody’s and those annual pools for those very valuable prizes at the annual FUI Opens.
Prayers and condolences to Sandy ,he boys and family We will keep you in our prayers.. We will see you on the other side my friend.
Although his many friends in North Carolina did not have 40-50 years to know Mike – his legacy here is just as strong. He lived a life of caring, charity, volunteering and philanthropy. But also throw in a lot of biking, golf, pool playing, brewery tours and many other fun things that he liked. Mike and I were volunteer cooks for 10 years at the Good Shepherd homeless shelter. He had a way of trying to get his Italian style into many of our recipes. We realized very early that we had many mutual friends from my days growing up in central Pa. and his college days at St Francis. We loved to share stories and Goody always would tell some great ones – including the infamous Punxsutawney Phil episode. All the volunteers, our spouses and the staff that worked with him every Wednesday are heartbroken but we will never forget Mike. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sandra and all his family.
Oh my dear, sweet friend Sandy! I know how much you will miss your best friend Michael. I can just hear him butting into our conversations at your house, or while on the telephone with you. I loved to watch him graze when he arrived home and oh how I loved his cooking! I will always remember his smile, the twinkle In his eye, and how he loved you. Marshall will miss his golf buddy too. God bless Michael and may God hold you close in His loving arms during this sad time.
My sincerest condolences to Mike’s family and friends. I worked with him through several bicycling-related projects in the Wilmington, NC area. I will never forget his dedication, sense of humor or wonderful accent. Sending love and prayers.
My thoughts & prayers are with our brother Mike “Goody,” Sandy and his family
So hard to believe he’s gone. I remember the days well in the fraternity house & Goody was the life of the party and of everyday life. His heart was always in the right place.
He was still very enviable with much vim & vigor – always full of energy – biking, no less!!
He always wanted a “good time” for all.
An exceptional man!
May God rest his soul!
Dom
I am saddened to hear that Mike has left us. I always looked forward to seeing him at Bike MS and Tour de Cure. I have many fond memories of doing training rides together. Mike frequently made up his own version of the intended routes but never got us lost. We always had a lot of laughs.
My prayers and sympathy go out to Sandy and the rest of the family. Rest In Peace, Mike.
Sandy, thank you for sharing Mike with us! He set the standard for being s dedicated husband, father, grandfather and friend. He lived life to the fullest!
We know he loved cycling and when I would go to the Southeast Y, his bike would be out front rain or. shine. When Ellen & I went to 8:30am mass, Mike’s bike would be out front. Mike was not a holy roller type but he was an action guy who would help those in need.
God bless you & your family in the days to come!
Goody never met a stranger. He had a heart of gold and a personality to go with it. He was generous with his love of people and he kept a very busy social life, including always helping others. MS was special to him and he must have raised a fortune for them over the many years of his fund raising. Everybody loved to support him in any way possible because of his genuine kindness.
Sandra, my heart goes out to you. I just buried my wife two days ago who passed away in February. We had 53 years of married life plus four more prior to that at SFU. We were both Classmates of Mike’s and enjoyed spending time with you and him a number of times. Goody and I pledged Alpha the same time and it seems to me that I got the “paddle” a lot more than he did which proves again about how much he was liked even back then! May Mike RIP. And Sandra, may God give you Peace and fond Memories.
Dear Sandy, I was very sadden to read of Mike’s passing. I have fond memories of both him and you during our early teaching days at Holy Apostles.
My condolences to you and your family. May the memories you shared help to console you during this difficult time. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Sandy, I happened to be looking at the obits this evening and when I saw the name, I knew that I knew the name. I am so sorry for you and your family. It sounds as though you and Mike had very happy years together. I have fond memories of both of you from our days together at Holy Apostles as I saw that Jean Adamo had written. I have fond memories of you and MaryAnn and many of the others who taught with us. I thought that you might have left the area but you must have remained in Fairport. May all the happy, precious memories enfold you and give you solace at this sad time. I loved seeing the pictures of your family.
We are so saddened to hear of Mike’s passing. He was such a lovely man with such a lovely family. It was always a treat to run into an Asselta. We are so sorry for your loss.
You will be in our prayers.
Dear Sandy & family,
We were shocked & very sorry to hear of Mike’s sudden death. Of all things – a biking accident – an activity he loved. Mike was so admired for his genuine interest & involvement in doing – all that was good & right. He was humble & caring – a true pathway to Heaven..And now the time has come for him to park his bike & Rest In Peace..
Our Thoughts & Prayers,
Pat & Tom Gill
I met Mike at the Dimitre House , he was such a pleasure to be in his company on the Tuesdays that he volunteered. He always brightened up the day! We were fortunate to have Mike ias a friend.
Dear Sandy and family, Goody’s accident & passing has devastated all of us, but our deepest sympathies go to you and your family. He was such a special person-one-of-a-kind, as you well know. Your marriage and family were always his priority, but he also made all of us feel special and he kept us all connected in so many ways.
Even though it’s so hard for all of us to accept, there’s a saying that goes “He only takes the best”, so God’s plan must be that Goody is needed with Him now. He will be in our hearts forever and our fraternity & SFU will keep and honor his legacy.
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers and that you will always be an important part of our Alpha and SFU groups.
Sending our deepest sympathy to Mike’s family and friends…..Our prayers and condolences……Sea Coast Rentals family in Hampstead/Wilmington, NC
Harry met Mike at the Good Shepherd volunteering in the kitchen about 14 years ago . Harry would come home laughing about a story this guy Mike shared. Mike was a generous man who played in our Golf Tournament supported our Foundation. One year I turn around and there is Mike standing there in his Bike Clothing -. He said” I was riding my bike and realized I forgot about the Tournament”. He apologized and gave us a donation.Mike could have waited until Wednesday at Good Shepherd talked to Harry – nope he went out of his way coming to the course.. As time went on we got to know Sandy, we began going to dinner. When Mike and Sandy came into ST.. Marys Basilica in Wilmington for Mass, Mike would smile ask you how you were doing- yep you would have thought the POPE walked in.
Mike may no longer be at our sides but he sure has left sweet recollections. We will have memories in our hearts forever. We Miss you Mike.
Sandy, We scheduled a Mass for Mike –October 1, 2020 at 7:30 AM. at Church of Assumption, Fairport, NY.