Raised in Orange, NJ, Michelle lived with her mother, father and brother, whom she loved dearly. She was a sweet, kind, and beautiful little girl. Her mom entered her in a beauty contest, where she placed third. Her dad was a dental technician and she and her brother would often help him in the lab.
Some of her favorite hang outs where Jimmy Buff’s, and The Manor. She later became a banquet waitress following in her mother’s footsteps. She grew this passion in the hospitality industry working at the Chanticler then becoming Head Banquet Server at the Brooklake Country Club, planning weddings and events, making dreams come true and creating memories for so many to last their lifetime. Just like her mother and Aunt Phyllis, Michelle was the ultimate party planner bringing all the family together for Holidays, Birthdays and Special events.
She later worked for MCA Insurance Co., during the day as an Insurance Claims adjuster and a weekend party planner at the Country Club. She worked hard and made sure her girls, had everything they needed.
It was at the Brooklake CC where Michelle met her husband Roman, they had a son and later moved to Sarasota, FL where she lived out the rest of her life. Working hard and continuing to host and plan family and friends’ parties and events. She was very involved with her church, St. Martha’s, where she donated her time for many years, planning the monthly family meal for 100+ guests. She planned the menu, shopped for all the ingredients, cooked the entire meal, set the entire room, served everyone, and cleaned it all up after, all for the love of bringing people together. This was her gift, her passion. She loved life and wanted to be present in all things bringing happiness.
Through all the years she went above and beyond for everyone in her life. She never forgot a birthday and always sent a card signed all my/our love. She made sure that no matter where the family may have moved on to, she kept us all – the entire family, extended family and more connected “the family glue.”
Michelle is preceded in death by her mother Concetta, father Luigi Marino, Aunt Phyllis and Uncle Tom Maguire. She is survived by her daughters Jenifer Gordon-Ortiz (Harry) and Dawn Barry, son Lance Corporal Roman Palma, brother Anthony Marino (Marta), grandsons Gabriel and Giovanni. Survived by niece Corporal Natalie Marino and nephew Anthony T. Marino, and many, many cousins who love her dearly along with extended family and friends near and far.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmsrobartsfuneralhome.com for the family.
Dear Beloved Family and Friends,
It would be my honor if you would join on this day to celebrate my/our most unique life we all shared together.
With all my/our love,
Love Michelle,
Jenifer, Dawn & Roman
Funeral Arrangement:
When: Monday, July 11th
Where: Robert Toale & Sons at Palms Memorial Park
170 Honore Ave., Sarasota, FL 34232
Time:
• Visiting Hour 12:00 to 1:00 PM
• Service 1:00 PM
• Burial 1:45 PM
• Reception 2:00 – 4:00 PM
Celebration of Life: After Party
Where: Longitude 82 Clubhouse “Café” and Poolside
5900 Wilkinson Rd.,
Sarasota, FL 34233
Time: 4:30 to 8:30 PM
Casual affair - Food and Drinks – Swimming Optional.
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