Michael Thomas DePalma

Michael Thomas DePalma, born on February 10, 1951, in Providence, RI, peacefully passed away at home on June 26, 2024 in Corpus Christi, TX after a long battle with kidney and heart disease. Throughout his life, Michael embodied exploration, passion, and an unyielding love for traveling and adventure.

Michael began his journey serving his country as a medic in the Air Force from 1971 to 1975, where his dedication and compassion touched the lives of many. Following his honorable discharge, he embarked on a distinguished career as a research scientist at Bayer Pharmaceuticals from 1978 to 2003. His work was characterized by a deep curiosity and commitment to innovation, leaving a lasting impact on his field.

Outside of work, Michael thrived in the great outdoors, finding tranquility in hunting, fishing, and golfing to connect with nature and unwind from daily life. Michael's adventurous spirit led him to explore new places and experiences, creating cherished memories wherever he traveled.

Michael was preceded in death by his cherished mother, Cecelia DePalma. Michael leaves behind a loving family who truly meant the world to him: his devoted wife, Donna DePalma; his father, Domenic DePalma; his sister, Joanne Birdsell (Dennis) his brother, Ron DePalma; his three children, Mikey DePalma, Nicole DePalma-Wallace (Tom), and Carrie DePalma; his beloved grandchildren, Kaelee DePalma, Jaclyn DePalma, Jaydon Foster, Michael Trossen, Joseph Trossen and Austin Trossen; his nephew Ronnie Rabbit (Katie) who held a special place in his heart; Rommie DePalma, Nick DePalma, Billy DePalma, Derek Birdsell, Elizabeth Poindexter, Tasha DePalma; and 10 additional great-nieces and nephews. Michael was a source of strength to his family and his presence will be deeply missed.

A celebration of Michael's life will be on the White River near Bull Shoals, AK at 5:00pm Wednesday July 17,2024 where friends and family will come together to honor his memory and legacy. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Kidney Fund or the American Heart Association to support advancements in fighting kidney disease and congestive heart failure.

Michael Thomas DePalma will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his love for his family, and his unwavering determination to live life to the fullest. His legacy of strength, courage, and exploration will continue to inspire all who knew him.

*“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.” – Eleanor Roosevelt*