Michael "Mike" "Bull" Anthony Maranto

Michael “Mike” “Bull” Anthony Maranto, 79, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, passed away on June 8, 2026. Mike was born on June 7, 1947, at the old Our Lady of the Lake Hospital in Baton Rouge to June Miller Maranto Perkins and Vincent John “Bende” Maranto. He attended Redemptorist High School and graduated in 1965. After graduation, Mike enlisted in the United States Air Force and served honorably from 1966 to 1970, including two tours of duty in Vietnam. He remained proud of his military service throughout his life. Following his service, Mike worked for many years at Kaiser Aluminum in Baton Rouge. He was also a lifelong member of St. Gerard Majella Catholic Church, where he faithfully served through the church’s Food Pantry Ministry. Known as “Bull” to many, Mike never met a stranger. He had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome, valued, and loved. Kind, generous, and always willing to lend a hand, he lived his faith through service to others. Those who knew him best will remember his childlike spirit, infectious smile, quick sense of humor, and genuine joy in life’s simplest moments. More than anything, Mike loved his family. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose greatest happiness came from being present for the people he loved. He was immensely proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and never missed an opportunity to tell others about them. Whether attending a ballgame, a school event, a performance, helping with a project, throwing a football, or playing on the floor with his great-grandchildren, Mike was always there. Even at 79 years old, he was still showing up every day for his family, offering his time, strength, and unwavering support. Mike shared a special bond with his brothers, Sam, Willie, and Nufer and sister/in-law Cindy and treasured the lifelong friendship they shared. He was preceded in death by his mother, June Miller Maranto Perkins; his father, Vincent John “Bende” Maranto; and his stepfather, James Gayden Perkins. He is survived by his daughter, Misty Maranto Davis and husband Chris; his son, Michael Anthony Maranto II and wife Casey; his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his brothers, Sam, Willie, and Nufer; his sister-in-law, Cindy; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation which will be held at on Friday, June 12, 2026 at St. Gerard Majella Catholic Church, 5354 Plank Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70805 from 9am until Mass of Christian Burial at 11AM. Burial will follow at Louisiana National Cemetery, 303 W Mt Pleasant Zachary Rd, Zachary, LA 70791. Mike’s legacy is one of faith, service, family, and love. He spent his life showing up for others, asking for little in return, and leaving a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.