Michael Anthony Verdi, of Port St. Lucie, passed away on June 11, 2019, surrounded by his family. Formerly of Brooklyn, New York. He is survived by his Beloved Wife, Phyllis Verdi and their children and spouses, Robin & Carmelo Colletti, Michael & Kompel Verdi, John & Ayana Verdi and Danielle & Louis Mancuso. Along with 9 grandchildren, Carmine & Lauren Colletti, Michael III & Christian Verdi, Giovanni & Annabella Verdi, and Louis III, Nicholas & Dominic Mancuso. Sister, Angela Thorpe and Best Friend and Brother to, Jose Gonzalez “Gonzo”.
He was born to Sal and Connie Verdi, on May 25th, 1947. He and his sister, Angela have fond memories of their childhood in Brooklyn. Michael would often tell stories of his childhood antics, highlighted by trips to Coney Island for a Nathans hot dog and a ride on the Cyclone. He was the best “big brother” to Angela and will always be “The Wind Beneath Her Wings”.
A Marine who served in Vietnam from 1966-1968. A disabled veteran wounded three times and sent back to defend his country. He is a three-time recipient of the military’s, Purple Heart. Michael, a true patriot, was proud to serve his country and could often be heard saying, “Once a Marine, Always A Marine”. He never left home without proudly wearing a Marine Corps. hat.
He joined the NYPD (New York City Police Dept.) in 1974, where he rose through the ranks by patrolling the mean streets of Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens and Manhattan. He was a Mario Biaggi Award recipient and received an NYPD Combat Cross for his bravery. Nicknamed by his friends, “the warrior”. He retired from the force in 1995 as a “Sergeant Commander” and relocated to Port St Lucie.
Michael received a bachelor’s degree from Saint Joseph’s College in Brooklyn and a master’s degree from New York University where he graduated, “Summa Cum Laude”.
Michael an avid golfer, had a love for the game. He made great friends on the golf courses he played and at the clubs he joined. He loved to tell stories and he was the life of every party he attended. You might find him cruising down the Boulevard in his Corvette with his love, Phyllis beside him or on his motorcycle with her behind him. Their love for one another was visible to all.
Michael was a family man. He often boasted about the achievements of his children and grandchildren. He never missed a chance to spend time with them. He planned yearly family vacations and loved family dinners where he could laugh and joke with the children.
Michael had a heart of gold and embodied the true meaning of a “gentleman”. He gave often to anyone who was in need. Whether it was a fellow police officer in need of advice, a neighbor who needed an extra hand or a charitable organization that was near to his heart. He was generous, humble and always kind and compassionate to all.
Michael will be missed beyond words. He gave so much to so many and we will all carry a piece of him with us in our hearts forever.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am on June 14, 2019 at Port St. Lucie Catholic Church,425 SW Irving St, Port St. Lucie, FL 34983. Friends may visit from 2:00-6:00 pm on June 14th at Aycock Funeral Home, 6026 N US Hwy 1, Fort Pierce. Interment to follow on Saturday June 15, 2019 at 9:30 am graveside at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, 6026 N. US Highway 1, Fort Pierce, FL 34946.
In lieu of flowers the family kindly requests donation be made in the name of, Michael A. Verdi Sr. to any of the following: www.PurpleHeartFoundation.org, www.ToysforTots.org, or www.WoundedWarriorProject.org
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