Michael "Mike" Velotta

MICHAEL “MIKE” VELOTTA age 56, passed away on March 14, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer. His strength, positive attitude, and unwavering faith carried him through his illness in the same way he lived his life. Born in Baranello, Italy, Mike immigrated to the United States in 1976, bringing with him the values of hard work, devotion to family, and sense of community that would define his life. He proudly became a citizen of the United States, embracing the opportunities of his adopted country while continuing to honor his Italian heritage. In recent years, he was especially grateful to have returned to Italy multiple times, where he reconnected with his maternal family. Those visits brought him immense joy and a deep sense of peace. Mike was a 1988 graduate of Mayfield High School and completed his studies at Lincoln Technical Institute in Indianapolis. As an ASE Certified Technician, he built a respected legacy of trust and service. For 30 years, Mike was the proud owner of Velotta Auto Service in Kirtland, where he became known not just for his mechanical skill, but for his honesty and willingness to help anyone in need. For Mike, customers were never just customers — they were friends and neighbors. As a devoted parishioner of The Church of Saint Clare and a proud member of the Baranello Lodge, Mike remained deeply connected to both his faith and his heritage. Above all, Mike was a family man. He is survived by his beloved wife of 27 years, Cynthia Velotta (nee Rigard); his cherished son, Nathan Velotta; his stepmother, Sally Velotta; his mother-in-law, Virginia Rigard; his brothers-in-law Richard Rigard (Alicia), Duane Rigard (Michelle), and Dan Rigard; his sister-in-law Michele McBride (Bill, deceased); and numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins across the United States, Italy, and Germany who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts. Michelino was loved by many. He was preceded in death by his father, Pasquale Velotta; his mother, Maria Corona; his father-in-law, Richard Rigard; and his beloved grandparents, Angela Fuschino and Berardino Corona, and Cristina DeNigris and Michele Velotta. Mike found joy in life’s simple pleasures — fishing in the Chagrin River, watching family feud, eating his aunt’s homemade cavatelli, admiring classic cars, and most of all, spending time with his family. He was happiest when surrounded by those he loved and those who dearly loved him. The family will receive friends at the DiCICCO & SONS FUNERAL HOME, 5975 MAYFIELD RD. MAYFIELD HTS. OH 44124, WEDNESDAY from 3:00-7:00 PM. Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 AM Thursday March 19 at St. Clare Church, 5659 Mayfield Rd. Lyndhurst, OH 44124. (Please Meet at Church) Entombment Knollwood Cemetery. Online condolences www.diciccoandsonsfh.com