Michael Giardina

Michael Giardina, a pioneering retail merchant and marketer, passed away at the age of 87. Born September 13, 1938, in Pozzallo, Sicily, Italy, Michael’s early childhood was marked by history itself—he personally witnessed the Allied invasion of Sicily as a small boy. His journey would later take him across the ocean to the United States, where he built a remarkable career in retail and merchandising.

Michael began his professional path as an assistant buyer in dept. stores of New York & Brooklyn, and rose steadily through the ranks, ultimately serving as Vice President of Merchandising in Florida at several major department stores. His career spanned respected names such as Abraham & Straus, Martin’s, Richard’s, and J.Byron's in Miami, Florida. Though he retired from retail in 1985, Michael’s entrepreneurial spirit was unstoppable. He soon launched new ventures as a wholesaler and vendor to various retail chains nationwide, eventually dedicating himself fully to Michael Giordano Intl, Inc.—a Private Label Cosmetics company he co-founded that continues to thrive 38 years later.

Known as a tough but fair leader, Michael was deeply supportive of those around him. He had an uncanny instinct for merchandising, able to predict which products would succeed and which would falter. Beyond retail, he was passionate about people, always seeking the good in others, and leaving an indelible mark on colleagues, partners, and friends alike.

Michael was predeceased by his beloved wife, Idalia Giardina. He is survived by his son, Vito; his sister Carmella ( Camille); Vito’s wife Michelle and their daughter Gabriella; Carmella’s daughter Dahlia; his Granddaughter Ashlie,his Nephew Graziano and his wife Ida & their sons; Diego & Andrea and his trusted business partners, Debra Beilman and Beatriz Moreno, as well as the rest of his extended MGI family, and last but not least, his best friend; Mr. Harry Ivens. His legacy lives on not only through his family but also through the countless lives he touched in the retail industry.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to Alzheimer’s Research in Michael’s honor.