Michael Volpe Jr.

Mike, as he was known to his family and friends, died peacefully at dawn on April 17th at the age of 93. He was a scholar, a servant, an educator, a friend, and dedicated fully to his family.

Michael Volpe Jr., born May 24, 1931, created a path for himself that was not always linear. The son of Sicilian immigrants — the youngest of four — he studied at St. Bernard’s Seminary and was ordained in 1957. He worked in the Diocese of Rochester for 13 years and served in the Navy Reserves as a Chaplain stationed in Iwakuni, Japan, and elsewhere, for five years.

Mike left the clergy in 1970 and married the love of his life, Margie, in 1970 and began a career as a teacher in the Rochester City School District, where he taught special education for 25 years, and provided help to struggling students after hours.

Mike was dedicated to learning — theology, philosophy, politics, history and of course, cooking. He was a Yankees fanatic, watching every game, following players and tracking statistics.

Michael is predeceased by his daughter Ellen, brother Joseph, and sisters Margaret and Eleanor. He is survived by his wife of almost 55 years, Margaret Mary; children, Michael (Jennifer Robertson), Martha Morgan (Michael Morgan), Paul (Dabney Hegg) and son-in-law John McIntyre (Lorinda Parks), 11 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Arrangements will be scheduled at the convenience of the family.