Michael John Fanelli

Michael John Fanelli of Elmsford, was born on July 7, 1936 in New York, New York. He went to heaven on August 2, 2021.

He was the youngest son of Rose and Frank Fanelli. Michael was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Camille and Madeline; brothers Vincent and Anthony.

Michael graduated from LaSalle Academy and attended St. John’s University.  He entered the U.S. Army and left with the rank of Staff Sgt.  Michael worked for General Foods, USPS, many construction jobs and was the Building Inspector in Elmsford for over 20 years.  He was the owner of Fanelli’s Bar now known as Pete’s Saloon.  He was the past president of the Elmsford Republic Club, a member of the Lion’s Club, Kiwanis Club, and the American Italian Club. He also volunteered for the Elmsford Little League. Michael was a longtime parishioner of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. He served as president of the Holy Name Society for many years. He was active in many church fundraising events. Michael was a Fourth Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus.

Michael married the love of his life Annette Desharnais on May 21st 1960. Together they had five children. He was the cherished father to Steven (Sharon), Mark (Rose), Paul (Patti), Lisa Ann (predeceased) and Michelle (Vern).  He was the loving Grandfather to Christopher, Daniel, Timothy, Michael, Nicholas, Alyssa, Matthew, Victoria, Justin, Hunter, Ryan, Emily and great-grandson Luca.

Michael spent his spare time reading, working around the house and volunteering at Our Lady of  Mt. Carmel Church. He experienced the greatest pleasure spending time with his family. Everyone who knew Michael would agree that he had a huge loving heart. His gentle kindness and compassionate sensitivity was felt by each and every person he connected with. The love, pride, and tenderness he had for his friends and family was immeasurable. Michael touched the lives of so many people. He was truly loved and will be deeply missed.

The Fanelli’s will receive friends and family from 4 pm to 8 pm on at Ballard-Durand Funeral Home Elmsford, New York and a mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Elmsford, New York on Friday at 10 am. Interment will follow at Gate of Heaven cemetery, Hawthorne, New York. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School 59 East Main Street in Elmsford, NY 10523 or Westchester Gigi’s Playhouse 720 Sawmill River Road Ardsley, NY 10502.