Michael Anthony CHIANTELLA

Michael Anthony CHIANTELLA

Michael CHIANTELLA Obituary

Published by Buffalo News on Jun. 5, 2012.
CHIANTELLA - Michael Anthony October 16, 1976 - May 30, 2012. Of Venice, Florida was born in Oakland, California. At age 16 he began undergraduate work at St. John's College in Annapolis, Maryland. He received an MBA from State University of New York at Buffalo. He then attended the Law School at SUNY Buffalo. He also attended the University of Miami and completed an LLM in Estate Planning. After graduating from the University of Miami, Michael opened a law practice in Venice, Florida. Michael was a devoted husband, father, son, and brother. He studied and loved the classics, a renaissance man. He had a warm regard and respect for all people. He is survived by his wife, Karen Joy; children Dylan John-Noel and Morgan Lillian; parents Eileen and Noel Chiantella, Venice FL; sister Catherine Stern (Jordan), Arlington, VA ; grandmother Laura Mathias, Ponte Vedra, FL; many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins. His family will be receiving friends from 5:00 PM until service time, with a memorial service Tuesday, June 5, 2012 at 5:30 PM, all at FARLEY FUNERAL HOME, 265 Nokomis Avenue S., Venice, FL. Funeral services will be held in Maryland. Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Friday June 8, 2012 at PUMPHREY FUNERAL HOME, Rockville, MD. Services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, June 9, 2012 at St. Patricks Catholic Church, Rockville, MD followed by burial at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Silver Spring, MD. There is a celebration of Michael's life planned in Buffalo, NY for October, 2012, near his birthdate.


This obituary was originally published in the Buffalo News.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Michael CHIANTELLA's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

May 29, 2025

Dave posted to the memorial.

May 27, 2019

Someone posted to the memorial.

August 8, 2014

Ellwood (Eli) Wiggins posted to the memorial.

Dave

May 29, 2025

Wherever you are Michael I hope you are now at peace, I will never forget what you did for me, you were so supportive, kind, funny, Intelligent

May 27, 2019

We will always have fond memories of Michael. He was so polite whenever he would come to our house. Our son, David, had a close and sincere friendship with him, enjoying traveling and discussing many topics. He was indeed a kind person. Dave & Rita Pope

Ellwood (Eli) Wiggins

August 8, 2014

I have fond memories of Michael from St. John's, where we were freshmen together. He had a warm presence that was charming and welcoming. I also met Karen briefly when she and Michael were passing through Santa Fe in 2002 or 03, shortly after their wedding. The happiness they both exuded then still lives in memory. My thoughts are with Karen and her family and I wish them healing and joyful memories of Michael.

Colleen Austin Crino

May 13, 2014

To my Montessori school pal Mikey: my daughter, now 5, loves the Greek Myths book you and your mom gave me for my 5th birthday (when you were 3!)...it is now a family heirloom, and we think of you fondly each time we read it! Sending happy memories to your family and children from our childhood.

Sabahat Chaudhary

September 9, 2013

I remember Michael fondly from St. John's College. He entered early so was younger than us but his kindness and warmth made him seem much wiser. He put everyone who met him at ease and had a lovely spirit even in the chaos of young adulthood. My thoughts are with you and your family.

Aline Gram

September 10, 2012

Michael was one of the first people I met and talked with on my first day of college at St. John's. His warm spirit really helped put me at ease. May each member of your family know a peace and comfort that passes understanding during this time.

Neal VanDeRee

June 29, 2012

Karen, We pray that you and your family find peace at this time.
The VanDeRee Family

June 29, 2012

Karen, We pray that you and your family find peace at this time.
The VanDeRee Family
[email protected]

Rafael Juarez

June 27, 2012

What will always stick in my mind about Michael is his humor. He was always quick witted and charming. But more than that, he had a HUGE heart and was always so willing to give to others. He was so easy to love, because he loved others. I loved Michael, and I will always honor my memories of the man I knew.

To Eileen, Noel, Karen and the rest of the family, I grieve your loss with you. I am so sorry you have to go through this. I cannot change what is, but I hope my love comforts in some small way.

Love, Rafael Juarez

June 26, 2012

Dear Karen and sons,
I am so sorry for your loss. It is my hope that memories of happy times together will help you get through this very sad, difficult time. Know that I am thinking of you, the Burgess family and Michael's family. Be strong. Hugs from Lenny.

June 22, 2012

I attended law school with Michael. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

xray friends at the MACC--

June 18, 2012

Dear Eileen and Noel--We are so sorry for the loss of your son Michael. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. With fondness--Kati, Dee, Barb, Patty, Denise

Tamara DiVasto

June 18, 2012

I was also a law school classmate of Michael's and was shocked and saddened to learn of his passing. You will be in thoughts and prayers.

Chris watler

June 17, 2012

Chiantella Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. May the passage of time and the lord's healing touch bring comfort to all of his family, friends and peers.

Christine Watler - EdgeTech Document Shredding

June 17, 2012

Happy Father's Day.

June 16, 2012

Dear Eileen and Noel

Barbara and I are deeply saddened by your loss. For many years we watched your family grow and saw the love that was shared with your children. Our deepest sympathies and prayers are with you.

Larry and Barbara Papsidero

June 16, 2012

Michael was my law school classmate. I always enjoyed getting his Christmas cards letters and hearing about his family. When I heard about his passing, I cried. He will be missed.
Your family will be in my prayers during this time of sadness.

- Fran

The Wood Family

June 15, 2012

To The Chiantella Family,
May the peace which comes from the memories of love shared comfort you now and in the future.

Jim & Kate Consler

June 14, 2012

My husband and I met Michael last year when we went to him to write up our wills. We just moved here from upstate N.Y. and we were told to go to him from our park where we are now living.

We will miss him very much...he was a very down to earth person. We will pray for his family and hope they can get through this terrible ordeal. God loves you Michael.

June 14, 2012

Dear Eileen and Noel,

You are in our thoughts and prayers !!!!

Kathleen & Brian Maher, Sarasota, FL

Susan & Tim Shoptaugh

June 13, 2012

The world is a better place to have had Michael in it, and I am a better person for knowing and loving him. I will cherish my memories of him. May he feel the embrace of angels who have gone before him.
Aunt Eileen, Uncle Noel, Cate, Jordan, Karen, Dylan and Morgan - You are in our prayers and we're sending our love!

June 13, 2012

I met Michael and his family many years ago as their design consultant at WCI communities. Michael stood out as a person who was truly geniune in his respect for others. I remember meeting his mother and father and being so impressed with the closeness and love they all had for each other. I never forgot the Chiantella family, they had that affect on you. I send my deepest sympathy and love to you all. Joan Mula

June 13, 2012

Dear Chiantella family:
We had the priviledge of knowing Michael not only as our attorney but as someone we considered a friend. He was a true gentleman in all ways. His gentle spirit, compassion and his genuine willingness to help was something that amazed us from the first time we stepped into his office. May you take some comfort in knowing how loved and respected he was to many. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
George and Sonia Harland

June 13, 2012

June 12, 2012

Our most sincere and deepest sympathies go out to all of the Chiantella family at this very sad time of the loss of Michael. You will be in our thoughts and prayers hoping that you find comfort in all your many wonderful memories of him. He was truly a great guy! The Pope Family, Orchard Park, NY

ralph & janet verbanic

June 12, 2012

Our prayers go out to all Michaels family at this time. May he rest in peace. We will be reminded of him every summer as we make Md. crab soup and recall the joy on his face as he so informaly chatted with us, his clients about it. GODS love and faith to all, Ralph and Janet Verbanic

Christopher Smith

June 12, 2012

I met Michael a couple of years ago in a case, and he immediately impressed me as a fundamentally decent and honorable man. I came to befriend him and trusted him, so much so that I referred my own clients to him for tax advice. He will be missed by many of his colleagues, and fondly remembered.

The Chiantellas

June 10, 2012

For those who knew Michael...
Love is all that matters. Love is everything. It is the sharing of songs and silences, and the holding of memories our hearts can see. In nothing are we as rich as in our memories of Michael, for they are ours alone and tell our story. Love's music may be different to each of us, but oh, how beautiful the dance.

Angie Bonanno (Mary Jane's daughter)

June 8, 2012

Eileen and Noel, There are no words to express my condolences to your family...i am so sorry for the loss of your son i cant express it enough. may god give you all the strength you need at this time of need.

Natalie Culkowski

June 8, 2012

What sad news to hear of Michael's passing. We were friends in High School and he gave me a copy of The Catcher in the Rye as a gift once. I still have it and it will always be my favorite book. Thinking of all of his family during this difficult time.

Clinton Thornton

June 7, 2012

Michael will forever be remembered fondly by me. As a client, he had such passion and care as a trusted advisor. As a friend, he put me at ease and took on the weight of an extremely difficult time in my life. He will always be thought of in the highest possible regard within our family, and without a doubt terribly missed by his.

Barbara and Bill Kuffner

June 7, 2012

Our sympathy to all of you for the loss of your Michael. Prayers for your strength and healing.

angella mullins

June 7, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with all of your family.

Antonia Easener (friend of Karen)

June 7, 2012

Thinking of you all at this difficult time.

Sending lots of love from the UK, from me and a few of my friends who were with me when I heard the news.

I truly hope Michael has found the peace that he needed and is watching over you all

Emily June

June 6, 2012

Dear Chiantella Family,
I work down the street from his law office. Years ago I remember seeing him advising a patient in the hospital while I was visiting a patient of mine. I was deeply impressed with his people skills and his professionalism. I am very sorry to hear of his death. All of our office is thinking of your family today. Sincerely, Dr June Venice Family Practice

June 6, 2012

Eileen and Noel, Our hearts ache for you and your family; words simply can't express it. May God give you all strength and courage in the days ahead. With Sympathy and love, Sue and Bob Conklin (Orchard Park, NY)

Becky Althoff

June 6, 2012

May God wrap you in His arms and offer you strength at this time. May Michael bask in the blessing of angels and delight in the presence of God. Prayers go out to the family for comfort and peace. God be with you at this time.
(colleague and friend to Carolyn Chiantella)

Michelle and Dan West

June 6, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all of your family. God bless...

connie lamberti

June 6, 2012

my name is connie lamberti and l am sending condolences for myself and my aunt and cousin rosemarie merlino and pam hinderman. he helped us w/ a difficult case about 3 yrs ago. he was a very nice person and excellent lawyer. l am shocked by his early demise. l came across his obit. by accident. we were not aware that anything had happened. we are so sorry for his families loss. he was kind,gentle and to young to leave us already. he will be missed by all.GOD BLESS him and his family. so sorry. sincerely connielamberti,rosemarie merlino and pam hindeman.

Thinking of you Aunt Eileen and Uncle Noel

Mathias Family

June 6, 2012

Emily Park

June 6, 2012

I offer my heartfelt condolences to all of Michael's family and friends. You are in my thoughts.

Joe Minias

June 5, 2012

Michael and I had high school Latin class together for a number of years. He was one of a kind and someone that was a tremendous person all around. Truly unique. Likable beyond belief. If I close my eyes I can see him carrying around his backpack -- the one that could fit just about anything in it -- around the hallowed halls of OPHS. I am very sorry for your loss.

June 5, 2012

Karen, oh Karen, my heart goes out to you and the kids, darling!! :..( We are so sorry for your loss and will pray for you guys during this horrible time. oxo
-Marlaina Iannotti & Family (Venice, FL)

Joe and Judy Rusnak

June 5, 2012

Noel and Eileen,
Our hearts are breaking for you. We are praying for God's strength to get you through this tragedy.

June 5, 2012

To Michael's family - what a painful loss of such a gifted young man . Michael meant so much to our family . He will be remembered fondly and often as the light in our darkness. -Donna Craig ;Fayetteville Georgia

Ashley Clark - (Mary Jane's Daughter)

June 5, 2012

To the entire family: No words can express how sorry I am for your loss. Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Janet Knapp

June 5, 2012

Dear Eileen, Noel, Catherine, Jordan, Karen, Dylan, Morgan, and family: Michael was one of the most kind and caring individuals I have ever known. I am so sorry for your loss of a son, brother, husband, father, and for me, a friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Tracy Quinn Greco

June 5, 2012

Dear Chiantella Family,

I am so very sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. If there is ever anything I can do to help you through this difficult time, never hesitate to ask.

June 5, 2012

Eileen and Noel,
Our prayers with heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.
Mary Jane and Don Eppers
Orchard Park, NY

The Noweski Family

June 5, 2012

Our deepest sympathy to your entire family. Many prayers are being said for you to be surrounded and comforted with Gods Love, family and friends.

Michael and Jane Licata

June 5, 2012

Eileen and Noel,
We were deeply saddened to hear of the loss of your son Michael. We are keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.

Mark & Liz Wilkins

June 5, 2012

Michael was a true gentleman. A man whose wise words and kindness were able to inspire, encourage and bring comfort to others. A few years ago he gave me some advice which helped me to deal with a particularly difficult period of my life - wise words that I shall never forget. Rest in peace Michael, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Tom McNeill

June 4, 2012

I am so sorry to here this. Michael was a good man. Condolences to all the Chiantella family.

Randy & Ingrid Hoerauf

June 4, 2012

We share your grief in the loss of your son and brother Michael. Know that we both understand your pain and sorrow in losing a child.

Teresa and Steve Kimson

June 4, 2012

Michael will be greatly missed and our condolence goes out to the Chiantella family. As I write this message I can't help wondering if Michael realized how many people he touched on both a professional and personal level and his willingness to help anyone in need especially the Veterans. May God hold you in his arms and bless you and your family.

Frank & Lourdes Trombka

June 4, 2012

On behalf of my wife and I; we wish to express our heart felt condolences to Michael's family, especially his wife and children! Michael has always been one of the nicest, carrying and respectful men I've had the pleasure to have known. He was not only my attorney and confidant, but most of all he was my friend. It has been an honor to have known Michael. May God Bless and Keep Him Always!

Annmarie Naples

June 4, 2012

Dearest precious Noel,Eileen&Family,
Michael was a gatherer of hearts.His pronouncement"I want to be a Thespian when I grow up"gathered mine.My heart that loves all of you,shall thrill to his light& unmeasurable joy.
May you feel Gods gentle touch at this tender time.
In Light,peace&love,
Annmarie&Jimmy Naples

Stephanie Craig

June 4, 2012

My heart breaks for all of you. I am so saddened and so sorry for this loss.Michael helped my family at a time when we needed it immediately. He was there, and he gave my Dad, who was terminally ill peace of mind. Michael's kindness will always be remembered. My sisters and I will be forever grateful .

Denise Sobczynski

June 4, 2012

Dr.Chiantella and Family,

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your son. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

With deepest sympathy,

Judith Travis

June 4, 2012

I am deeply saddened to hear of Michael's death. He devoted his time, energy and expertise to helping my family with estate planning at a most difficult time in our lives. My thoughts are with his family and friends now and in the future.
Judith Craig Travis

marcia wilson

June 4, 2012

Eileen, Noel, Aunt Laura and family,

We are so very sorry for your loss.

Marcia (Mathias) and Bob Wilson

Peter & Debra Bosen

June 4, 2012

To the Chiantella Family,
We are shocked and saddened to learn of Michael's untimely passing. God must have truly needed one of the good guys up in Heaven, so he called upon the very BEST. Michael helped us through a horrible family event last December, and he said, "If you need me, call me...24/7..." We did need him, and he was always there, just as he promised. May God Bless you Michael, and thank-you for being there...We pray for your family.

Yvonne Juarez Gonzalez

June 4, 2012

Our prayers are with you all Chiantella family. We are so sorry for your loss. Love, the Gonzalez family

Heather J. Elliott Laureles, SJC SF '96

June 4, 2012

Dear Karen, Dylan, Morgan, Eileen, Noel, Catherine, & family,

Memories of Michael-- as a dear, sweet, funny friend, an intelligent, passionate scholar, and a kind, ethical, respectful, thoughtful person-- will be cherished by me and many others at St. John's College. Michael, you are missed.

With deepest sympathy,

Michael and Rosemary Litsky

June 4, 2012

To the Chiantella Family: As recent retirees to the area from Maryland, we felt so fortunate to find Michael to be our attorney. He was kind, compassionate, intelligent, and such a good listener....a real professional. We are so sorry to hear of his untimely passing. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Marilyn & Don Armenia

June 3, 2012

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are so sorry for the loss of your Dear Son. Please extend our condolences to his wife Karen, their children and your entire family.

June 3, 2012

dear Eileen, Noel, Karen ,Dylan and Morgan, We are all missing Michael as are you. He was such a nice person, full of life, plans, and smiles for all. My heart is broken because of your loss and all the sadness and grief that we are experiencing these last few days. God be with you, The Rammings

Marc Miles

June 3, 2012

Dear Karen, Noel & Eileen,

My deepest sympathies go out to you, as well as to the children. Michael was a friend, and I appreciated all he did for me, and tried to return the favor to him. This is a terrible tragedy, that he is missed by many, including me, and know that my wishes and prayers are with you

The Joyce family

June 3, 2012

Words are such an inadequate vehicle to provide solace, particularly where there is so little to be had.

We will forever remember Michael as the teenager and young man we came to know. An ever polite and thoughtful young man, whose gentle eyes did not belie the exceptional intelligence that lay beneath. We will miss you Michael, the world is not a better place for your passing.

Noel and Eileen, Karen, Dylan and Morgan, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Gary Goldman

June 3, 2012

I am sorry for your loos. I liked Michael alot. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

June 3, 2012

Dear Karen,Dylan and Morgan,
We are so sorry for your loss. Roger and I were clients of Michael. He will be missed. He was caring and special and so intelligent. We loved him like a son
Joan and Roger Black
Englewood, Florida

June 3, 2012

Dear Chiantella family,

Our family is so very sorry for your loss. We pray that you may all find comfort in the love and prayers that are sent from friends, family and others who love you.

Mike & Denise Duncan & family

June 3, 2012

We are sorry to of Michaels passing. He was a special son and brother. Our prayers are with you at this time

Sharon and Tom DeVanne

Carrie Silverstein

June 3, 2012

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Michael. My family and I were clients of his and he was such a compassionate and honest person. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.

The Llugany Family

June 3, 2012

We are so sorry for your loss.
Our thoughts and prayers go to you and your family.
May the confort and love of family and friends be with you at his time of grief.

June 3, 2012

Eileen and Noel, We were so devastated to hear of Michael's passing! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family! Linda (Gernold) and Alex Jeremenko

June 3, 2012

We are suprised at the passing of Michael our thoughts go out to his family what a great Man he was. Richard & Nancy Meer

June 3, 2012

Sorry for your loss. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Scott & Lynn Paul

Lisa Sanders

June 3, 2012

I was very sorry to hear of the passing of Michael. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family.

The Kitsos Family

June 3, 2012

We are do very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family.

David Burgess

June 3, 2012

I am truly devastated at the tragic news of Michael's passing. Though my time with you Michael was brief..it was profound, real and something which will stay with me forever. Though you have departed this mortal realm, I pray you have found immortality somewhere. My deepest heartfelt sympathy goes out to all of the Chiantella family and to my family also, Karen, Dylan and Morgan. Through happy memories and thoughts I will remember Michael and his spirit will live on. R.I.P xxx

Deanna Braden~

June 3, 2012

Karen,

You, Dylan, and Morgan are in my thoughts and prayers. Please let me know if there is anyway I can be of help to you.

June 3, 2012

Dear Karen, Dylan, Morgan,

I wish I knew each of you; I write as someone who had the fortune of crossing paths with your husband, your father.

I went to school with Michael at St. John's College. I have fond memories of chatting with Michael.

Each of you will be in my and my family's thoughts and prayers.

Colin (Ray)
SJC 1994

Michelle Accardi-Petersen

June 2, 2012

My heartbreaks for you and your family. We are so thankful we got to know Michael and want you to know Karen we are here for you.

Grace Basham

June 2, 2012

Dear Karen,

I am so sorry to hear of your husband's untimely passing. What a tragic loss for you and your children.

You will be in my prayers and thoughts.

In Sympathy,

Refund Cents Friend

Robbie Brannon

June 2, 2012

Thinking of you and keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Tonya Finton

June 2, 2012

I am so very sorry to hear of your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with the family today and always.

Lesley Williams

June 2, 2012

I'm feeling so helpless here in Oxford , England but please be supported by the prayers that are all around you
Lesley Williams (Karen's godmother)

Carolyn Chiantella

June 2, 2012

Michael brought enormous joy to my life!
I am so thankful for the time we shared on this earth. There are no words to say how much he will be missed.

Steve, Colleen & Blake Curry

June 2, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

John and Judy Solum

June 2, 2012

We are so sorry to hear about your son. You will be in our thoughts and prayers.

William and Mary Pat Broda

June 2, 2012

We are very sorry for your loss. Your family are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

The Simpsons

June 2, 2012

We share your grief.

The Marchioli's

June 2, 2012

Karen, our hearts break for you during this awful time. You're loved and our thoughts and prayers are with you.

June 2, 2012

Sorry for your loss. I know that you will miss him, but I am sure that you have many fond memories that will help you through this time.
Ann and Bruce Stafford

The Gregory Family

June 2, 2012

We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you at this very sad time.

Nadene Burgess

June 2, 2012

I will always have fond memories of you laughing as you chased me around your house with a live crab just before .. To my horror it went in a pot! Or .. From my first time in Buffalo when you would appear on the porch out of no where like a stealth bomber! Happy memories! And that is how I will remember you my friend. Godspeed wherever you are. Karen, Dylan and Morgan.. My heart goes out to you .
I am sending all my love across the big pond. Xxx

Showing 1 - 97 of 97 results

Make a Donation
in Michael CHIANTELLA's name

How to support Michael's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Michael CHIANTELLA's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored

Sign Michael CHIANTELLA's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

May 29, 2025

Dave posted to the memorial.

May 27, 2019

Someone posted to the memorial.

August 8, 2014

Ellwood (Eli) Wiggins posted to the memorial.