Michael P. Onorato

Mike Onorato was appointed to the faculty of the History Department at California in 1965, and the following year I became his colleague. During the period up until 1989, I came to greatly respect Mike because he was clearly among those in our department who were exceedingly active as published scholars. When I became most impressed by his academic prowess was during the two years (1989-1991) in which he served as my successor as the director of the History Department's nationally acclaimed...

I had the pleasure of having Professor Onorato as my teacher in World History class at Canisius College in 1966. He was both the best and most unforgettable history teacher I ever had. His captivating, story-like lectures left me with indelible phrases such as "History is not what happened, history is what people think happened!" I clearly remember him at the podium holding out his right arm and saying "Socialism has its benefits´ and then holding out his left arm further saying "and...

I knew Mike from the time I joined the Bellingham Citizens Patrol years ago. He was always willing to share his wealth of information to the group. He will always be in my memory as a wonderful, intelligent & helpful gentleman. Rest in peace Mike.

Mike was an RSVP volunteer for the Bellingham Police Department. Professional behavior, kind, and appreciative of the help received from the Records personnel. He had a smile and an eye twinkle any time he came to my desk area. My condolences to Mike's family. S Bruton

I knew Mike through the Bellingham Police Department's volunteer program. Mike served for years and was a wealth of knowledge, especially for towing vehicles. He will be missed.