Michael DeBetta

Went to a Concert in a Local Park and some of the music that was being played that night I played when I was in the Band back in the early '80s. Mr. Debetta was my Teacher at the time. What a Wonderful Man and Educator.

Sheryl and I join with many others mourning the loss of a terrific educator and human being.

He truly was a teacher whose influence on children stands as a tribute to his life's work.

Mr. Michael Debetta was my band teacher in Tottenville High School and my mentor. He taught me everything i ever needed to know to succeed in music and I did. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. Its like a piece of my history has been laid to rest. My condolences to the family of this great man.

Stephanie

TO THE DEBETTA FAMILY--
MR. DEBETTA WAS MY BAND TEACHER IN TOTTENVILLE BACK IN 1978. WHAT A GREAT MAN AND A GREAT TEACHER. HE WAS KIND AND PATIENT AND ONE OF THOSE PEOPLE WHO SHOULD BE A TEACHER. I HAVEN'T SEEN HIM SINCE THEN, BUT HE WAS ONE OF THOSE TEACHERS YOU JUST NEVER FORGET. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL. SORRY TO HEAR OF THE LOSS OF A GREAT MAN.

Mike Jr, Our condolences are so very much with you. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

God Bless.

-Rocco Alfonzetti & Family

Great man. Great teacher.

"Only the good die young" Billy Joel

His innovative, joyous spirit has enriched and touched so many of us

To The DeBetta Family,

Paradoxically, on the day Michael passed we wrote a get well card to post, when we arrived home that evening. On the way home we received the shattering call from his devoted and loving son, Michael Jr. Today I opened the envelope to see what we wrote and here are the parts that will last forever:

We think about you every day.
We are only a very small part of your vast group of friends who miss you and everything you are that is generous,...

Sunday

Dear Joanne:

I was deeply saddened to hear about Michael last night when I was on the computer with Bryan Ciervo. You probably don't remember me but I met you and Michael when I dated Ron Selvaggio in the early 70's. I am truly sorry for your loss. I pray that your family and friends, along with the wonderful memories you have shared with Michael through the years, will be able to sustain you during this difficult time. You and Michael seemed like the perfect...