Michael F. Norelli, Sr.

Michael F. Norelli, Sr. passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on October 23, 2023, at the age of ninety-three. Beloved husband to Barbara (nee Thompson) of 64 years. Loving Dad to Donna Smeck (Joseph), Michael Jr. (Marsha) and Barbara Duffy (Brian). Dear Pop to Brian (Amanda), Rachel Leao (Tino), Michael III (Patience), Joseph (Sara), Sean, Caroline (Aren), Andrew, Stephen (Ashley), Matthew and Katherine. Great Pop to Rhemi and Jean. Loving son to the late Luigi and Assunta (DiNardo). “Baby Brother Michael” to the late Claire McDermott (Jack), Carmella Petriccione (Michael), Lee Convery (Gerald), Michael, Theresa Gonzalez (John), Louis (Louise), Mary and Rita Breslin (John). Mike is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, godchildren and cousins.

Mike was born the youngest of nine children to Luigi and Assunta Norelli on April 11, 1930. Growing up, Mike worked in his father’s tire shop on the ground floor of the family home at Park Avenue and Clearfield Street. He had a wonderful childhood surrounded by his siblings who raised their children on the same block. Mike graduated from Northeast Public High School in 1947. During the Korean War, he proudly served two years in the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper. On April 19, 1956, at the Boulevard Dance Hall, Mike met the love of his life, Barbara. They were married on May 16, 1959 at Incarnation Church.

Mike worked at a machine shop for a short while before receiving his apprenticeship in the graphic arts. He worked for Beck Engraving for over 40 years retiring in 1992. After retirement, he worked part time at a florist shop and lovingly cared for his grandchildren. Mike was a hardworking, selfless family man.

Mike was a faithful servant of God. He was a continually active parishioner of St. Katherine of Siena. He was a member of Lay Council and served as President for one term. He was recognized for his efforts on the 75th parish anniversary book and always extended a willing hand to work on numerous committees, events, and fundraisers. But Mike’s favorite role was selling advertisements for the parish magazine, The Siena, for 25 years. He enjoyed meeting local business owners and encouraged everyone he knew to patronize those businesses. Mike was a long-standing member of the Jim Junod Lodge, a philanthropic men’s group aiding those in need. His most rewarding role at the Lodge was “investigator” meeting families and arranging assistance. 

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Monday, November 6, 2023, at St. Katherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church, 9700 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19114 from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM followed by his Funeral Mass at 12:00 PM. Interment - Washington Crossings National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mike’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter, 399 Market Street, Suite 250, Philadelphia, PA 19106 or The Jim Junod Lodge (c/o Jack Junod, Jr., 3815 Dorchester Road, Philadelphia, PA 19154) are greatly appreciated.