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Mike Cavatorta Obituary

Mike Cavatorta died unexpectedly at home on Nov. 28th. His is profoundly missed by his young daughter Zia and wife Meeghan Ziolkowski.

Mike was a deeply good person. He was devoted to his family and friends and worked tirelessly to support them. He loved and cared for nature, serving on the Belchertown Conservation Commission for a decade. Mike was such a hard worker but also an artist - able to fix or make almost anything - and he built many pieces of livable art as well as homes. He completed a degree in philosophy and it showed daily; he was curious and thought deeply about the people and world around him, always seeking deeper understanding. Mike loved adventure, especially with his family, and spent months kayaking, living in the wilderness, and researching whales.

Nothing can replace such a special homeschooling dad; the family requests donations be made for his daughter's education and support. (Checks to the "Zia Cavatorta Fund" may be sent to 44 Grela Terrace, Belchertown, MA 01007 or directly deposited at Florence Bank.)

There will be a zoom memorial on Sunday, January 24th. To attend, email his wife at [email protected] for the link.

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

Published by Daily Hampshire Gazette on Jan. 21, 2021.

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2 Entries

Roy Schneider

September 6, 2023

I'd been searching for Michael online since the creation of social media, and I am so sad to have stumbled upon his obituary. He was such a bright light in my youth, I always wanted to reconnect and see what he'd been doing with his life. I am glad to see he apparently continued to grow more and more in the positive, thoughtful and creative artist he was back in the '80s.

Much love, Mike. Condolences to all who loved you.

Roberta Pastorello

January 22, 2021

Dear Meeghan and Zia, I think my heart broke as I just read of Mike’s passing. I called Richard immediately on his way to work. He is so very sorry too. Please always remember just how much Mike loved you both. He was truly a wonderful, kind man. It was our privilege to have known him. With our sincerest condolences. Roberta and Richard Pastorello/Fitchburg

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