Michael George Altieri

Michael was a friend of mine. One of my favorite memories of him was during the short time I knew him at the Summer Transition Program (STP) the summer before my freshman year at RIT. We had a field trip to Seabreeze near the end of the program. It was absolutely miserable - raining, cold, and windy. Michael and I still went on 3/4ths of the rides together. Because it was a water park, I wasn't able to keep my cochlear implants on, and so when Michael and I were there, I wasn't able to hear anything at all. Despite this, Michael made the effort to practice sign together with me and try to communicate with each other throughout the day. We were freezing our butts off! He almost lost his red shades that day, and the bucket hat he had on (and the rest of BOTH of our clothes) were all soaked. It was a blast. We still had so much fun together going on those rides.

I would give anything to do that again with you, Michael. You said that if I ever came down to NYC, you'd show me around the city. You were so excited to be at RIT. You even said that for Halloween you'd go as the RIT mascot (a tiger). I think of you every time I walk by Ellingson Hall - not because of your end, but because of the time we spent together. We all miss you so much. You are so loved by your friends.

As a counselor new to Westfield as of 6 months, Mikey´s story touches my heart and the love he shared for so many and his love for art and music. It is clear he was surrounded by so many family members and friends who loved him and will always savor the memories. Sending Mom a million hugs and my sincere condolences . There will never be closure and no one will ever understand your pain but Mikey will remain with you in spirit and in your heart until one day you are reunited. His story just inspires me to give more and be better in all I do and am as a counselor and human being.
May his memory forever be a blessing and if you need anything for yourself or your family - please reach out anytime to me at Gentle Insight 734-330-8203 at no charge. No one can ever take your memories away and he knew how much you loved him . Please treat yourself very gently now as Mikey would want you to and hopes you feel his arms around you.

Sam and family I send my deepest condolences and prayers to you .
Loreen

Samantha and Frank - we are heartbroken to hear this very sad news. Our daughter Sophia had the pleasure of knowing Michael at WHS - enjoying his beautiful energy day to day his senior year. I had the pleasure of watching Michael walk to school each day as I drove the kids to school- I loved his whimsical style and always thought to myself - that kids got a unique sense of fashion. But my favorite memory was watching him deliver a gift to one of the crossing guards near the end of school year! I was in the right place at the right time to watch this interaction- he crossed gave him a gift bag and then a huge hug!! If it wasn´t for his amazing style- standing forth I might have missed the whole thing. It still makes me smile. It´s this joy I will remember. Love and many hugs.
Julie and Frank Paone

Michael, you were very outgoing and very brave - this is what I really love about you , I miss and love you so much Mike

My Dear Sweet Georgio,
Thank you for Blessing me with your Love and Smile.
You are our Angel now...Peace be with you...
My Love always Grammy Amy