Michael L. Asiello Jr.

Michael L. Asiello Jr., 80, of Corning, passed away on March 4, 2026, at Elcor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Michael was born on July 30, 1945, in Newport to Michael and Lorraine (Prince) Asiello Sr. He married Vivian Knickerbocker on July 6, 1968, at St. Mary's Church. Vivian, the love of his life, predeceased him on March 6, 2025.

Michael graduated from Padua Prepatory in Watkins Glen in 1963. He later graduated from California University of Pennsylvania.

He worked as a Special Education teacher for the Northern Tioga School District, retiring in 2007 after 30 years of service. Throughout his career, Michael was known for his patience, compassion, and dedication to the students whose lives he touched.

Michael was an avid hunter and fisherman who also loved golfing. He was passionate about cooking and especially enjoyed spending time in the kitchen with his grandchildren and cousins, sharing meals, stories, and laughter. Family meant everything to him, from his young nieces and nephews to the friends of his children, who he treated as family as well. He was incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren and celebrated each of their accomplishments with great joy.

He will be remembered as a devoted Catholic and was active in the Scouting community, including the Boy Scouts of America. Michael was a kind and outgoing man who truly never met a stranger; everyone he met quickly became a friend. He had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued, and he always tried to find the good in everyone. He loved singing and square dancing with friends, and his warmth, humor, and generous spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Michael is survived by his three children: Thomas Asiello of Corning; Christopher Asiello (Tracey McLaughlin) of Corning; and Michelle (Erik) Varga of Midlothian, TX. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Douglas Asiello, Elizabeth Varga, Ella Varga, Vincenzo Asiello, and Lachlan Asiello; Tracey's children, Colin and Abbey McLaughlin of Corning; his sister Carol (John) "Lynna" McCoy of North Carolina; his brother-in-law Carl Knickerbocker of Big Flats; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Michael and Lorraine Asiello; his brother, Albert Asiello Sr.; his mother- and father-in-law, Ivan and Ruth Knickerbocker; his brothers-in-law, David and Gary Knickerbocker; and his sister-in-law, Linda Knickerbocker.

Family and friends are invited to call at Carpenter's Funeral Home, 14 E. Pulteney Street, Corning, NY on Monday, March 9, 2026 from 5:00pm-7:00pm. A calling hour will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday from 9:00am-10:00am with a prayer service immediately following with Deacon Ray Defendorf officiating. Burial will take place in Rural Home Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made in Michael's honor to the Boy Scouts of America or the American Cancer Society.