Michael A Orapello Jr.

Michael Orapello Jr., of Amsterdam, 85, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 29 at his home with his loving wife by his side.

Michael was born in Amsterdam, NY, the son of the late Antoinette and Michael Orapello Sr.

A 1958 graduate of Wilbur H. Lynch Senior High School, Michael was employed at General Electric for 35 years serving as shop steward for IUE local 31 AFL-CIO for most of those years and actively involved in union activity. Michael founded, incorporated and served as president of the IUE local 301 Sportsman's Club until his retirement from General Electric in 1995.

Involved in community activity, Michael was a certified NYS instructor in hunting safety and served as scoutmaster for Sir William Johnson Council Boy Scouts of America for many years. Michael was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Amsterdam and was an active member of the Knights of Columbus #209.

In 1998 Michael married Jennie Sgambati Orapello and together they travelled the world making life-long friends along the way. An avid fisherman, hunter and outdoorsman, Mike fished Piranha in the Amazon, stalked lions and elephants in Africa, and enjoyed hiking in the Alps. Hunting moose in Newfoundland was a favorite annual event.

Michael was predeceased by his son, Michael Orapello ll, and brother Vincent Orapello. He is survived by a daughter and two grandchildren.

Calling hours will be held 4:00-7:00 pm Monday, April 6, 2026 at De Stefano Funeral Home, 1414 State Highway Rt 5-S, Amsterdam. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held10:00 am on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at St. Mary's' Church, 156 E. Main Street, Amsterdam, NY. Interment will be in St. Michael's Cemetery, Amsterdam, NY.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. www.stjude.org.