Michael "Big Mike" Tammaro

Michael "Big Mike" Tammaro, a man whose personality was as grand as his nickname, has taken his final bow on August 16, 2025, at the age of 72. Born on December 4, 1952, in Chelsea, MA, Big Mike's zest for life never waned, even as he peacefully passed away in Ellenton, FL, due to liver disease. His legacy of laughter and kindness is a treasure cherished by all who knew him. Big Mike was the heartbeat of his family, a loving husband to Paula (Hilton) Tammaro, and a guiding star to his children – Michael Tammaro of Saugus, MA, Alicia Tammaro Hardy of Revere, MA, and Krystal Tammaro Truesdale, along with her husband Cameron Truesdale, of Stony Point, NY. His joy multiplied as a grandfather to Ashlie Tammaro, Julia Hardy, and Maximus Hardy, who will miss his larger-than-life hugs and legendary scratch ticket winnings. His siblings, Anthony Tammaro with his wife Patty, and Rosa Tammaro Follis with her husband Robbie Follis, both from MA, shared in the antics and adventures that only a brother like Big Mike could provide. Though his brother Louis Tammaro and sister-in-law Babs have predeceased him, the stories they created together remain timeless. A beloved uncle, he leaves behind a cavalcade of nieces and nephews who will undoubtedly carry on his knack for finding joy in the everyday. A proud graduate of Chelsea Senior High School, Class of '71, Big Mike's classmates voted him "Best Personality, " a title he wore like a badge of honor throughout his life. His career path was as diverse as his interests, from partnering in the family business at Rex Paper Box to overseeing operations as a supervisor at Williamson Motor Company, and finally, delighting his community as the jovial "Sergeant Tammaro" at the guard shack post-retirement. Big Mike's faith as a Christian was the compass that guided his generous spirit, but it was his love for the simple pleasures that truly defined him. Whether he was bird-watching from his beloved lanai, engaging in laughter-filled banter at the Palmetto Moose, or embarking on late-night treasure hunts with his brother Tony, Big Mike embraced life with a childlike wonder. As a man who believed every tale spun on AOL, his knack for stirring the pot at home was as endearing as it was maddening. But it was all in good fun, much like his cherished Halloween festivities, where his creativity and humor shone brightest. Big Mike was a character in every sense of the word – loving, generous, selfless, and the life of every party. In the words of the great comedian Bob Hope, "I grew up with six brothers. That's how I learned to dance - waiting for the bathroom." Big Mike would have roared with laughter at this, for he too understood the chaotic ballet of a large family and the humor that binds it together. As we say goodbye to Big Mike, we remember a man who lived life to the fullest, laughed in the face of adversity, and loved without reserve. His stories, his laughter, and his heart of gold will forever echo in the lives of those he touched. Big Mike, the Scratch Ticket King, the bird-watcher, the treasure hunter, the family man – here's to the countless memories and the joy you've left behind. Curtain down, spotlight off, but the applause for a life well-lived will never cease.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 26th Street Chapel, 5624 26th Street West, Bradenton, Florida, is in charge of arrangements. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael, please visit our floral store.