Michael F. Todd

Michael Francis Todd, 76, of Holmdel, NJ, passed away peacefully on April 20 after a long battle with frontotemporal dementia. A devoted husband of 54 years, loving father, brother, friend, adored Poppy to his 8 grandchildren, and beloved Uncle Mike to his many nieces and nephews.
Born on January 17, 1949, Mike was the second of six children to Josephine and Jack Todd. He was raised on the north shore of Staten Island, where his quick wit, love of family, and passion for classic cars and Harley Davidsons first took root. Above all, Mike loved his childhood sweetheart and wife, Barbara.
After graduating from high school, Mike proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving for three years during the Vietnam War. During his service, he sent dozens of heartfelt love letters-and beautiful silk kimonos-to Barbara, a testament to their enduring bond. It was in the Navy that Mike's natural aptitude for electronics was recognized, setting the foundation for his future career.
Following his service, Mike became an elevator mechanic, quickly earning a reputation as a leader in the field. In 1987, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by purchasing Slade Elevator and growing it into a respected, values-driven company. Mike was a titan and pioneer in the NYC-area elevator industry, known for his fairness, vision, and tireless work ethic.
He was a mentor, leader, and example to countless individuals whose careers he helped shape. Known for jumping into the trenches alongside his team, Mike's humility and deep technical knowledge inspired young mechanics who weren't used to such a hands-on, grounded boss. His constant search for knowledge and his generous, humble sharing of what he learned earned him the admiration of peers and employees alike.
Mike's leadership style was rooted in care-for people, for craft, and for community. He was known for putting his employees first and leading by example, building a company culture that lives on in the many lives and careers he touched.
That spirit of service started early. He and Barbara spent Saturdays volunteering at St. Joseph and St. Thomas School-Mike coaching basketball, Barbara teaching CCD-miles away from their home in St. George. His underlying sense of charity was evident in how he gave his time, wisdom, and presence so freely, and continues on in his children, who carry forward those same gifts.
Some of Mike's happiest memories were made in the Adirondacks, where he spent childhood summers on Sixth Lake near Inlet and Old Forge. He later shared that tradition with Barbara and their children-swimming, water skiing, hiking, and nightly trips for ice cream. More family memories were made in LBI with his children and grandchildren; horsing around with them at the beach, teaching them how to pick up a crab and not get pinched, burying them in the sand and transforming them into mermaids and turtles. Those memories are etched into the hearts of his family.
Mike had an extraordinary gift for making people laugh and could fix just about anything. He was endlessly patient, always ready to teach, and quick to comfort. His grandchildren, nieces, and nephews knew him as the one who would swing them through the air, mend a toy, whistle a tune, and offer a reassuring smile.
Married to the love of his life for over five decades, Mike and Barbara built a joyful life rooted in love, laughter, and deep connection. His presence lit up every room, and his memory lives on in the family, friends, and colleagues he inspired.
Mike Todd was truly the best of the best.
Visitation will be Wednesday, April 23 from 4-8 pm at John F. Pfleger Funeral Home 115 Tindall Rd., Middletown. A funeral Mass will be offered Thursday, April 24 at 10 am at Mary Mother of God RC Church 19 Cherry Tree Farm Rd., Middletown.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to
The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration by visiting https://give.classy.org/miketodd or by clicking the donate button at the bottom of this page.