Michael Thomas Rossi

NEW BERN | Michael Thomas Rossi died Sunday, December 28, 2014 after a battle with esophageal cancer.  Mike was the son of the late Major Robert J. Rossi and Louise M. Rossi.  Mike is survived by his siblings Robert John Rossi Jr., Mark William Rossi, Christine Rossi Littleton, Mathew Larney Rossi, Thomas Andrew Rossi, Elizabeth Louise Rossi and his best friend of many years, Joel P. Lynn.  Mike is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.
Mike is remembered for many things – notably his engaging personality, his sense of humor, his business acumen and his Christian faith.
In his youth, Mike worked mowing lawns around Trent Woods and New Bern and a love of gardening was born. As an adult, he worked for the late Harry and Isabel Vats at the Fashion Center in downtown New Bern. Eventually he became the owner of that business. He then worked for Nancy Hollows in her real estate business and later became partners with Joel Lynn in the design and landscape business in New Bern.
Mike was a very strong man and during his lifetime overcame many difficult obstacles. He will be greatly missed by family and friends alike.
We all wish to thank Dr. Chris Taylor, Dr. Karl Rusthoven, and especially Dr. Michael L. Davis and nurse Jeanette Weaver for their gracious and loving care.
Mike's funeral service will take place on Saturday January 3, 2015.  There will be a luncheon for all friends and family at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 206 Miller Blvd, Havelock, NC at noon, and visitation from one until two, followed by a joyful memorial service in the church sanctuary. Interment at Greenleaf Memorial Park in New Bern will follow the memorial service. 
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity Presbyterian Church, Havelock NC or the Kitty Askins Hospice House of Goldsboro NC.
Arrangements are by Cotten Funeral Home.  Online condolences may be made to the family at www.cottenfuneralhome.com.