Michael Torsone

Michael J. Torsone

Poughkeepsie - MICHAEL J. TORSONE, 62, of Poughkeepsie died March 18, 2016. He was born in Poughkeepsie, the fifth child and only son of John and Antonia (Palmietto) Torsone.

He graduated from Our Lady Of Lourdes High School in Poughkeepsie, class of 1971.

He went on to earn a degree from the Simmons School of Embalming and Mortuary Science, class of 1973.

Upon graduating from Simmons, he became a Licensed Funeral Director-Manager with the family owned business, Michael Torsone Memorial Funeral Home for 36 years. During these years he pursued his love for music part time. In 2008 music became his full time job.

Michael was a member of the Crumbelbow Gun Club and former long time member of the Italian Center in Poughkeepsie. He still remained a supporter and could often be seen at the "club" performing his music, socializing with friends while eating a delicious Italian style lunch.

Michael was a man of passion. That passion was rooted in love. He loved all aspects of music, including the Hammond B3 organ. His extensive knowledge and understanding of the technical artistry of the Hammond organ lead to his becoming a renowned top-level technician and collector. He loved his dog, he loved his antique cars, and most of all he loved his family and friends.

Michael's boundless creativity and talent was evident from a very early age and continued until his death. As early as six years old he demonstrated extraordinary musical talents at home. During his high school years, he was part of bands such as: 3Square=Music, the Ken Baron Trio, Last Chance Banjo Band, Matt Jordon Band (where he made his debut as a vocalist) and The O'Leary Brothers Band.

In 1977 Michael joined musical talents with local resident Robert Germano, forming the highly successful group Just Two. After going their separate ways, they recently re-united and once again were delighting audiences with their special "sound."

In the mid-80's Michael decided to pursue Jazz music when he met professional artist and now friend, Lillie Howard who introduced Michael to many great musicians, including saxophonist Sal Giorgianni. Michael and Sal formed a highly successful band together, and in 1990-91 they were awarded Best Jazz Band by Hudson Valley Magazine. Lines of people stretched around the corner at J.D.'s Backyard in Poughkeepsie to hear them. That same year, Music Machine Magazine included Michael in its list of the top 5 artists in the Hudson Valley

In addition to his multiple albums, Michael was featured in many prestigious Jazz Festivals locally and elsewhere. On April 7, 2013 the Falcon in Marlboro hosted a memorable 60th Birthday Celebration in Michael's honor. Many musicians came from far and near to honor Michael. It was a night to remember. Prior to his passing, Michael continued to perform in and around the Hudson Valley.

Michael is survived by his life partner, Kim Lagano, daughter Nicole Lagano, sisters Theresa Torsone S.S.N.D, Michele Marianne Valentino, Anita Torsone Freer, Johnna Torsone McKeon, his aunt, Ruth Ann Torsone and many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews.

Thank you, Michael for your love and beautiful music. You are a love song that will play within in our hearts forever.

Per Michael's wishes, a private graveside ceremony will be conducted at St. Michael's Cemetery, Amsterdam New York, where he will be buried in a family plot. Also according to Michael's wishes, a Memorial will be held Tuesday, March 29 at the

Beth el Church of God in Christ, located at 91 Hooker Avenue in Poughkeepsie. The paying of respects will take place from 10 AM to 12 PM with the Memorial Service starting at 12 PM.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Michael Torsone Memorial Funeral Home, Inc., 218 Mill Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601. To send the family an online condolence or sympathy card, please visit their website at www.torsonememorial.com. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made on Michael's behalf to Dutchess County ASPCA at 636 Violet Ave, Hyde Park, NY 12538 845-452-7722, School Sisters of Notre Dame, 345 Belden Hill road, Wilton, Ct 06897-3898 and/or Sweet Relief Musicians Fund at www.sweetrelief.org.