Michael Andrew "Mike" Datillo

1948 - 2023

Michael "Mike" Andrew Datillo of The Villages, FL passed away at his home on June 21, 2023, at the age of 75, after a long battle with cancer. Mike was born in St. Louis, MO to the late Andrew and Zoe Datillo (Frazier) in April 1948. Mike is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 30 years, Nancy (Fink), sons Andrew (Kelly Bannister) and Nicholas (Chloe Marth), along with beloved grandson Charles "Charlie" Datillo. He was a loving brother to Janice, Mark, Marilyn Jo and Kevin (Teri Nolan). Mike was also loved by his mother in-law Joan Fink, sister in-law Diann Eilering and brother in-law John Fink (Michele Woodside). Mike's many nieces and nephews thought the world of him. Mike was predeceased by his parents, brother Charles, nephew Matthew, sister in-law Peggie (Mullenschlader), father in-law Calvin Fink and sister in-law Donna Fink.

Mike attended Holy Name Elementary School, De Andreas High School and upon returning from military service he attended Washington University. Mike made long-lasting friendships during his academic years. Mike enjoyed sharing activities with family and friends like golf, softball, fishing and hunting. He has enjoyed supporting the STL Cardinals since childhood and continued supporting the team from The Villages during retirement.

Mike was drafted by the US Army in January 1967 and served until August 1968. He was in the 1st Squadron, 9th Calvary, 1st of the 1st Air Calvary Division and deployed to Vietnam and served as a helicopter gunner during key military operations including the TET Offense. For his service he received numerous metals (including the Vietnam Bronze Star and the Distinguished Flying Cross), awards and recognition for his bravery in combat. Mike was a member of the American Legion for Vietnam Veterans for over 45 years.

Mike's career was primarily focused on supporting the utility industry. He started working for Union Electric Company/Ameren as a surveyor and later transferred to the Transmission & Distribution Drafting Group. Along the way, Mike became interested in the operations of the union (IBEW Local Union 1455) and wanted to further his knowledge by holding various positions (Steward, Chief Steward, Treasurer and President) over his 12 years of service.

In 1983, Mike was elected to the position of Business Manager/Financial Secretary for International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 1455 which operates in the states of MO, IL and IA. He held various leadership roles and co-chaired with other business agents to support negotiating committees. Mike was a critical member of the 11th District and was appointed as a delegate to represent Local Union 1455 at many Utility Conferences. Mike fostered many life-long friendships.

Mike's greatest pride and joy was the relationship he had with his sons and new grandson Charlie. He cherished the times he shared with the boys growing up and through their adulthood. Whether it was on the golf course or across the dinner table, the biggest smiles and laughs were shared with his boys. He felt such joy being able to spend time with Charlie through FaceTime and special family visits.

A private memorial service will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO. Friends and family are invited to attend a "Celebration of Life" for Mike on July 22, 2023, at IBEW Local 1 Union Hall located at 5850 Elizabeth Ave, St. Louis MO 63110 from 3-6pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

https://raise.stjude.org/fundraiser/4783397