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Michael Porto Obituary
Michael Dal Porto
It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Michael Joseph Dal Porto passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 24, 2023. Michael was born in Arcata, CA to Lena and Nelo Dal Porto in the old Trinity Hospital. He played football for Arcata High School. He started working at the family store, Hutchins Grocery at the age of 13. He managed 4th Street Market when his father purchased it. He and his wife Joan opened Dal Porto's Deli in 1979. Michael was a huge 49er's fan and attended many games as a season ticket holder. He loved to watch the Giants as well. He was on a bowling team at Arcata Bowl for 20 years. He coached Pop Warner football when his sons played. He hosted many fun weekends for family and friends at his cabin in Salyer. He was a member of the Elks Lodge and was a past treasurer for the ICF.
Family was everything to Michael. He always had time to listen and offer advice. He always looked after his own and was generous . He enjoyed good conversation and a good argument. If he know you; he knew you well.
Michael was preceded in death by his grandson Michael and his great grandson Jerimiah. He is survived by his wife Joan, his sister Diana and his six children: Kim (Marilyn) Miller, Dan (Terri) Dal Porto, Jodi Stanley, Phil (Robyn) Dal Porto, Jamie (Mark) Hammer and Ken (Angie) Dal Porto along with 13 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the wonderful staff at both Granada Wellness Center and Timber Ridge Care Home.
The funeral will be Saturday, November 11th at 11:00 am at St. Mary's Catholic Church 1690 Jones Road, Arcata with a reception immediately following at Leavey Hall also at St. Mary's Church.
If you had the blessing of knowing Mike please come to the service or reception and share your stories and celebrate his life with his family
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Porto
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6 Entries
David Ford
January 10, 2024
As a grade schooler living a block from Hutchins grocery my mother would often send me to purchase something she needed. The memories of the family and their help are still cherished ones . So sad to hear of Michael's passing.
Bill Quinn
November 24, 2023
I was a customer at both stores. He served the neighbourhood for many years and will be missed. Alas, we are all getting older
and the world is passing us by. But our work can influence people and events long after our passing. His life will have a positive influence for years. Still, we will miss him. By the way, I lived in the two-story that was on the 4th Street Market site. We moved in '64. just before the market was constructed.
Lynette Hampton
November 19, 2023
I am so sorry Joan. I wish that I could give you a big hug. I am working now and will not be able to come to the service. Call me if you need to talk.
Marilee (Starkey Hadley) Taylor
November 4, 2023
The Dal Porto family is a big part of Arcata's family community history and Michael carried on his parents' work ethic and spirit of volunteerism so well. He and Joan were tireless in operating the 4th Street Deli and in giving to family and community. Our families shared the love of summer cabins in Salyer and gardening. Growing up in North Arcata, my mother sent us often for items from Hutchins Grocery, owned and operated then by Nelo and Lena Dal Porto. We all attended Arcata High with Mike and sister Diana, and our children were there together too. Our sincere condolences to Joan and all the Dal Porto family. Godspeed to Michael.
Lisa Donati
November 3, 2023
I have so many wonderful memories of Michael. The Dal Porto´s were a significant part of my youth. Babysitting the kids, doing inventory at the store, Thanksgiving dinners. Many good times full of laughter. My heart goes out to Joan and the rest of the family.
With love,
Lisa Renfro Donati
Carl Del Grande
November 3, 2023
I was so sorry to hear of Mike's passing. I always enjoyed sharing our sports stories and "Monday Morning Quarterbacking" about the Lumberjacks, The H-DN league, and 49ers. May he rest in peace.
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