Obituary of Michael J. Aquino

Michael "Mike" Joseph Aquino (1955-2024) Michael "Mike" Joseph Aquino, 68, passed away Tuesday, April 23, 2024, while traveling with his family in Scotland. Mike is survived by his loving wife, Patricia (nee Brady); children Thomas Brady Aquino (Leta Steffen), Kathryn Elizabeth Aquino (John Hamaid), and Lauren Patricia Aquino; grandchildren Joseph, Isaac, Theresa, and James; sister, Elisa (Charles) Bjonnes; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. Born on May 1, 1955, in Brooklyn, New York, to Thomas and Marie Aquino, Mike was the eldest of two children, and part of a larger, vibrant extended family with countless aunts, uncles, and cousins. The Aquino family homestead at 58-10 11th Avenue in Brooklyn was the heart of many of his fondest memories. He would often reminisce on the wonderfully chaotic family gatherings. Mike was raised in Richmondtown and graduated from Susan Wagner High School. Mike went on to earn his degree in Political Science from SUNY Fredonia. More importantly, it was at Fredonia that he met and fell in love with his wife Patricia. Ever the charmer, he attempted to court Patricia by asking to borrow her notes. She refused to lend them but eventually relented in granting him a date, leading to a marriage of over 47 years. In 1979, Mike and his father founded Alpha/Omega Coverage Corp, an independent insurance agency, establishing a legacy of entrepreneurship and service that his daughters continue today. Mike instilled a strong work ethic in all his children, believing in a simple business philosophy of treating people with respect, picking up the phone and calling people back. Mike was known for his fairness and deep compassion often saying, 'but is that the right thing to do.' Many people would call Mike for his advice, and he freely gave his time and honest opinions. It was those honest opinions that earned him the respect of his community and grew the business to thrive. His guiding principle was the unofficial family motto, "Vade Loca et Vora Res" — loosely translated from Latin to "Go places and eat things." This philosophy saw him exploring the world, from backpacking through Europe right after high school and leading him from the pristine natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands to the red rocks of the Southwest to the historic, fog-laden streets of London. One time the family found themselves stuck in Rome, Italy, on a Sunday with banks closed and unable to exchange cash. His wife was trying to feed a family with what little Lira they had in a train station cafeteria when, much to the shock of his family, Mike produced an overflowing tray of food and announced, 'Eat up, they take American Express!' Mike's individuality shone brightly through his disregard of the judgment of others. On a family trip to Venice, he famously lay down in the middle of Piazza San Marco just to capture the perfect angle of its famed basilica, much to the amusement of onlookers and the mild embarrassment of his children. An accomplished photographer, Mike transitioned from analog to digital, capturing thousands of moments and landscapes. His retirement years were filled with woodworking, building furniture for loved ones, and continuing to embrace the latest technology, originating in early PCs to the latest 3D printing technology, which he enjoyed sharing with his grandchildren. Mike's adventurous spirit extended to the open seas; what began as sailing lessons from his wife, Patricia, blossomed into a passion for sailing and boating. Together, they cherished their summer home in Tuckerton, NJ. He loved taking his family and guests out on his boat, whether it be to jump off the back of the boat & swim in the bay, pull them on an inflatable tube, or to (attempt) to fish. His final days were spent traveling in England and Scotland with Patricia, their daughter Kathryn, and her family, relishing the scenic views, cherished family time, and, of course, excellent fish and chips. A celebration of Mike's life will be held on May 1st (2-5pm and 7-9pm), with arrangements entrusted to Matthew Funeral Home 2508 Victory Boulevard. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Mike's memory to UNOS or the American Diabetes Association. Mike will forever be remembered for his irrepressible spirit, adventurous soul, and the loving family he leaves behind.