Obituary of Michael Critelli

Michael Critelli unexpectedly passed away on August 24th, 2024, at the age of 70. He was a wonderful and caring person to all who knew him, but most importantly the best father and husband. Michael was born on March 6th, 1954 in Brooklyn, NY. He grew up with his twin brother, John, and sister Lorraine. Michael also grew up with his three cousins that were as close as siblings – Bobby Guarnaccia, Joanie Pace, and Donna Luongo. He later met and married Rhonda Fields, his first and only true love on April 13th, 1975. They were blessed with two children, Christopher and Samantha. In 1992, Michael and his family moved to Staten Island. Michael had a strong bond with both of his parents, Ralph & Ida Critelli, who lived with the family in their new home and watched their grandchildren grow up. His sister-in-law, Jill Campbell, was also a frequent visitor and close friend during these wonderful years filled with family parties and big holiday celebrations with the entire family. Michael was a bricklayer and completed many jobs on sites around NYC and helping family with home projects before being forced to retire early after an injury. He was a man around town in SI, often frequenting his favorite Italian specialty stores like Pastosa or stopping in to cheers with friends at Lees Tavern. Weekends were for Sauce and watching the NY Giants with family and friends. He loved watching sports whether it was his son Chris playing baseball or sitting downstairs yelling at the Mets game with Samantha. Michael's mother died in 2011 and his father died in 2012. Michael was also predeceased by his wife, Rhonda, in October 2020. His family is comforted to know that they are now together in heaven for eternity. He is survived by his loving children, Christopher and Samantha Critelli, his siblings, cousins, nieces/nephews, and many dear friends. Michael deeply loved his friends and family and they loved him. He will be missed tremendously. He will be remembered for his generosity, his food critiques, his humor, and his love and dedication for his family. We will always carry the memories of him in our hearts. A wake will be held on Wednesday 8/28 from 4:00 – 8:00 at Matthew Funeral Home, 2508 Victory Blvd., Staten Island. A funeral mass will be held on Thursday 8/29 at 9:30am at St. Theresa's Church, 1634 Victory Blvd. Staten Island. Burial will be directly after mass at Green-Wood Cemetery, 500 25th St. Brooklyn, NY.