Michael D. “Zippy” Saporito

Greece:  Michael “Zippy” Saporito, a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, and community hero was diagnosed with ALS in September 2023. He passed away peacefully on November 12, 2024 with his loved ones surrounding him.

Michael first noticed signs of ALS three years before his diagnosis, when he began experiencing weakness, stumbling, and difficulty with tasks that were once easy. Despite these challenges, he continued to serve his community with the same dedication and spirit that he always had.

Michael spent over three decades serving our community, dedicating himself to the safety and well-being of others. Since 1991, he has volunteered with Ridge Culver FD, Chili FD, Gates FD, and the Irondequoit Volunteer Ambulance and worked part-time with North Greece FD. He was the owner of Rocz Lighting, a musician, and a lighting engineer. Michael touched many lives with his skills and generosity. He was also dedicated to keeping our city’s buses running smoothly for the past 15 years with RTS.

Michael wanted to thank the following people for all they have done for him this past year. First and foremost, my parents for all they have done for me. The care you gave me was not easy, but I could not have done it without you. My sister Kim Saporito and niece Alyssa Harvey for being there when I needed you, along with my stepsister Lisa Burkovich (and kids). To my girlfriend Kate, you have been absolutely amazing, and I learned what unconditional love is and I thank you for that. To my sons Dominic and Michael, you were a pain in my butt, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. I am very proud of both of you. Always remember what I said, “Go to work, show up on time, give an honest day’s work, be where you are supposed to be and don’t mess around.” To Dominic’s wife, Julia and my beautiful grandsons, be strong because I’ll always be with you. Lastly, to the mother of my beautiful children, Vicky. You all sat by my bedside in the last days of my time here and I thank you for that.

A special thank you to my cousin Lisa Secor for putting together an amazing benefit, taking good care of my nails and toes every 3 weeks and for being at my side right to the end.

Mike “Zippy” also wanted to mention the following people and give his sincere thanks to Karl Pierce from Therapeutic Massage and Body Works, Jim Sweeting, Lee Clark, Karen Caverly, Alison and James Holbert, Tammy, Jenn, and Ria. Special thanks to everyone that helped at both of my benefits Jim May, Ron Matteer, Bob and Cynthia Hendler, Steve and Kelly Masetta, Kris Manuse and her parents, Karen Schreiber, Rich Secor, Leah Secor and her boyfriend Danny, Aunts, Uncles, and cousins and all the volunteers from Chili FD, Mark Provenzano with Webster RocksALS, Fritz, Todd Baxter, Tom Margis, The Bastards Motorcycle Club, Bands, Tryst, Mesh, State Line, Brass Taxi, Dial Up, M80, and Junk Yard Field Trip and all the staff at Unity Hospital and Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center.

Michael’s life story will be shared during his visitation at the funeral home, 1411 Vintage Lane (Between 390 & Long Pond Rd.), Sunday, November 17th, 2-6 PM. His memorial service will be held, Monday, November 18th, 7PM at Calvary Assembly, 3429 Chili Ave., Rochester, New York 14624.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: The Chili Fire Department (3225 Chili Ave. Rochester NY 14624), Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center (2652 Ridgeway Ave Rochester NY 14626) or the ALS Association Development Department (1275 K St. NW STE 250 Washington DC 20005).