Rochester, NY: Passed away peacefully at home, September 20, 2024. He was 96.

Mike is predeceased by his wife, Ursula (Vacca) Iafrati; grandchildren, Kyle, Carli, Maria & Anthony; brothers John & Alfred, sisters, Kay, Louise & Assunta. He is survived by his sons, Mike (Nancy), Mark (Vicky) & Marty (Lisa) Iafrati; grandchildren, Laura (Dan Andrus), Christopher (Gloria Fuentes Garcia), Jacquelyn (Shaun) Parry, Bridget (fiancée Bob Schuster), Megan, Taylor (Chris) Sufra, & Samantha; great grandchildren, Kailey & Daniel, great-great grandchild, Kayden; sister-in-law, Janet Vacca; several dear nieces & nephews.

Fittingly named for the legendary 15th century Italian artist, Mike sculpted a masterpiece of life from the blank canvas of humble beginnings. A selfless and simple man, he was deeply devoted to family. He was driven by few but ironclad principles: act with integrity, work hard, strive to bring joy to others, and always do the right thing. In living these, he has created a shining beacon and North Star for generations of family to follow.

Like most members of the greatest generation, Mike grew up in the Great Depression. He went on to join the U.S. Army immediately upon graduating from Madison High School in Rochester. He served in Korea as part of the 6th Infantry Division. He remained as an active member of the American Legion for many years.

It has been said that the two most important days in one’s life are the day you are born and the day you understand why. Mike quickly learned the latter when he met the love of his life, Ursula (affectionately, “Queenie”). They quickly married and forged an unbreakable bond raising three adoring sons along the way.

Despite limited free time during the child rearing years, Mike continued to demonstrate the principle of Charity. He took on the role of Scoutmaster (Troop 348) for seven years – setting a great example and fostering life skills and independence in his scouts. He also treasured his hunting and fishing trips with his band of lifelong friends. As an avid outdoorsman, these times were most precious for Mike for many decades.

Mike’s creative side blossomed as well. He taught himself photography initially in the confines of the family basement. But his skills and aspirations quickly grew. Ultimately, Mike achieved the title of Fellow of the Kodak Camera Club. A black & white photography expert, he became world renown with certain pieces of his work hanging in galleries around the world. He was particularly proud of his “One Man Show” displayed in Paris, France. More important to his family, however, are the many candid family shots will be cherished forever.

His gift, among so many others, was that he astutely understood the power of a moment and how quickly time passes. Following Ursula’s passing in 2011, Mike found solace and joy watching his family continue to grow and prosper. Ultimately health issues required him to receive dialysis treatments three days a week. In further testament to his tenacity and toughness, he endured over 900 sessions over the past six years until his death.

“Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories.”

Mike’s life story will be shared during visitation, 3:00-6:00 pm on Monday, September 30th at the funeral home, 1411 Vintage Lane. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated 10 am on Tuesday, October 1st at St. Charles Borromeo Church, 3003 Dewey Ave. Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery to follow Mass.