EAST MILLINOCKET – Michael Provenzano, 87, passed away Sept. 19, 2009, surrounded by his loving family at his home, after a brief illness. He was born Sept. 28, 1921, in Pratania, Italy, the son of Carolina and Felix Provenzano. Michael’s family immigrated to America when he was 9, and he entered the public school system. He graduated from Schenck High School, Class of 1943. Upon graduating he entered the U.S. Army and served with company of the 343rd Infantry Regiment. His duties included those of squad leader and platoon guide, serving in both the Pacific and European theaters. He was honorably discharged with the rank of staff sergeant in March 1946. He returned to East Millinocket and married his sweetheart, Patricia Galvin, April 23, 1946. They shared 50 wonderful years together, raising their two sons, Michael and Patrick. She passed away in October 1996. He went to work for Great Northern Paper Co., and worked as a mason for 43 years, retiring in 1985. Michael was a lifelong communicant of St. Peter’s Catholic Church and served for many years on the parish council, fulfilling duties as a member and president. He was an active union representative for Carpenters and Joiners Union, Local 1612, serving as president and negotiator for union contracts for many years. Michael was a compassionate, caring human being who took pleasure in performing many kind deeds for family and friends. He enjoyed spending time with his sons at Elm Pond. He also was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots. He is survived by his two loving sons, Michael and daughter-in-law, Norma, and Patrick and his companion, Sharon Thibodeau; brother, James and wife, Mary Provenzano; granddaughters, Julie Powers and husband, Lee, Lisa Gagnon and husband, Christopher, and Krystin Provenzano; great-grandchildren, Alex and Nick Powers, and Emily and Derek Gagnon; a very special sister-in-law, Catherine Bonis and her daughter, Ann Catherine; several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by sister and brother-in-law, Mary and Antonio Bonadino of East Millinocket. Friends are invited to visit with the family 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Tuesday at Lamson Funeral Home, 11 Tamarack St., Millinocket. A service of Christian burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 58 Cedar St., East Millinocket, with the Rev. Daniel Watson, deacon, presiding. Interment will be at Millinocket Cemetery. Gifts in memory of Michael may be sent to St. Peter’s Catholic Church, East Millinocket, to help those in need of food and fuel assistance. Messages of condolence may be expressed at www.lamsonfh.com.
MICHAEL PROVENZANO
