Michael Francis Laporta

Michael Francis Laporta of North East, MD, passed away peacefully at home Tuesday, May 11, 2010, surrounded by his loving family at the age of 74. Michael was born in Syracuse, NY, on August 26, 1935, the son of the late Michael Laporta and Katherine Laporta now 106 years of age. He graduated from LeMoyne College in Syracuse, NY with a BS in Social Studies. Michael retired in 1998 from his position as President at Automotive Resources International, a division of Holman Enterprises in Mt. Laurel, NJ, a position he held for 16 years. He was Senior VP of Sales and Marketing for 3 years before being promoted to President. He was Founder and President of Sea City Marine in Chesapeake City, MD from 1991-2000. Previously, he had been the Marketing Manager for Remanufactured Motors and Parts in Pennsauken, NJ and an Executive Manager for Chrysler Motors Corporation. He will always be remembered as a caring, giving and compassionate husband, father, grandfather and friend to all who knew him. Michael was passionate about being on the water, whether he was on a boat or at a restaurant with a great view. He loved his home on the Chesapeake Bay and enjoyed many happy years since his retirement living his life in peace and happiness. He leaves behind his beloved wife of nine years and best friend, Marjorie nee Thatcher, four sons, Donald Laporta and his wife Linda, Daniel Laporta, David Laporta and his wife Sharen, Michael Laporta, Jr. and his wife Halina; five daughters, Kathleen Gasbarro, Jacqueline O'Kane and fiancée Dr. Hector Sanchez, Mary Stuckel, Tricia van der Steur and husband Erik, Christine Hutchins; and one stepson, Michael Ferguson; 32 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren; his sister, Mary Jo Creno; many nieces and nephews and his two canine best friends, Archie and Casey. The family would like to give a special thank you to his amazing friend and doctor Kamar Adeleke for his friendship, love and support. Michael has requested that anyone attending his funeral not wear black. He wanted everyone to celebrate his life and to remember how very special his family and friends were to him. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at 11:00 AM at St. Jude's Roman Catholic Church, 928 Turkey Point Road, North East, MD, with visitation for family and friends beginning at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow in St. Rose of Lima Cemetery, Chesapeake City, MD. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to: Dr. Adeleke's Foundation, Metro Hospital in Ibadan Nigeria, c/o Medical Resources International, 25470 Medical Center Drive #204, Murrieta, CA 92562. For condolences, visit www.crouchfuneralhome.com.