Michele "Mike" D'Aguanno, age 93, of Taylor, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, Mike leaves behind a legacy defined by love, generosity, and the simple joys of a life well lived.

Born on May 8, 1932, in Italy to the late Guglielmo and Orazia D'Aguanno, Mike carried the warmth and richness of his Italian heritage with him throughout his life. Whether through his cooking, lively family gatherings, or sharing homemade wine with siblings and friends, he celebrated tradition in ways that brought people together. His personality was truly larger than life—humble, sincere, and kind, yet vibrant, joyful, and full of humor. He had a unique ability to make everyone feel welcome, valued, and part of his extended family.

Mike found great happiness in life's simple pleasures. He took immense pride in tending his one-acre yard and vegetable garden, generously sharing its bounty with family and friends. His nurturing spirit extended beyond the garden—his care for blooming flowers and visiting birds reflected the same love and attention he gave so freely to others. In his younger years, he developed a passion for card games, especially poker, enjoying countless evenings of laughter and camaraderie with friends.

Together with his beloved wife of 69 years, Rosa, Mike created a home filled with love, peace, and tradition. Their shared moments—feeding birds, tending the garden, and spending hours canning vegetables into jars of love—were a testament to a life built on partnership and devotion. Family dinners, especially during holidays, were at the heart of his life, where he would often express his joy with the words, "È una bella vita con la mia famiglia."

Mike dedicated over 30 years of his career as a maître d' at Lelli's Inn in Detroit, where his warm smile and welcoming presence left a lasting impression on countless guests. Whether hosting a romantic dinner or a large family gathering, he made everyone feel at home, as though they were part of his own family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Rosa D'Aguanno; his children, Rolanda (Mark) Marks and Orazio (Judy) D'Aguanno; his grandsons, Michael and Steven Marks, and Kenny (Jessica) Grech; and his great-grandsons, Robbie and Ryan Grech. He is also survived by his siblings: Jack D'Aguanno (the late Elena D'Aguanno), Maria Layden (the late Michael Layden), Joe D'Aguanno (the late Lucy D'Aguanno), and Francesca Harrington. He was preceded in death by his siblings: Larry D'Aguanno (Carol D'Aguanno), Anna Harrington (the late Donald Harrington), and Angela Dow.

Mike's life was further enriched by his many nieces and nephews, and he was a cherished great-uncle to generations of family members. He will be deeply missed by countless friends whose lives he touched with his humor, generosity, and unwavering kindness.

Mike's legacy will live on through the stories shared by those who loved him—the memories of meals around the table, his stories of life in Italy, the lessons he passed down through his actions, and the comfort he offered with food, wine, and heartfelt conversation. His enduring message of love, forgiveness, and family—always family—will continue to guide those he leaves behind.

He will be remembered always, with love.