I found out yesterday that a friend from high school passed away this week. Mike Martinelli died on Friday, February 15th, 2008, 3 weeks after being burned in a fire at his home. Mike had been found lying unconscious beside his back door.
MARTINELLI Michael R. beloved son of Joseph and Judith Zink Martinelli, loving brother of Amanda (John) Hull, Joseph Martinelli Jr and Stefano Martinelli, dear grandson of Margaret Zink Fritsch, caring uncle of Marissa, Emma and Ainsley Hull, also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. The family would like to thank the staff at the Burn Unit of University Hospital for all their hard work and dedication. Friday, February 15, 2008, residence Milford, Ohio. Mass of Christian Burial, St. Elizabeth Seton Church, Monday, February 18, 9:30 AM, visitation Sunday, St. Elizabeth Seton Gymnasium 4:30 8:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, family requests memorials to Shriner's Burn Institute or Mike's Nieces Education Fund, Attn Kate Zink, P.O. Box 99, Alexandria, KY 41001. Evans Funeral Home serving the family. www.evansfuneralhome.com.
Mike and I hung out together the last couple of years in high school, and we had several mutual friends. Because of Mike, I met my high school sweetheart. He also taught me about car stereos and introduced me to the idea of saving money--two very important lessons.
While I have not seen Mike since high school, I think of him often. I am very sad for his family and those that were close to him. Mike was a great guy. He is the first of my friends to have passed away.