Michael V. Ragusa, 89 formerly of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on Monday May 23, 2011 in Our Lady of Peace Nursing Care Residence, Lewiston, NY where he was a resident for several years. Born in Buffalo, NY, he was the son of the late Joseph and Philomena (Buono) Ragusa.

Michael was raised in Buffalo by his mother who was widowed at the age of twenty-two and her extended family. He was fortunate to have many caring aunts, uncles and cousins, who treated him and his sister as a member of their own immediate families. Michael was a member of St. Lucy RC Church, and attended neighborhood schools. He graduated from Hutch Tech in 1939, and worked at the former Curtis-Wright Airplane Company until his induction into the United States Army Air Corp in 1942. He served in the Pacific Theater during World War II and was active in the Borneo, Bismarck, Archipelago, New Guinea and Southern Philippines Campaigns. He was awarded the Asiatic Pacific Theater Medal with five bronze stars, the Philippine Liberation Medal with one bronze star, Good Conduct Medal and World War II Victory Medal before his honorable discharge as a Corporal in December of 1945.

Michael moved to Niagara Falls soon after his marriage to Rose M. (Calipari) Ragusa in June of 1948. He was employed by Bell Aircraft Corporation intermittently for thirty years. During that time he also worked full time in construction (Parkway Apartments and Niagara Power Project) and in maintenance at Bishop Duffy High School. Many, many Duffy alumni have fond memories of his 'bailing them out' of detention, his ready smile and daily jokes.

He was a 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council #247, the LaSalle Sportsman Club, St. Joseph's Church Ushers Club and Holy Name Society. He also served as a Democratic Party Committeeman in Niagara Falls. Michael enjoyed fishing, and during clement weather, could be found at almost any fishing hole in Niagara County. He was an avid pheasant hunter when that game-bird was still plentiful. He was a big fan of the New York Yankees and the Buffalo Bills. However, he was happiest when he was surrounded by his family, especially his three grandchildren.

Mr. Ragusa is survived by his son, Dr. Michael (Patti) Ragusa, Jr. of Lewiston, NY, his three grandchildren, Michael Ragusa of Amherst, NY, Marielle Ragusa of Manhattan, NY and Micelle Ragusa of Buffalo, NY as well as nieces and nephews. He will be sorely missed by all of them. In addition to his parents and wife he was also predeceased by his sister Josephine (Ragusa) Morabito.

Visitation will be held on Thursday from 4-8 p.m. at the M.J. COLUCCI AND SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL 2730 MILITARY ROAD NIAGARA FALLS, NY. Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday May 27th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter's RC Church, 620 Center Street Lewiston, NY with Msgr. John W. Zeitler officiating. EVERYONE WILL ASSEMBLE AT CHURCH. Entombment with Military Honors will follow at St. Joseph's Cemetery Niagara Falls, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Catholic High School, 520 66th Street Niagara Falls, NY 14304.