On February 5, 2021, Michael Bruciati, one of ICS’ very first clients, passed away.
Michael came to ICS in 1994, the year that he started his job at Mollie Stone’s Market. In fact, he celebrated his 25th anniversary with his coworkers and customers in February 2019 and retired at the end of that month. For Michael, working at Mollie Stone’s was a great source of pride. His mom, Jeanette, shared that when they were out in public and he saw a customer, he would go up to them and introduce them to his mom as “his customer”. Michael knew how to take care of them and in return, his customers and coworkers loved and encouraged Michael.
Michael knew the secret of how to connect with others. Whenever he met someone new, he would ask them questions about their family. Michael’s capacity to love was great and it was this gift that allowed him to connect with others in such a genuine and heartfelt way. And he never forgot a name - this was another way that he made others feel seen and appreciated.
One of Michael’s passions was dancing! He never missed the 3rd Friday night dances hosted by REC Inc and he was always the first one on the dance floor at ICS’ annual fundraising events. Every summer Michael would attend concerts and loved the band that played at Sebastiani's Winery. Michael also loved to travel the world with his family and was a true Italian when it came to food!
Michael loved life. He loved his work, his community and most of all, his beloved family. He was a true ambassador of joy and the legacy of his love for others will forever be a part of our community.
"Michael will be remembered by his sheepish grin, his jokes, his love of people and his family (always told me he was a momma’s boy). Michael was so close with his parents, brother and wife, his 2 nieces and nephew.He loved all his family and friends and you always felt you were the most special person in the world when Michael greeted you! He will be missed and remembered fondly with laughter, music and dance!"
Donna Lemmon, Retired Executive Director