In Memoriam of Michael J. Ruotolo
Beloved Son, Brother, Friend, Actor/Filmmaker, Organ Donation Advocate
Michael Ruotolo was so many things. An actor and filmmaker. Musician. Political Ambassador. Organ donation advocate. Beloved son, brother and friend. Also known as Mikey, Phunkolo or a million other terms of endearment, he was unique.
In order to honor the memory of our dear Michael, this foundation was established to continue to care for the things that we near and dear to Michael.
As a proud American, Michael felt it was every citizens duty to support and assist the wounded warriors that returned home from their service changed. As someone diagnosed with a serious medical condition called Eisemenger’s VSD with Pulmonary Hypertension, Michel knew the importance of organ donation personally.
When Michael passed from this life to the next, it left a huge hole in our lives. Someone so full of life was now gone. Michael’s surviving family alongside his countless friends are dedicated to continuing his legacy of service, creativity and love through this foundation.
Michael Ruotolo Eulogy
Given By Lorraine Bracco
To bear unflinching what heavens sends. This is courage. Euripides.
Time is something we are not guaranteed. Michael knew this truth and lived with great courage in the face of it all. He chose to live life to its fullest.
By example, he showed us how not to be governed by fear, but instead to be empowered by expectations.
He believed.
Michael showed us what a hero really is encouraging all of us mere mortals to move beyond our limitations and discomforts. To reach a little further; try a little harder; dig a little deeper past all the illusion of what we believe to be impossible.
He was a warrior.
Something called him back home to New Jersey five months ago; The mystery of life; perhaps a knowing?
Michael knew to return home to surround himself by love and all things familiar to him. Back to the loving arms of his mother Doreen, his father Ed, his brother Eddie; his aunt Donna, uncle Jimmy and brother James; his aunt Barbara and of course his Ali.
He came full circle back to the comfort of his life, home with his family and friends.
Michael generously filled their glasses with his sense of humor one last time over these months, with laughter and memories that will last forever.
Farewell young Prince… Until we meet again.
