Michael Frank Topazio, age 72 of Willowick, passed away September 23, 2020, at Lake Health West Medical Center in Willoughby. He was born September 18, 1948, in Campobasso, Italy, to the late Frank and Cora Topazio.
Mike is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Marilyn R. Topazio; he was the loving father of Angela (Bradley) Merkel, Michelle Topazio, Gina (Ryan) Roberts, Michael (Saskia) Topazio Jr., and Carla (Robert) Fitzgerald; cherished grandfather of Sara and Geena Merkel, Elizabeth (Daniel) Gallo, Christian and Nicholas Topazio-Ackley, Kayla (Jonathan) Holan, Jacqulyn (Dominic Ina) Topazio, Giovannie Topazio, Connor Roberts, Vincenzo and Valentina Topazio, Roselyn, Carmin and Leo Fitzgerald; great-grandfather of Selina, Sonja, Adrienne, and Benjamin; beloved brother of Anna Maria (Joseph) Chabail; uncle of Joseph, David, and Timothy (Margarita) Chabail; nephew of Maria DiNonno; brother-in-law of Ray Montello; uncle, nephew, cousin, and dear friend of many in Italy, England, and California.
Mike was a 1968 graduate of Willoughby South High where he received many awards in wrestling, boxing, football, and chess. He was a lively character and had many hobbies such as collecting books, winemaking, gardening, photography, writing, following the film and movie industry, buying real estate, and running marathons. While living in California during the 1980s and 90s, he pursued an acting career. He was honored to have met and worked with Betty Davis, Jimmy Stewart, Jack Nicholson, and “Fonzie.” He met Michael Jackson and many other celebrities while working in Hollywood. After returning to Ohio, he worked and retired from Cleveland’s Local 860 Laborers Union and Local 798 Pipeliners Union. He loved his animals and had many pets throughout the years.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 – 11:30am Monday, September 28, 2020, at The Abbey of Willoughby, 38011 Euclid Ave, (on the grounds of McMahon-Coyne-Vitantonio Funeral Home). A funeral mass will be held at 12 noon Monday at Immaculate Conception Church, 37932 Euclid Ave, Willoughby. Burial following mass at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon. Please observe social distancing and bring a mask covering.
The Visitation and Funeral Mass will be Livestreamed:
“The livestream will be featured in two separate videos. One of the visitation from 11:00 am – 11:40AM Monday, September 28th and the second of the funeral mass from
12:00 am -12:45 pm. You can view these videos by visiting my Facebook page at https://m.facebook.com/JeffMonrealFuneralHome/.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Jeff Monreal Funeral Services.
Reader interactions
7 Replies to “Michael Frank Topazio”
So sorry for your loss.
He truly loved his family. He had the brightest smile on his face when he was talking about all his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids! He loved that he got to baby sit and spend special time with them! I only got the pleasure of knowing this man for one day, but in that one day I saw how truly amazing and special he was to his family! I know he will be missed deeply! I am praying for his family and friends
You leave a great void.
I Loved Frankie like a brother,Worked with him in two films over 40 years ago, and although I did not see Frankie often when I did it was as if he had just seen me the night before, Love to Frankie from one of his biggest fans, Joe Estevez
Hey Mike We grew up together we were born same year but you always called me old because I was six months older then you but many times you were a pane in the butt .but we always love each other and we had a lot fun when we went on vacation together in many places I will never forget and I always will love you.Buon voyage until we meet again
May the blessing of God’s peace rest upon you as you mourn the loss of Mike.
Mike/ Frankie remains our unique and close friend. He always brought enthusiasm and humor to all.
Christy and I are so fortunate to enjoy so many stories And experiences while living in Los Angeles. He loved his family & friends deeply, and no matter how much time elapsed in conversation, it was always like “yesterday” we spoke. Our prayers and condolences to Marilyn and the entire family. He is in heaven, and sitting out the happy hours scenarios! Love and miss you terrible buddy. God is looking over you now. Until we see each other again, thanks for being our friend. It meant everything.
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