Obituary of Michael Anthony Quindazzi

Lake Luzurne: Michael Quindazzi, 81, of Mikey Drive, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by friends and family who love him on Friday, January 18th, 2019. Born on November 9th, 1937 in New Rochelle, NY, he was the son of the late Michael and Margaret Quindazzi. Mike’s professional career started in the meat industry where he managed Strasburger in Harlem, NY. He later started a trailer business manufacturing custom boat trailers. He worked very hard and was proud that he was able to retire at the age of 45. Mike was a true-born adventurer. He dove whole-heartedly into his endeavors and excelled at the challenges he took on. Mike’s interest in boating started at age 10 when his mom dropped him off at the Long Island Sound to test his 10 foot Pram with a 5 HP mercury. He quickly got into the boat racing world where he set an APBA 5 mile Mod VP record on a 1 1/4 mile course at 68.524 mph on May 29, 1983. In that same year, he also won the Short Course Nationals and the Marathon Nationals on Delta Lake in Rome, NY. His passion for boating and speed on the water was something that he shared with his son as they built engines and raced together for decades. In Mike’s later years, he continued to boat in other capacities, such as captaining boats on Lake George and fishing. Mike was a pilot and flew in the aircraft that he built himself. He was known for his voyage from New York to Montana, a place he loved to visit. Mike loved to take his friends, family and even his beloved doggie, Dawg, up into the clouds. Mike always liked a challenge. He hiked and completed the 46 high peaks of the Adirondacks in the winter… in 52 days. In the winter months when Mike wasn’t hiking or hunting, he could be found on the slopes with his daughter and granddaughters, decked out in a neon pink hat and camo. He was an avid believer in the right to own guns and taught his children and grandchildren how to shoot. Many people knew of Mike’s big personality as he made friends and told his famous stories everywhere he went. He loved to spark an intellectual conversation and enjoyed a good debate. Mike is survived by his two children, Michele (Jim) Hanley, Michael (Emma) Quindazzi, his grandchildren, Kaitlin (Will) Carson, Jessica Quirk, Mick Quindazzi, William Quindazzi, and Spencer Quindazzi; and brother, Anthony (Bernadette) Quindazzi. A special mention must be made for the many friends that he made throughout his journeys that he considers to be part of his family. Although Mike questioned and challenged those around him, he truly had a big heart and cared deeply for those in his life. Friends may call on Mike’s family from 1-3pm on Saturday January 26th, 2019 at the Alexander Funeral Home, 3809 Main St., Warrensburg, NY. A memorial service to celebrate his life will immediately follow the visitation at 3 pm, at the funeral home with Fr. Thomas Pettigrew, officiating. In lieu of flowers (Papa Mike was never a floral guy and he would think it a waste), expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in Mike’s memory. Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guest book, condolences, and directions.