Michael Persico 

Our dad, Dr. Michael Gerard Persico, was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, son and husband, in every sense of the word. 

A few things defined our dad. 

A love of nature and, above all else, the water. He’d drive out to Southold, get to the beach, walk into the water, and fill his hands. He’d pour the water over his face and neck, savoring it for a few moments, before diving in. You’d rarely find him happier than on a boat with his beloved brother, Stephen. 

Selflessness. It would be difficult to find someone who cared more for others. His beloved mom, Josephine, our wonderful grandmother, had been gone for years and he’d still say, “I woke up this morning thinking, I have to go visit my mom today.” His family members, patients, friends and neighbors all knew he could be called at any time. Even when he was in the Emergency Room, he’d insist, “Where’s mom? Make sure mom is OK. Don’t let your mom wait.” 

Our dad loved to learn: about you, about things, about anything. He didn't just want to know which country someone had hailed from, he wanted to know which city and who they lived with. He wanted to know the exact names of the plants he noticed while walking around in Southold; the names of the fish and birds we spotted at the beach. When any one of us spoke of getting another diploma, certification, or skill; dad was all for it. 

Our dad was an instigator of his own kind. He’d honk the car’s horn when you happened to walk in front of his parked car. Boppa would steal his grandchild’s cookie with a mischievous grin. He took pleasure in getting reactions from people. It was his own way of connecting. Just a few days before he passed, he asked me if I could get a hold of my brother Al; my Dad needed his help with something. So - I texted my brother. And waited. After a couple minutes Dad pressed: "Where's Al?!" "He's coming," I said. Dad's reply? "So's Christmas." 

With his every action, Dad instilled that family matters most. After a lifetime of prioritizing others, he finally gave us the opportunity to show him that he was our priority. His incredible sisters Annemarie and Camille, brother-in-law John, and sister-in-law Fran at his bedside, tending to his every need; his children visiting daily to bring groceries, help around the house, or just say hello; or his wife, Joanne - the strongest and kindest woman I know who stood by his side for over 49 years (which, trust me, was no easy task) - rarely leaving his side for more than a few minutes. These anecdotes don’t begin to describe what he meant to us, and are a testament to the values and people he held dearest. 

We love you, Dad. We always have, and we always will.

"In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in support of the health care workers at North Shore University Hospital. For much of his career, North Shore was truly Michael’s home away from home. It was there, among devoted doctors, nurses, and colleagues, that he spent much of his career caring for others with compassion, dedication, and heart. 

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