Obituary

Michael C. Dal Fratello, 73, of Litchfield Park, Arizona died early Friday afternoon, December 10, 2021, at Banner Estrella Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona.

Born March 11, 1948, in Rockford, to Ida and Dino Dal Fratello.  Michael graduated from Rockford Auburn High School in 1966.  While attending Auburn he was an Executive Officer in the National Defense Cadet Corps.  He joined the National Guard April 11, 1969 and was honorably discharged on April 10, 1975.  Michael attended Northern Illinois University earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts and two master’s degrees; one from Rockford College in education.

Michael was an administrator, educator, and coach in the Rockford area, spending most of his career at Rockford East High School as an art teacher, special education teacher, and later in his career a special education diagnostician.  He retired at the age of 63, but continued to work in the district as an administrator and teacher.

Michael was an avid bodybuilder for most of his life, participating in bodybuilding competitions across the country, even placing third for his age group in the Mr. America competition.  He prioritized health and fitness and exercised daily.  In 2010 Michael moved to Peoria, Arizona on a part-time basis where he enjoyed creating his artwork and completing a variety of home-improvement projects.  In 2013 he, along with his partner Robin, moved full-time to what he referred to as his “forever home” in Litchfield Park, Arizona.  He loved being a host.  Michael always had beautifully landscaped properties and would frequently host garden parties for friends and family.  Michael enjoyed cooking, eating out, drinking wine, swimming in his pool, and traveling.  He and his partner Robin enjoyed visiting vineyards and wineries throughout the country and Italy.  They had plans to spend a month in Italy this summer and had hoped to eventually move there.

Michael was a devoted son, brother, father, and friend to many.  He was family-focused; a feeling that intensified when he became a Papa.  He was deeply loved and will be missed by many.

Survivors include daughter, Jessica (Chris) Potter; grandchildren, Castor and Tallulah; partner, Robin Carr; sister, Mary (John) Galvan; nieces, nephews, and many friends.  Predeceased by parents, Ida Guzzo Dal Fratello and Dino Dal Fratello; brother, Richard Dal Fratello, newborn sister Constance Dal Fratello; Uncles, Aunts, and Cousins.

At Michael’s request, there will be no funeral or memorial service.  A Celebration of Life will be held in the near future, loved ones will be notified.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Michael’s honor to an organization that makes you think of him.