Michael Mastrianni

Michael (Mike) Mastrianni came to live in Barre in July of 2008. Mike grew up in Glens Falls, New York and spent much of his youth at Lake George, a place so special in his heart. For many years, Mike lived in Granville, N.Y. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from McGill University in Montreal and worked for approximately twenty-years for Shaw Industries. However, a man is not defined by dates and places, but rather by his actions.
In Barre, Mike would most commonly be seen driving his pickup truck with his trusty sidekick, Daisy, the beagle, by his side. They were a team, going to their favorite places, such as Tractor Supply, Aubuchon’s and Nelson’s or just driving for the pleasure of looking at Vermont’s beautiful countryside. Mike loved animals, especially dogs and cats. When he retired from Shaw, as his parting gift, he chose cats from the Central Vermont Humane Society where he had found Daisy.
Mike was an avid reader and took particular pleasure in his volunteer work at the Aldrich Library. He belonged to the First Barre Presbyterian Church and discovered there a supportive and wonderful group of friends who welcomed us warmly into their fold.
One of Mike’s keenest interests was guns and most recently, skeet-shooting. He was not a hunter, but enjoyed competitive shooting. He took such pleasure from participating in his weekly skeet team (No Fly Zone) sessions at the Barre Fish and Game Club. He also enjoyed participating in summer SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) events with his friend, Bernie Lewis, last summer winning the Senior Duelist title.
Mike is survived by his wife, Leslie, his sister, Susan DeFelice and his children Jessica Burger, Nicholas and Michael Mastrianni. Mike treasured his children and was so proud of each of them. He loved spending time with them and was so excited whenever they came to visit.
Finally, Mike was simply a good man. He was quiet, strong, kind, well-mannered and always willing to help anyone who needed it. Even in dying, his first action of recognition of a friend or a nurse was a smile. His gentle, loving presence will be forever missed by those of us who knew and loved him.
Mike would want his love and gratitude to be extended to his friends, to the warm hearts and gentle people of our congregation and to our kind and generous neighbors who have supported us with such care through these difficult weeks.
Mike’s funeral will be hosted by the First Presbyterian Church of Barre on Monday, May 4, 2015 at 11:00 AM, followed by a reception in the church vestry.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Presbyterian of Barre, 19 Seminary Street, Barre, VT, 05641 or the Aldrich Public Library, 6 Washington St., Barre, VT, 05641. The family will make a donation in Mike’s name to the Central Vermont Humane Society.