Michael Iannuzzi

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Iannuzzi, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Michael passed away peacefully at the age of 82 on November 10, 2024.

Born on January 14, 1942, at Frankford Hospital in Philadelphia, Michael was the son of Rocco and Mildred Iannuzzi and grew up in the Bridesburg neighborhood of Philadelphia. He was one of four children, and spent his early days playing baseball, riding his bike, and hanging out with his childhood friends. He attended All Saints School in Bridesburg. He was the head altar boy at All Saints Church and attended many ceremonies including both a visit from the Bishop and the Cardinal of Philadelphia. Michael worked as a paperboy as well at the local grocery store, delivering groceries and helping out.

Michael attended Father Judge High School and while in high school he met his future wife Barbara. After graduation, he secured a job at Sears before finding his long-term position at Rohm and Haas in Bridesburg. In addition to his work, Michael enlisted in the Air Force Reserves and pursued higher education attending night school at Temple University, as the family could not afford college, earning a degree in Finance.

On May 15, 1965 Michael and Barbara were married. Together, they raised two daughters, Karen and Michele, and moved to Delran, NJ, where they built a life full of love and cherished memories.

While working at Rohm and Haas, Michael eventually became associated with the company's Social Club travel group where he put together several ski trips. When Walt Disney World Theme Park opened in Florida, he decided to run a group trip for people from Rohm and Haas to this exciting new destination. This was the beginning of sending hundreds of Rohm and Haas families and friends to Disney World, and probably the first time many of these families had ever flown. Several people even asked him if they had to bring their own bed linens and towels as was common when you stayed down the shore in New Jersey. Additionally, he took charge of the Rohm and Hass company’s Christmas Parties for several years, putting together the party and also purchasing the gifts for the children of the employees.He even managed to secure the new Disney movie “The Island at the Top of the World” for the 1974 Christmas party at the movie theater a few days prior to its release just for the children of Rohm and Haas. His children loved going to the Christmas parties and the Rohm and Haas company picnics every year as did many of the children of Rohm and Haas employees. 

Michael loved attending his daughters' softball and soccer games, as well as their ballet, piano, and theatrical performances. In later years, he found immense joy in watching his grandchildren, Jake and Jenna, participate in their own sports and performances. 

In retirement, Michal enjoyed playing golf with his good friend, Ed Garry and traveling the world with his wife Barbara and good friends, John and Marian Crank. An avid traveler, Michael wanted to see as much of the world as possible and managed to see quite a bit of it. He also fulfilled a lifelong dream by writing and publishing a book titled An Accidental Fortune, which reflected his experiences in the Air Force, trips to the shore and even made the historic landmark “Lucy the Elephant” an important part of his story.

Michael’s greatest gift to those around him was his sense of humor. He had a unique ability to make people laugh. He was kind, generous, and devoted to his family. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched, the memories he created, and the love he gave.