Michael F.X. DeSalis

Michael F.X. DeSalis, age 68, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2025, surrounded by his son, Xavier and partner Mary. Born on March 29, 1956, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, he grew up in Brookhaven, PA attending Our Lady of Charity school. Michael showed an early affinity for swimming and began competing at a young age at Knowlton Swim Club. His success earned him a scholarship at Malvern Prep where he was named an All American. He was also the President of the Student Council of his Senior Class. He graduated from Penn State University spending summers as an Ocean City Lifeguard and loved being by the water to continue to swim. He had a very successful career as a U.S. Postal Inspector which included a time working in Homeland Security during 9/11. The birth of his beloved son Xavier was his blessing that changed his world. As a father, he was unwavering in his love, support and dedication. Michael had many talents that included total refurbishment of many homes, starting at the age of 12 finishing the basement of his childhood home with his father. He helped his family and friends with many home projects and approached every project with dedication and pride. His talents also included restoration of classic cars and boats. His large fishing boat was a multi - year winner in the Ocean City Night In Venice. Though his hands built sturdy walls, his heart was filled with music with a deep appreciation for the Grateful Dead. He found joy and inspiration in their songs attending concerts across the country, naming his first boat, Ship of Fools. He loved living in Ocean City being by the water and beaches where he grew up as a lifeguard. He was so proud when his son, Xavier followed his footsteps as a lifeguard in Ocean City and then Florida. He deeply valued his relationships, maintaining strong friendships with an extensive group of close friends from grade school, high school, college, lifeguard and work. These lifelong bonds were a testament to his loyalty, kindness and ability to bring people together. For the last 7 years he enjoyed a special relationship with Mary spending time together bike riding on the boardwalk, visiting family and friends and traveling back and forth between Ocean City and Stuart, Florida. Michael was the cherished son of the late Michael J.and Mary J.De Salis, a beloved father of Xavier (Caroline) DeSalis, a devoted partner to Mary Ciociola, and dearly loved by his sisters, Denise (Dan) Daly, Michele Sorento and the late Lisa Wituschek. He was a much loved uncle and father figure who treasured his nephews, nieces, including a former relationship's children, Angelo and Alexis and was a significant part of their lives. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him. There will be a celebration of life scheduled at a future date. The family invites donations in Michael's name to Ocean City Beach Patrol Alumni OCRAA OCBP Alumni PO Box 880 Ocean City, NJ 08226 or The Jimmy V Foundation https://donate.v.org. "Fare you well. Fare you well. I love you more than words can tell. Listen to the river sing sweet songs to rock my soul." - Brokedown Palace

Michael F.X. DeSalis

March 29, 1956 - January 13, 2025