Michael Charles “Mike” Perito, 76, passed away peacefully at home on July 24, 2025, in Grass Valley, California. 

He was born on May 10, 1948, in Tupper Lake, New York to Charles Perito and Madelyn Root Perito.

Mike was the beloved husband of Jennifer Davis Perito and a devoted father to Amanda Perito Lalich and Jessica Perito. He was the true definition of unconditional love, and was the grounding rock for his girls. He loved them with every fiber of his being. 

He shared a close bond with his son-in-law, Christopher Lalich, and found great joy in being a grandfather aka Pop Pop, to Astrid Lalich, his first and only grandchild. Michael is also remembered by his brother, James Perito of South Carolina. 

Mike was predeceased by his parents, Charles Perito and Madelyn Root Perito of Watertown, NY.

Mike served in the Navy for four years, and was stationed on the aircraft carrier, The USS America, during the Vietnam War. After his service, he relocated to Monterey, California.

 It was there that he met the love of his life, Jennifer. They married on Oct 14, 1983, and raised their two children on the Monterey Peninsula, until relocating to Nevada County, CA in the summer of 2000. 

Mike and Jennifer shared a most special bond, and were devoted in love to each other for 44 years, until his last breath. 

Known for his quick wit and memorable storytelling, Mike had a gift for lifting spirits with his laughter. His humor and warmth left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path. He was sharp and often felt like a personal encyclopedia to his family, and had a memory that would pull from the deepest depths of his soul. 

A passionate gardener, Mike found peace and purpose in tending to his backyard sanctuary. Surrounded by blooming flowers and the songs of birds drawn to his ever-full feeders, he cultivated not just plants but moments of quiet joy and serenity.

He shared his eclectic taste in music with the world, and always had a tune to sing, or  a memory associated with a song or live performance that he saw. He lives on in his family’s memories through music every day. 

He had many wild life experiences to share. From growing up in New York City’s ‘Little Italy’, to riding his motorcycle into his favorite local bar… and promptly getting kicked out.         His stories often felt like something straight out of a movie, and painted a rich picture of the life that he lived. 

Mike will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but never forgotten. Forever imprinted on our hearts, and that will never change. 

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