Michael P. “Mike” Bantel – (51) – of 130 East Main St., Hornell, formerly of 13 West VanScoter St., died Thursday evening (March 15, 2018) at Arnot Ogden Hospital in Elmira, following a brief illness.
Born in Amityville, NY on December 16, 1966, he was the son of William & Margaret “Marge” Bantel.
Mike grew up in Massapequa, Long Island and graduated from Rosemary Kennedy School (Nassau County ARC). While living on Long Island, he was a member of Maria Regina Parish in Seaford, NY.
Along with his family, Mike moved to Hornell in 1989. Since living in Hornell he has been a member of the Steuben ARC Program. He was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of both St. Ann’s Church of Hornell and St. Mary’s Church of Rexville, NY.
Mike enjoyed playing with his alphabet blocks and carried them with him in his knapsack at all times. He loved bowling with his friends and was a member of the Steuben ARC Bowling League. He also loved shopping with the Steuben ARC staff and also enjoyed “ringing the bell” for the Salvation Army in front of Wal-Mart at Christmastime.
Surviving are 3 brothers, Bill Bantel of Hornell, Jim Bantel of Massapequa, Long Island and Charles Bantel of West Palm Beach, FL; 1 sister, Janice Ruh of Gilbert, AZ; several nieces & nephews.
The family of Michael P. Bantel will receive friends on Thursday from 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church where a Memorial Mass will be celebrated at the conclusion of calling hours at 10:00 AM. Final interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery alongside his parents.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Mike’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to ARC of Steuben, 1 ARC Way, Bath, NY 14810.
I am so sorry for your loss. Mike seemed to be a person who loved people. I was a monitor on the transportation buses for a short time when I started here back in 1992. Mike always had a smile on his face as he came out of the house and walked to the bus. I looked forward to picking him up. He will be missed. May God give your family strength through this very hard time. Your family will be in my prayers.
Mike was such a sweet man and always had a smile to share. Rest in peace, Mike!
Memories of Michael playing with Sarah on her very first Christmas still make me smile. My time with Michael has enriched my teaching, and my student’s learning, for many, many years. May his memory be a blessing.
You was a great friend for all the years I spent with you Mr B., You’re bringing your smiles to heaven..You will be missed and God Bless you and your family..