Michael J. “Arg” Argentieri – 68 – of 373 Canisteo St., Hornell, died Wednesday afternoon (September 29, 2021) at Hornell Gardens, following a long illness.

Born in Hornell on November 18, 1952, he was the son of Joseph & Lois (Campbell) Argentieri.

Mike grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1970).  While at HHS, he played cornet in the school band and served as Drum Major in the marching band.

Following high school graduation, Arg attended Syracuse University where he majored in music.  He later graduated from Alfred University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education.

In his younger years, Mike served as bartender & pizza maker at Down by the Station, a popular restaurant/bar in Hornell.  He later tended bar at the former Knights of Columbus in Hornell.  For several years Mike was employed at the former Foster-Wheeler Corporation in Dansville and for many years served as a substitute teacher, primarily at the Hornell High School where he enjoyed working with and touching the lives of the students.  More recently he was employed at the City of Hornell Department of Public Works.

Mike had been a member of the Hornell Knights of Columbus and the Carducci Lodge (Sons of Italy).  He had a deep love & appreciation of all music and was well known as a talented piano player.  He enjoyed playing golf and rooting for the Buffalo Bills (NFL) and New York Yankees (MLB).  Mike was a Big Fan of The Three Stooges and always enjoyed a good laugh.  His friendly personality and humorous way of “looking at life” will be greatly missed by everyone that had the pleasure of knowing him!  A nicer human being never walked the face of the earth!

Arg was preceded in death by his parents, Joe & Lois Argentieri; 2 brothers-in-law, Richard Benesch and Jim Benjamin.

Surviving are 2 sisters, Janice “Jan” Benjamin of Mebane, NC and Diane Benesch of Hornell; his brother, David (Linda) Argentieri of Forest Hill, MD; nieces & nephews, Amanda Benesch, Josh (Emma) Benjamin, Sara (Andrew) Lake, Kali (Kevin Putnam) Benjamin, Megan Argentieri & Andrew Argentieri; great-nieces & great- nephews, Cameron Hyer, Riley Hyer, Owen Hyer, Charlotte Benjamin, Abby Lake, Alexander Lake & Oliver Lake.

The family of Michael J. “Arg” Argentieri will receive friends on Saturday from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.  A Memorial Service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 2:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.

A heartfelt “Thank-You” goes out to the wonderful staff & caregivers at Hornell Gardens.  Your professionalism and compassion in making Mike’s final days easier and dignified is appreciated and will never be forgotten!

Mike’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.