Michael Joel Disario, 69, of the Town of Pamelia, NY, passed away unexpectedly on August 24, 2026.

Michael was born on January 17, 1957, in Melrose, Massachusetts, the son of Emil F. and Theresa A. (McLaughlin) Disario. He graduated from Putnam High School in Connecticut in 1975, where he played ice hockey.

From a young age, Michael developed a love of flying, inspired by his grandfather. His passion for aviation would remain an important part of his life. Following high school, Michael entered the United States Air Force, where he served as Pararescue for three years before being honorably discharged in 1979. He returned home and worked as a medic in the local area before re-entering the United States Army on February 4, 1981. He was honorably discharged on June 10, 1992.

During his military career, Michael served as a flight paramedic and completed a tour during Operation Desert Storm, where he received numerous decorations and medals.

Michael was stationed in Germany when he was honorably discharged from the Army. It was there that he met the love of his life, Carmen. They were married for 42 years and raised two children; their son, Benjamin, and their daughter, Torri. Following his military service, Michael worked one year for a private contractor as a flight paramedic in Kuwait before moving to Watertown, NY. He continued his career as a paramedic with Guilfoyle Ambulance Service and the Fort Drum ambulance squad before eventually retiring from the profession.

Michael was a longtime member of the VFW in Saugus, Massachusetts. He was an accomplished aviator and at one time built and owned his own airplane, which he loved to fly. He was also a skilled scuba diver and achieved the rank of dive master. Michael continued playing hockey with the Fort Drum team during the 1980s and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and traveling.

Michael was also an accomplished author, having written two books. The first, titled DUSTOFF: Enter at Your Own Risk, was published on October 21, 2021. It is a compilation of twelve short stories from Michael’s career as a DUSTOFF flight medic. Michael later authored his second book, Thoughts of a Baby Boomer: Lost for Forty Years!, published on October 31, 2022. The book is a collection of quotes and personal reflections that Michael wrote during his youth.

Above all, Michael will be remembered by his family and friends for his adventurous spirit, his dedication to serving others, and his love of life and aviation.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Carmen A. Disario; firstborn son, Anthony M. Disario (from a previous marriage), and husband, Leonardo Palacios, of Dallas, Texas; secondborn son, Benjamin A. Disario of Watertown; a daughter, Torri A. Disario of Philadelphia, NY, and their partner, Nova J. Billick; two sisters and a brother-in-law, Doreen Follis and Christine (William) Foley, all of Massachusetts; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents.

Arrangements are with Hart & Bruce Funeral Home. In keeping with Michael’s wishes, he will be cremated, and a celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to one of the following organizations that were close to Michael’s heart: Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Online condolences may be left at www.hartandbrucefh.com