Michael A. Verrastro

Michael A. Verrastro, 63, of Holly Grove, Virginia, passed away peacefully on November 27, 2024.

Michael was born on November 4, 1961, in Stamford, Connecticut son of Michele Hogan. He grew up in New Canaan, Connecticut. After high school he attended Technical Careers Institute then proudly served six years in the United States Naval Construction Battalion, better known as the SeaBees. Following his military service, Michael operated his own construction business in Connecticut before relocating to the Richmond, Virginia area. For 20 years he worked in the Henrico Public School System Career and Technical Education Department (CTE). He later pursued his most fulfilling role as a Heavy Equipment Operations Instructor at Goochland High School. Michael’s “Can Do” attitude was displayed in his passion for teaching kids, where he made a lasting impact and found great joy in helping his students succeed. 

Michael found joy in a variety of activities that connected him to his love for adventure and the outdoors. When he wasn’t riding his motorcycle or working on his ’69 Camaro, he enjoyed attending car shows, admiring the craftsmanship of classic vehicles. He cherished summer times spent at the beach and fishing in The Outer Banks. As the fall hunting season arrived, Michael would find both excitement and satisfaction in the pursuit of deer and turkey. These hobbies, whether by the water, in the woods or under the hood of a car, were integral to Michael's life.

A talented mechanic, Michael could fix anything and was always quick to share his skills with family, friends, and neighbors. He was a devoted Harley-Davidson and Chevy enthusiast who passionately cheered for the Dallas Cowboys and the late Dale Earnhardt.

Michael had a twinkle in his eye and was quick to greet others with a smile. A friend to many, he will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and infectious sense of humor. He brought light and laughter to all those around him. 

In addition to his devoted mother Michele, Michael is survived by his sister, Denise V. Iannone and her husband Nick, along with their children, Nicholas, Isabella, and Michael; his sister, Barbra Herrmann and her sons; Joshua, his wife Courtney and their children, Amelia and Teddy, and Chad and his fiancée Logan. He is also survived by his loving partner, Caryn Weir, his lifelong friend Jimmy Pickering and many other friends. Michael cherished the bond with friends and family deeply, especially his nephews and niece, they were a source of immense pride and joy.

Michael was predeceased by his brother-in-law Fred Herrmann and his grandmother Irene Costello.

All are welcome to a Celebration of Life on Saturday January 4, at 1pm at the Gum Spring United Methodist Church. Guests are welcome to wear their best t-shirt in honor of Michael. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation (www.Parkinson.org) in Michael’s memory.