Michael Joseph Polito passed away Sept. 1, 2026, at the age of 63. He was born March 19, 1963, in Red Bank, the youngest of four children of the late Thomas and Mary Polito. He lived in the Bayshore area for most of his life and remained deeply connected to the community and the people who knew him best.
Michael brought warmth, humor and kindness into every room he entered. He was funny, kind and friendly, and those qualities made him easy to love and impossible to forget. He had a gift for making others feel welcome and his presence was often the highlight of any gathering. Family and friends will remember him not only for his easy smile and good nature, but also for the genuine care he showed to everyone around him.
He graduated from Henry Hudson High School and studied electronics technology at DeVry University. Michael went on to build a career doing what he loved most and became an amazing chef at several Jersey Shore restaurants. His cooking was widely admired, and friends and family often asked him to prepare meals for them because everything he made was delicious. He took great pride in his work and found joy in sharing his talent with others. Through his cooking, he created memories, brought people together and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to enjoy his food.
Outside of work, Michael loved sports. He especially enjoyed football and was an accomplished golfer. He won many tournaments and came very close to playing on the professional circuit, a testament to both his skill and dedication. Sports were more than just a pastime for him; they were a source of excitement, challenge and personal achievement, and he followed them with enthusiasm throughout his life.
Michael was predeceased by his wife, Dawn Richey, and his brother, James. Their loss was deeply felt, and he carried their memories with him always.
He is survived by his two sisters and their families, Vickie and Ford Cotton and their children, Bruce, Mark and Ford III, and Rosemarie and Paul Paronto and their children, Tara and Michael. He also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory and the many moments they shared with him.
Those who knew Michael will remember a man who lived with heart, humor and generosity. He had a way of making life brighter for the people around him, whether through a great meal, a shared laugh, or a kind word at just the right time. His legacy is one of love, talent and devotion to family and friends. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered with affection and gratitude by all whose lives he touched.
The article originally appeared in the September 17 – 23, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
