Michael "Mickey" Gentile's Obituary
Motown music producer Mickey Gentile passes.
Mr. Michael “Mickey” Gentile died peacefully in New York City on July 5, 2019 at the age of 86. Michael was a resident of New York City and Syracuse, NY. He was graduate of Syracuse University, Manhattan School of Music, and served in the Korean War. Michael, along with his wife, was an acclaimed music producer, arranger, and songwriter for Motown Records and worked with such luminaries as Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, Diana Ross, and Stevie Wonder. After Motown he was the personal music director for Connie Francis then went on to be A&R director for Bob Crew. Michael was also the A&R director for Morris Levy’s Roulette Records.
Michael is survived by his loving wife Jennifer, daughters, Lisa (Jeffrey States) Gentile, Robin (James) Tepe, and Tara (Donald) Wood; grandchildren; a sister, Mary DeCicco; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A funeral mass in celebration of Michael’s life will take place at 10:00 am on Wednesday, July 10, 2019 in All Saints Church, 1340 Lancaster Ave., officiated by Father Frederick Daley. Private burial will take place in Assumption Cemetery, Syracuse. Family and friends may call from 5:00- 7:00 pm on Tuesday, July 9, 2019 at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Michael’s life.
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