Plan for the Future
Mike’s Funeral Mass will be live-streamed on Saturday morning.
Click here to view the Mass https://youtu.be/VPB_i3thSJo
The Pacchia Family of Chatham, New Jersey lost their biggest champion on March 28, 2022. Michael A. Pacchia Jr. lived a full life which ended much too soon at the age of 52. Mike was the guy you wanted in your corner. The eternal optimist with a full heart, his legacy will live on in his countless good deeds and the deposits he made in the lives of others. Mike was a loving husband, enthusiastic father, doting son, brother and uncle – and best friend to many.
Mike was born on March 16, 1970 in Orange, New Jersey, the beloved son of Lucille and Michael Sr. and loving brother to Carla. Mike grew up in Maplewood, New Jersey where he forged lifelong friendships and met the love of his life and future wife, Cathie Nersesian. He graduated from Columbia High School, where he starred in lacrosse and was named Captain his senior year.
Mike graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in business. He began his career at Goldman Sachs and Lehman Brothers, eventually deciding to harness his entrepreneurial spirit by starting his own Financial Services IT consulting firm.
Mike and Cathie were married in 1999 and above all else, Mike Pacchia was a family man. He and Cathie’s four children, Luke, Nena, Amy and Nicholas were his greatest source of pride and joy. He was well known for sending motivating words of wisdom to his kids via text and was always eager to throw a ball, talk through a decision or just listen. Mike’s enthusiasm and youthful energy was not just contained to his family. He was a beloved figure in Chatham and affectionately known as Captain Fun in their neighborhood.
A natural athlete, coach, competitor and role model, Mike was at his best when on a field or court, whether coaching his kids in lacrosse, playing softball for the Eskies, or being the most devoted paddle player at his home club, Minisink, and various clubs in Morris County. His love for the Jersey Shore was unmatched. Always with family, Mike loved his time surfing with the kids and kicking back on the beach with Cathie.
Mike is survived by his wife of 23 years, Cathie, and their four children, Luke, Nena, Amy and Nicholas. He was predeceased by his parents, Michael A. Pacchia Sr. and Lucille Russomanno. Additionally, he is survived by his loving sister, Carla Gilbride and brother-in-law, Daniel Gilbride of Garwood, NJ. Mike was adored by his in-laws, Roy and Marie Nersesian of Maplewood, NJ, Diane McGuire (Jim), Julie Nersesian, Eric Nersesian (Jess) and he was a favorite uncle to Allison Gilbride, Brendan McGuire and Aiden Nersesian.
Mike’s impact on all who knew him will never fade. His positivity and exuberance will inspire those he leaves behind to lead a joyful life of optimism, love, and adventure. Be Like Mike.
