Vito Marchese, 90, of Vero beach, FL passed away August 9, 2022.
He was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan and lived in the Detroit area prior to moving to Vero Beach in 2006.
Vito grew up in East Detroit, raised lovingly and loudly by his mother, her four sisters and his Sicilian-born grandmother. He graduated from East Detroit High School in 1950. Having uncles by marriage that served during World War II as his role models, he joined the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict in service to his country. He worked as an illustrator and graphic designer in the automotive industry until he began his storied career in insurance. He went on to own two successful agencies before leaving the Detroit area. He continued his “non-retirement” in Vero Beach working with the Tim & Kathy Modesitt Agency as a finance and insurance advisor.
He is preceded in death by his beloved mother, grandmother, “the aunts” and their husbands.
Vito is survived by his loving and devoted wife Deborah L. Wood, son Randy Dixon (Candy), daughter Tricia Stoddard (Dan), daughter Jacqueline Worthley, son Derek Wood (Susan), grandchildren Patrick Dixon, Leslie Jansen (Andy), Nicholas Stoddard, Joseph Stoddard (Alyssa), Ben Worthley, Sarah Worthley, Andrew, Collin, Triston and Natalie Wood; great-grandson Bodie Stoddard. He is also survived by brothers, Lenny and Mike Pokora, their families, and a multitude of cousins.
Vito was always the North Star and guided light to his family. His love knew no boundaries or blood. Vito was exceptionally proud of “his brood” and had every right to be, as he was the inspiration for us all to live the best life possible and be the best people we could be. He will be missed by family who became friends… and friends who became family. This is Vito’s legacy.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to VNA Hospice House in Vero Beach.
A Celebration of Life is planned at a later date in Michigan.