Michael C. Ferraro Sr.

 

Michael was born August 22, 1925, in Pittsburgh, the son of Camillo and Angeline Fera Ferraro. 

 

He was a graduate of South Hills High School.  After graduating in 1943 Michael enlisted in the U.S. Navy and entered WWII becoming a Naval Corpsman attached to the Marines.  After receiving pharmacist mate training, he was sent to the South Pacific where he served in the Philippines, Solomon Islands, Saipan Island, Peleliu and other strategic areas of the South Pacific.  While he was being transported from Saipan to the Solomon Islands his ship was torpedoed and sank.  Michael was set adrift in a raft with six other shipmates for 21 days before being rescued by a destroyer escort.

 

After the war, Michael received his bachelor's degree in music education from Duquesne University and taught music in Bald Eagle High School, Mohawk School District where he wrote the Alma-Mater, and retired from New Castle High School as Director of Bands.

 

As a professional Musician he played with the Pittsburgh Symphony, Wheeling Symphany and Youngstown Symphany as First Chair Flutist.  He also directed the Youngstown Community Concert Band.

 

Michael served as Mayor of Bessemer for 8 years and Councilman of Bessemer for 20 years.  While serving he was instrumental in the building of the Bessemer Park.

 

Michael was strong in his faith and was a member of St Anthony (Holy Spirit Church) where he was Choir Director, helped build the Gazebo and built the Alter for the Chapel in the church.

 

He was a member of the American Legion, VFW, 4th Degree Knights of Columbus and served as past president of the Rotary Club of Bessemer.. He was also a member of the New Castle Honor Guard .