Michael DeFazio, 71, a lifelong resident of Sioux City passed away on Thursday April 5, 2007, at a Sioux City Hospital from a valiant 4 year battle with leukemia which devoured him.
Private memorial services for Michael will be held at a later date, there will be no visitation. Arrangements are under the direction of Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel.

Michael was born October 8, 1935, in Sioux City to Pasquale and Mary (Pironaggi) DeFazio. He graduated from Heelan High School and enlisted directly into the United States Navy. Michael served his country in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Salem during the Korean War.

Michael later returned home and married Rose Marie Bocian on July 8, 1972 in Sioux City. He worked at Johnson Bisquit for 13 years, then IPS for 25 years.

He had a great love for the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and gardening. Michael was a devoted husband and father and was dearly loved by his family. He was easygoing, kind hearted, and gentle. He had a great knack for giving advice. Michaels sense of humor was contagious. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone.

He loved spending time with his family and his grandchildren and great grandchildren brought him much joy. Michael will be greatly missed by all those whos lives he touched and never forgotten. If you met him you couldnt help but like him, he always had a smile, even through all his suffering.

He is survived by 4 daughters and 5 sons: Laurie & John Bozzi of MA, Gina & Normand Benyue of MA, Kelly Schroeder of Sioux City, Meri & Paul Kehoe of MA, Perry & Denise DeFazio of MA, Kenny & Yvonne DeFazio of MA, Mike & Nancy Schwinck of CA, Rick Schwinck of Sioux City, and Pete DeFazio of Sioux City. 20 grandchildren and 11 great great grandchildren. 1 brother and 9 sisters. He was preceded in death by his parents.