Michele Vito Palazzo (Mike)
October 4, 1935- January 8, 2026
Michele Vito Palazzo, known affectionately to many as “Mike,” passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, at the age of 90, at his home in Covington, Washington.
Michele was born on October 4, 1935, in Castellaneta, a historic town in southern Italy’s Puglia region, known for its agriculture and the beautiful beaches along the Ionian Sea. The oldest of five children, he was raised on the family farm by his parents, Ettore and Lucia Palazzo. From a young age, Michele worked alongside his father and siblings cultivating olives and grapes, instilling in him a lifelong work ethic and deep respect for craftsmanship. In the late 1950s, he left home to serve in the Italian military in Northern Italy.
In the early 1960s, Michele joined the International Farm Youth Exchange (IFYE) program, created after World War II to promote global understanding through agricultural exchange. In 1964, he served as the IFYE Italian cultural ambassador to the United States, where he met his future wife, Marlene Somers, who was serving concurrently as the IFYE U.S. cultural ambassador to Italy.
What followed was love at first sight, and four years of heartfelt letters exchanged across the Atlantic. Michele and Marlene were married in Castellaneta in 1968 and later that year returned to the Seattle area to begin their life together and raise a family. Michele began working in the grocery business alongside his father-in-law, John Somers, owner of Johnny’s Food Centers.
In 1986, Michele’s professional path took a new direction when he opened his own gunsmithing business. He had learned the craft while apprenticing at the Beretta factory in Northern Italy during his military service. Bringing meticulous, old-world precision to his work, Michele earned a reputation as a master gunsmith, attracting clients from around the world. He continued working in his craft until late last year.
Words cannot fully capture the positive impact Michele had on the many lives he touched. Whether known as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, or loyal friend, he was admired for his humility, kindness, and compassion. His legacy as a loving family man and exceptional craftsman will be cherished and remembered by all who knew him.
Michele was preceded in death by his parents, Ettore and Lucia Palazzo, and his siblings, Antonio and Vincenza Palazzo. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Marlene Palazzo; his children, Lucia Palazzo Pontsler (husband Kevin) and Ettore Palazzo (wife Setareh); his grandchildren, Kaylene Collie, Luca Palazzo, and Elena Palazzo; and his siblings, Vito Palazzo and Luigi Palazzo.
The family suggests that contributions in Michele’s memory be made to EvergreenHealth Hospice, whose compassionate care supported him and his family at the end of his life.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Bonney Watson–Washington Memorial in SeaTac, Washington. Services will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the Chapel at Bonney Watson–Washington Memorial. Visitation from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., followed by a service from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
