Michael A. Barletta, pharmacology professor, veteran and family man, dies at 84
Maria Gomez has over 15 years of experience in local journalism, having previously served as the editor for the Hempstead Herald and a contributor to Newsday. She graduated from Long Island University with a degree in Journalism and has a passion for engaging with the diverse voices of Garden City. Maria believes that community journalism plays a crucial role in shaping local identity.
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Michael Anthony Barletta, of Garden City, died Oct. 24 at his second home in Kissimmee, Florida. He was 84. Born July 15, 1942, in Brooklyn to the late Jeanette (née Picariello) and Natale Barletta, Michael grew up in a large Italian-American family alongside his twin sister, Mildred, and older brother, Francis. His calling came early, working as a delivery boy for Fauci’s Pharmacy in Brooklyn. There, he became acquainted with future National Institutes of Health Director Dr. Anthony Fauci and became close with Fauci’s father, the late Stephen Fauci, an early mentor. Michael studied pharmacy at St. John’s University, where he met Helen J. Barletta (née Stubel), the love of his life. Michael was told Helen already had a date to an upcoming dance, but asked her to it anyway. She said yes, and the rest is history. Both became pharmacists, and Michael earned a Ph.D. They were days away from celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. A Vietnam-era veteran, Michael served in the U.