Michael D. Cipolla

Michael D. Cipolla, 42, was taken suddenly from his loved ones following a brief illness on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, in Syracuse, New York. Born and raised in Binghamton, New York, he most recently resided in Syracuse.

Michael was a man of deep wisdom and steadfast faith. He considered himself a “Soldier of Light,” devoted to truth and guided by his belief that God would be proudly awaiting him upon his passing. He longed to see a world free of corruption and filled once more with beauty and creation. To that end, he dedicated his life to creating—through art, music, writing, and, above all, loving others.

Above everything else, Michael loved his children more than anything in this world. They were the center of his life and his greatest joy.

He is survived by his children, Julian (18), Gianni (17), and Isabella (3); his mother and stepfather, Karen and Ken Bidwell; his father, Michael (Dana) Cipolla; his sister, Christen (James) Grayson, and her children—his beloved nieces and nephews, Kiernan and fiancée Esther, Kiana, TJ, Kehlani, and Ezekiel; his step-siblings, Kenneth (Nikki) Bidwell, Jr., and Jennifer (Tim) Bunzy, and their children; his aunt, Lisa Sturdevant, who held a very special place in his life; his aunts, Lee Craig, Sandi Hockey, Linda Strachen, and Becky (Brian) Riegal; his uncle, Geoff Cipolla; and many cousins. He is also survived by his grandmother, Linda Cipolla; Megan Cox, mother of his sons; and Shannon Nez, mother of his daughter. Predeceased by his “Papa,” Vernon B. Sturdevant; his grandfather, Michael Cipolla, Sr.; his nephew, Kai Grayson; and his very special great-aunt, Marion “Mame” McDevitt.

The family will receive friends at the Hopler & Eschbach Funeral Home from 11:00am-1:00pm Saturday February 14th with a memorial service being held at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the family’s GoFundMe at https://gofund.me/46a1cfa20, with all proceeds to be placed in trust for the future of Michael’s three children.

“Do not mourn for me, for I am free, resting in the presence of my Lord.”

May Michael rest in peace, and may his children always feel his love guiding them, surrounding them, and watching over them.

Following the visitation service, please join the family at Salvation Temple Church,
80 Main St. Binghamton, NY to enjoy some food, share some stories, and listen to some of Mike's amazing music.

GoFundMe at https://gofund.me/46a1cfa20

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