Patsy (Pasquale) Albert Pascaretti, fondly known as "Mr. P," passed away on June 6, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on August 10, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan to Frank and Geraldine Pascaretti.
Patsy was a man of many passions - foremost among them were music and education. He earned both a Bachelor of Science in Education degree and Master of Music degree from Wayne State University, setting him up to lead a life dedicated to these two pursuits.
He served as the Choir Master and Cantor at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church and prior to that at St. Edmund's Catholic Church. In addition to his religious work, he was an instructor of Keyboard Harmony for Macomb Community College and the Director of the Metropolitan Detroit Chorale since 1975.
Under his direction, the chorale performed stunning masterworks such as Vivaldi's Gloria, Bach's Magnificat, Mendelssohn's Elijah, Mozart's Requiem, and Rutter's Requiem and Gloria, Mass of the Children. Mr. Pascaretti led members on three occasions to New York to sing in Carnegie Hall under the direction of John Rutter - on the third occasion they performed Handel's Messiah conducted by Mr. Rutter himself. MDC recently appeared in New York City again to perform Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 in D Minor as part of the DCINY chorus at Carnegie Hall.
Mr. Pascaretti dedicated his life to education; he retired as a Vocal Music & Humanities teacher and Music Department Chair from Fraser High School after teaching for 43 years leading his choirs to numerous national awards. His impact on countless students through these years is immeasurable particularly with his charming sayings “Follow your bliss” and “I love you more than my shoes."
Mr. Pascaretti was the key figure in launching the Performance Arts Academy at Fraser High School, which is his lasting legacy.
Patsy Albert Pascaretti is survived by his brother, John Pascaretti (Shirley), his children - Frank Pascaretti (Melissa), Allison Pascaretti and Mariano Pascaretti. He was a loving grandfather to Matthew, Bella, and Tyler. Additionally, he leaves behind nephews Michael (Lisa) and Christopher (Andrea) Pascaretti, as well as great niece and nephew Stella and Nino Pascaretti.
A Memorial Gathering will take place on Monday, June 19th from 1-4 pm. A Funeral with Holy Communion will be held on that same day at 4 pm at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Roseville.
The Funeral and Holy Communion service will also be streamed live on Facebook at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/triumphant.crosslutheranchurch
To loved ones and friends, Mr. Pascaretti was more than just a talented musician and an esteemed educator - he was a man devoted to enriching the lives of those around him. His philosophy of "Educate all kids" and "Music for everyone" was truly a reflection of God's love for us all.
Patsy (Pasquale) Albert Pascaretti will be dearly missed by his family, friends, colleagues, students and anyone whose life he touched over his lifetime. Mr. P. has taken his final bow. Bravo. Maestro!
Monday, June 19, 2023
1:00 - 4:00 pm (Eastern time)
St. Mark Lutheran Church
A Funeral Service with Communion will immediately follow the Memorial Gathering
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