Michael Joseph Macchiarella lovingly known as Mike, 50, of Barnegat, died on Sunday, October 25, 2026.

Mike was born in Brooklyn, NY, and raised in Middletown, NJ. After graduating from Middletown High School North, he went on to attend Rider University before securing a management position in the concession industry at the University of Virginia. Mike lived in Virginia before eventually relocating home to NJ to be with his family, returning to the place where he could be close to those he loved. He will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, love of adventure, appreciation for good food, witty sense of humor and the special bond he shared with his family.

Before becoming ill, Mike enjoyed living life to the fullest. He loved fishing, crabbing, playing paintball and snowboarding and had aspired to become a chef. Mike achieved his 2nd level brown belt in taekwondo and loved to play soccer and was an amazing goalie. He was a licensed MOSA referee and referred games alongside with his father. These hobbies and interests reflected his adventurous side and his enjoyment of being outdoors and experiencing life.

Above all, Mike was a devoted son and a cherished brother. His family held a special place in his heart, and the bonds they shared will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

One of the most special relationships in Mike’s life was the incredible bond he shared with his beloved late dog Baily. Their connection was a testament to Mike’s capacity for love and loyalty. The memories of the companionship they shared will always be treasured.

Mike’s illness sadly changed the path he had envisioned for himself, but it does not define his life. Mike fought a courageous battle for over 20 years, more than most people could ever imagine enduring. He will be remembered for his strength, and his unyielding courage and perseverance to survive under unimaginable circumstances. Considering all of this, he somehow maintained his amazing sense of humor and compassion for others often saying “Somebody else has it worse than me” which was hard to imagine. Mike never had a harsh word for anybody and was a true gentleman.

Though he is no longer physically here, the memories he created and the love he gave will live on in the hearts of his family forever. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

He is survived by his parents Doreen and Isidoro Macchiarella, and his sisters Roseann Brown, Michele Milia, and Doreen Colorio.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Friday, October 30 from 3pm - 7pm at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 South Holmdel Road, Holmdel NJ. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Saturday, October 31 at 11am at St. Gabriel’s Roman Catholic Church, 100 N Main St, Marlboro Township, NJ. Inurnment will be held at a later date at St. Gabriel’s Cemetery & Mausoleum, Marlboro NJ.

In lieu of traditional remembrances, Michael’s family asks with gratitude that donations in his memory be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital (www.stjude.org), or the ASPCA (www.aspca.org).

For messages of condolence, or to share a favorite memory of Michael, please visit his page of tribute at www.HolmdelFuneralHome.com