This amazing photo was taken by Gina Halferty and published by the Tri-Valley Herald

MICHAEL WILLIAM UCCI (OBITUARY)

On January 27, 2007, Michael William Ucci, age 17, died at the scene of an automobile accident in front of West High in Tracy, California. At the time of his death, he was a junior at West High and lived with his parents, Jill and Ken Ucci, and sister, Marie Ucci, in Tracy. Marie was seriously injured in the same accident and remains hospitalized.

Michael was born in Mountain View, California and during his lifetime resided in Morgan Hill and Tracy. He had attended Poet-Christian and Wanda Hirsch Elementary Schools, Williams Middle School and was a junior at Merrill F. West High School.

He was a bright young man with a promising future, held strong family values, had an exceptionally close relationship with his sister Marie, was athletic, a leader and loved by many. The outpouring community generosity and expression of what Michael meant to so many has been overwhelming and heartwarming to his family.

When he was a sophomore, Michael traveled to Holland with People to People International, where he played basketball on the USA team. Because of his academic and leadership skills, he was recently invited to be an ambassador to a National Leadership Conference in Washington DC to observe our federal government in action. He would have been most proud of this achievement and would have loved the journey. He was preparing for the SAT and very much looking forward to college and all the future might hold.

He played basketball through CYO and in high school. He was a member of FBLA, Future Business Leaders of America, and loved working out at the gym and going to Starbuck’s with his friends. He and Marie were more than siblings; they were best friends and constant companions. The affect he had on others is most evident through the many, many expressions on the internet – his SMILE was constant and contagious. He was a good friend to many. His father noted he was a “pied piper” of sorts – a happy individual who loved listening to and walking with others and led many. His mother believes he has a true gift in their lives.

Michael had a large family that was most important to him. From his grandparents to the youngest cousins, he embraced them all and loved the family traditions. One of his favorite traditions was vacationing every summer with his cousins at Sveadal. In addition to his parents, Jill and Ken Ucci and his sister, Marie, he is survived by his grandmother, Donna Manfre’ of Watsonville, numerous aunts and uncles and many, many cousins – to whom he was very close. Predeceased grandparents include Sebastian and Mary Ucci who were from San Jose and Bill Manfre’ of Watsonville. His life will be celebrated in Tracy and he will lay in rest in Watsonville.

Contributions in memory of Michael

It is preferred that contributions in the name of Michael be directed to:

West High Leadership Class 1775 W. Lowell Avenue Tracy, CA 95376

or to:

St. Bernard’s New Church 163 W. Eaton Avenue Tracy, CA 95376

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Saturday, February 3, 2007

From Angel Custodio

Although I haven't known Mike as long as most of the people on here.. Mike was truly a blessing to my life. The first time I met him.. I knew i'd never forget him because of his remarkable trademark smile. The smile that could shine on anyone's bad day. Seeing him once or twice, or just random times around, there was never a day where I wouldn't see him happy. Me & Mike had a few inside jokes here and there, although it wasn't much, it was still something I could cherish for a lifetime. I knew that it was something that only him & I could laugh at and no one else would understand.. Mike was a wonderful young man and no one on this earth, could ever replace the happiness that he's brought into each of our lives.. Especially mine.

Even though we are left here, with the wonders of why his time had to end so soon.. We have to be strong, and know that everything happens for a reason. We should all be living testimonies for Mike. Pass on his wonderful attitude to the rest of the world. Even though he doesn't remain here w/ us, look deep into your heart, and he'll be there. God gave him talents, faith, and the attitude that deserved to be shared with all the people that surrounded him. I believe, that his mission was accomplished. There would've been no better time to take him. God brings people into this world, and he brings them out.. Most, at unexspected times. But at these times, is when our faith is tested the most. We must remain courageous, and bring joy to the world, just as Mike did for us..

Waking up every morning.. Being reminded of the pain that's been set upon me.. Makes me not wanna wake up at all. But knowing the fact that he's in a better place, gives me the strength to get up and face the world, just as he would face it too. We are all left bewildered to such things that happen to such great people.. But EVERYTHING happens for a reason. I know for a fact, that Mike was a reason were all living.. To his family and close friends, My prayers are with you all. He touched all of our lives, and that gorgeous smile will leave an imprint on my heart forever. To Bret, Marie, & Justin, you are courageous people, and living testimonies.. You are here for a reason, and may God continue to bless you..

Thank you Mike, for the joy, cheer, and comfort you've brought to my life. I wish God would've given me the time to know you more, but I am so thankful for the time that he did give me. I wouldn't trade it for the world..

God bless you all,
Angel Custodio

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