After a valiant and courageous 3 year battle with lung cancer, Michael P. Ristagno, 74, of Pittston, passed away peacefully on Thursday evening, December 27, 2018, at home, surrounded by his loving family.

A lifelong resident of Pittston, he was a son of the late Cataldo and Grace Callari Ristagno. Michael was educated in the Pittston schools and touched so many lives with his genuineness and kind heart and he will be forever missed. Prior to his retirement, he was employed part time by the Luzerne County Transportation Authority for 8 years. He and his devoted wife, Dorothy Kovaleski Ristagno, celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary on November 20, 2018 and are members of St. Joseph Marello Parish, Pittston.

In addition to his wife, he is also survived by his children, Anita Fino and husband, Patrick, Pittston; Michael and wife, Antonia, Scottsdale, AZ and Kimberly McEvoy and husband, James, Nashville, TN; six grandchildren, Sarah, Madison and Aidan McEvoy and Michael III, Gianni and Niko Ristagno; great granddaughter, Everly Michaela McEvoy; brother, Sam Ristagno and companion, Mary Havener, Luzerne; sister, Catherine Dominick and husband, Ross, Pittston; his grand puppies Katie & Seanna; numerous nieces and nephews and an ocean of friends.

Michael was preceded in death by his grandson, Michael James McEvoy.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. James Bruno of Pittston and Dr. Bruce Saidman of Kingston for their compassionate care given to Michael during his illness.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 9:30 AM on Monday, December 31, 2018, in St. Joseph Marello Parish 237 William St., Pittston. Relatives and friends may pay their respects from 8:30 AM until the time of the mass, at the church. Interment will be at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Baloga Funeral Home, Inc. 1201 Main Street Pittston (Port Griffith)