January 30
January 30
Michael
You are sadly missed every minute ,hour, and day.
Love dad
You are sadly missed every minute ,hour, and day.
Love dad
Michael Green Fonte, Phd, 35, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 4, 2015.
Services will be held at St Elizabeth Catholic Church, 19 College Hill Road, Philippi, WV on Tuesday, December 8th, 11:00 AM, with visitation at Wright Funeral Home in Philippi on Monday, December 7th, 5:00 to 8:00 PM and Tuesday, December 8th, from 8:00 to 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Michael’s name be made to E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation at http://eowilsonfoundation.org/.
Tributes
Leave a tribute
January 30, 2022
January 30, 2022
Michael
Miss you, you are sadly missed.
I think of you all the time.
Love dad
Miss you, you are sadly missed.
I think of you all the time.
Love dad
December 4, 2020
December 4, 2020
It's been five years and it still feels like yesterday.
January 23, 2019
January 23, 2019
Michael Happy 39th Birthday on 1-30-19
Remember when you were born with a cracked collarbone and a black eye.
I remember walking out of the delivery room and telling the family I have a quarterback.
Michael you are sadly missed. Think of you all the time.
Love you
Dad
Remember when you were born with a cracked collarbone and a black eye.
I remember walking out of the delivery room and telling the family I have a quarterback.
Michael you are sadly missed. Think of you all the time.
Love you
Dad
September 17, 2017
September 17, 2017
Probably my favorite student at Fmt. Catholic. Whenever he was in search of a new topic, he would come to discuss it & see what books or information I could contribute He borrowed many of my books. He was a brilliant and wonderful human being.
March 1, 2017
March 1, 2017
Still in my thoughts Mike. It is our 4th annual film festival at the school this Friday I teach at and am ever-thankful for your support to help me in those early years. I remember our times at USC like yesterday. I can only imagine how lively the conversations and times would be these days.
December 5, 2016
December 5, 2016
It may have been a year, but the memories of the good times we had and our many conversation remain just as vivid today.
December 4, 2016
December 4, 2016
Dear Mike,
Hey best friend. I still think about you all the time. Thanks for changing my life.
Love always
Rajai
Hey best friend. I still think about you all the time. Thanks for changing my life.
Love always
Rajai
January 22, 2016
January 22, 2016
Pat, I am so very sorry for the loss of your son. May you and your family find peace over time.
December 15, 2015
December 15, 2015
Dear Patty,
The years have gone by so quickly but suddenly stopped when I read of the passing of your son. I am so, so sorry for your loss and my heartfelt condolances to you and your family. I have thought of you often over the years and really did not know where your life path had taken you. Contact me sometime when you feel like it as I would love to know how you are doing. My prayers for peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Sincerely, Sheila Fields Sleeth
The years have gone by so quickly but suddenly stopped when I read of the passing of your son. I am so, so sorry for your loss and my heartfelt condolances to you and your family. I have thought of you often over the years and really did not know where your life path had taken you. Contact me sometime when you feel like it as I would love to know how you are doing. My prayers for peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Sincerely, Sheila Fields Sleeth
December 12, 2015
December 12, 2015
Michael, as your aunt, I was there when you were born, celebrated your birth, as your dad exclaimed, he had a football player!! Even though we lived away, when we talked, it was just picking up where we left off! Our deep conversations and shared sense of humor always brought me joy and excitement to see your next success! I love you as my own and am so proud of you and thrilled to a part of your journey. Rest well, Michael, and know we will continue to share your spirit, celebrate your life and remember the impact you made in such a short time.
December 11, 2015
December 11, 2015
Pat - No words can adequately express the sympathy and empathy I feel for and with you. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. You are cared for.
December 11, 2015
December 11, 2015
Pat,
May the LORD bless and keep you and your family especially strong during this time. We will keep you in our prayers. Jana
May the LORD bless and keep you and your family especially strong during this time. We will keep you in our prayers. Jana
December 10, 2015
December 10, 2015
Pat,
My heart is with you and your family as your friend and a mother this is the hardest time for a parent. Your son was such an accomplished young man becuase he had his family to support him in his endeavors. That was the greatest gift you could give to him while he was here with us.
Much love to you.
My heart is with you and your family as your friend and a mother this is the hardest time for a parent. Your son was such an accomplished young man becuase he had his family to support him in his endeavors. That was the greatest gift you could give to him while he was here with us.
Much love to you.
December 9, 2015
December 9, 2015
Michael was the best son a father could have. He will be missed by me, his mother (Patty), and his sisters ( Catherine and Christina).
Michael rest well, we will see you again.
Love Dad
Michael rest well, we will see you again.
Love Dad
December 9, 2015
December 9, 2015
Pat,
On behalf of your colleagues in PSS, we want to express our deepest sympathy for your loss. As a precious member of our team, we will rally around you to provide the support you need in your time of bereavement. "Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal."
Heather Burton
On behalf of your colleagues in PSS, we want to express our deepest sympathy for your loss. As a precious member of our team, we will rally around you to provide the support you need in your time of bereavement. "Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal."
Heather Burton
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
PATTY...
Im so sorry for your loss...Im speechless...please know we are thinking and praying for you and the entire family...May God wrap his arms around yall and keep you and comfort you during this difficult time...
GOD BLESS..
Tamela Primavero Arbogast
Im so sorry for your loss...Im speechless...please know we are thinking and praying for you and the entire family...May God wrap his arms around yall and keep you and comfort you during this difficult time...
GOD BLESS..
Tamela Primavero Arbogast
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
Please accept our sincerest condolences on the passing of Michael. He certainly made an impact in the short time that he had. May your hearts be filled with the joy and memories he brought.
Dody & Bobby Russell
Dody & Bobby Russell
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
I was shocked to hear of your loss. Please know how sorry we are. May happy memories of Michael carry you through this sorrowful time.
-Judy & Bill Smith
-Judy & Bill Smith
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know our hearts are with you during this difficult time.
-Galen and Karen Scott
-Galen and Karen Scott
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
From those early days with your underground newspaper, to your inspirational interest in politics, to evolutionary biology, to your prescient assessment of Guatamalan political corruption, and love of Lynch and so much more, you were a great influence on my life and introduced me to so many ideas and subjects. Above all, you were a great friend. I'm so very, very sad that you're gone. I remember when you graduated high school, and we said our goodbyes, I thought to myself, "This won't be the last time I see Mike Fonte." And I was right. Two years later, we were at the same college. It's painful to imagine that, now, I can say those words no longer. But you will live on. In my memory, and all those who met and knew you. People often claim someone was "one of a kind," and it's largely nonsense. Most people fit into some mold or another, but you truly were different. I am certain I will never meet someone like you again, because how could I? The world truly suffers for your loss, my friend. Take care, and thanks for being a part of my life.
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
Dear Nick and family,
Please know that we are thinking of you and praying for you. Youve lost you son, grandson, and brother much too soon. We are out of town and in PA for Matts job. God bless all of you.
Much Love,
Matt & Tuesday Menas
Please know that we are thinking of you and praying for you. Youve lost you son, grandson, and brother much too soon. We are out of town and in PA for Matts job. God bless all of you.
Much Love,
Matt & Tuesday Menas
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
We are so sorry to hear of Michaels passing. Love and prayers to you and your entire family during this difficult time.
Monica & Duane Cochran
Monica & Duane Cochran
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
Nick, Pat, Cathy, and Christina, I am so shocked and saddened by your loss. Your kids were always so special to me. Michael and I had lots of long talks about his plans for his future. He was truly someone very special. I pray he is in peace in heaven. And I pray that God gives you the strength you need at this difficult time.
-Tina Hanna
-Tina Hanna
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
Patty so sorry this has happen you and your family our in thoughts.
-Moe Roy
-Moe Roy
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
We are shocked and so sorry to hear that Michael passed. His entire family and all his friends are in our hearts and prayers at this time.
-Gary and Janet Fitzgerald
-Gary and Janet Fitzgerald
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
Patty and family we are very sorry for your loss.
-Tom and Ricki (Gall) Skidmore
-Tom and Ricki (Gall) Skidmore
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
Pat, Nick, and Girls, we are so so sorry for your terrible loss. Michael was probably one of the most brilliant young men I have ever met. His bright light has gone out much too soon, but we must be comforted by all the wonderful work he left behind. He certainly left his mark on this world and how many of us can say that? God bless all of you and may His angels lead your beautiful boy into Heaven.
-Karen & Barry Van Hoose
-Karen & Barry Van Hoose
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
Patty,
I can only imagine the sorrow that you are experiencing. My deepest sympathy to everyone in your family.
-Nancy Bogert
I can only imagine the sorrow that you are experiencing. My deepest sympathy to everyone in your family.
-Nancy Bogert
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
We express our heartfelt condolences to Mikes family and loved ones. We will always remember him as a smart, generous, and reliable friend.
Charlie Wesley and Maria Daxenbichler
Charlie Wesley and Maria Daxenbichler
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
We are saddened to hear of Michaels passing. Please know that we are thinking of you.
-Jim and Cathy Salai
-Jim and Cathy Salai
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
We are Adam Zooks parents. It is difficult to find words that can express how saddened we were when Adam shared the news with us. We have many memories of the times that Mike was at our home. As one of Adams best friends, I had a special fondness for Mike and his exceptional abilities. I hope you can find comfort in your memories and the support of family and friends.
-Creig and Lisa Zook
-Creig and Lisa Zook
December 8, 2015
December 8, 2015
We are truly sorry for your loss. Our hearts go out to you all. You all are in our thoughts and prayer. May you find comfort in God during this time.
-Chrystal Bodkin Kittle
-Chrystal Bodkin Kittle
December 7, 2015
December 7, 2015
Dear Mike,
I don't know where to begin or how to explain how much you mean to me. Since we were roommates at USC to our Thanksgiving re-connections, to our hours and hours of Skype conversation about everything and nothing. No matter where I was in the world, you were reaching out to me, keeping our friendship up to date. Nobody could ever replace you as a best friend and as an intellectual inspiration. I can't really believe that you are gone. You've left a hole in my heart.
I love you my dearest friend. Best buddy. Best bro. Forever.
- Rajai Hakki
I don't know where to begin or how to explain how much you mean to me. Since we were roommates at USC to our Thanksgiving re-connections, to our hours and hours of Skype conversation about everything and nothing. No matter where I was in the world, you were reaching out to me, keeping our friendship up to date. Nobody could ever replace you as a best friend and as an intellectual inspiration. I can't really believe that you are gone. You've left a hole in my heart.
I love you my dearest friend. Best buddy. Best bro. Forever.
- Rajai Hakki
December 6, 2015
December 6, 2015
RIP Mike, as my son Rajai's best friend I always thought of you as my second son. Rajai so valued you and your friendship. It is indeed sad to have lost you! I deeply pray that your soul rest in peace.
December 5, 2015
December 5, 2015
I will miss you Michael. Rest in peace and I will see you in the future.
December 5, 2015
December 5, 2015
The light that burns twice as bright burns half as long, and you have burned so very very brightly, Mike. Look at you. You're the prodigal son.
Mike, you have changed not only the lives of those of us who are living but also those who will come after, read your work, and be inspired to pick up where you left off. You are deeply missed by all your brothers in California. We will always be waiting for your return.
Mike, you have changed not only the lives of those of us who are living but also those who will come after, read your work, and be inspired to pick up where you left off. You are deeply missed by all your brothers in California. We will always be waiting for your return.
December 5, 2015
December 5, 2015
Michael,
Words can't begin to explain the heartbreak we feel. You were taken from us too soon, but in your short time on earth, you accomplished a great deal. I will forever look up to you as my big brother and the smartest person I know.
I love you. Rest peacefully.
Words can't begin to explain the heartbreak we feel. You were taken from us too soon, but in your short time on earth, you accomplished a great deal. I will forever look up to you as my big brother and the smartest person I know.
I love you. Rest peacefully.
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
January 30
January 30
Michael
You are sadly missed every minute ,hour, and day.
Love dad
You are sadly missed every minute ,hour, and day.
Love dad
January 30, 2022
January 30, 2022
Michael
Miss you, you are sadly missed.
I think of you all the time.
Love dad
Miss you, you are sadly missed.
I think of you all the time.
Love dad
December 4, 2020
December 4, 2020
It's been five years and it still feels like yesterday.
Gallery
Mount Vernon
Patricia Springer accepts the doctoral hood for her son, Michael Fonte,w ho passed away days after his dissertation defense last December, at the Binghamton University Graduate School Commencement Ceremony.
FullSizeRender
P1030334
DSC00403
IMG_0754
IMG_0758
DSC00163
Recent stories
December 7, 2015
by Suren Seron
I really enjoyed helping Mike with his student films while we were at USC. We spent many hours shooting two of them together while I did some truly terrible and hilariously bad acting. I remember a very late night trip to the 24 hour "Rock'n'Roll" Ralph's to pick up some cocktail sauce, fresh fish, and many bags of ice for the filming of The Family Secret, best known by fans as "the film with the scary dolphin man." Mike really enjoyed developing that character. I already miss working with him creatively as we did on the Student Advisory Committee in high school, on United Leasers, and on projects throughout USC film school. Mike was one of the brightest students and his ability to translate and communicate themes and atmosphere was truly phenomenal. I already miss working with him on future projects we had already talked about doing when he returned to California after completing his PhD. There will never be another Mike Fonte.
Gentle and soft spoken
December 5, 2015
I met Michael, for the first time, when he came to hear Pete speak. He was so very thoughtful in his remarks. He was quiet but had such a spark of intellect when he spoke!
I do know that he thought the world of his two sisters! He spoke to Pete several times when he was "sleuthing" for the newspaper and spoke so lovingly of Catherine and Christina!
He will be missed in his field, by his friends and certainly by his family! I am so very sorry he is gone!