Michel J. Fidel Sr. Obituary
Michel J. Fidel, Sr. Michel passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 5, 2012. Born August 22, 1923 in Roumie, Lebanon, Michel came to the United States in 1925. He was a life-long resident of Santa Fe, New Mexico and graduate of St. Michael’s High School. After college and service in the military, Michel returned home to work in the family business and retired from JCPenny. Michel loved his community. He was an active member of the Lions Club for over 50 years and devoted many years to volunteering with the St. Vincent Auxiliary, Villa Therese Catholic Clinic, and the St. Michael’s Foundation. Michel is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Rose Fidel; brother Victor; Sister Rene; brother-in-laws Fred Abouselmen, Albert Najjar, and M.K. Hage; sister-in-laws Jeannette Fidel, Lee Jamail, and Nettie Hage; and niece Norma Najjar. He leaves behind many loved ones who grieve his passing: his wife of 64 years, Christine Hage Fidel; children Michel and his wife Julie, Lynn and her husband Greg, and Todd and his wife Susan; grandchildren Tony (Sheira), Clint (Elani), Nicole, Karl, Caitlyn, and Doreen; great-grandchildren Cal, Cali, and Ryder; sisters Rose Fidel, Mae Najjar, and Margaret Absoulemen; brother Edward Fidel; brother-in-law Joe Jamail; sister-in-law Dolores Fidel; and many nieces and nephews. Michel’s family and friends were blessed by his presence. He will be missed. Rosary will be recited Monday, January 9, 2012 at 7 p.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis Assisi. The mass will be celebrated Tuesday, January 10, 2012 at 10 a.m. at the Basilica Cathedral of St. Francis Assisi. Interment will follow at the Santa Fe National Cemetery with full military honors. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Michel J. Fidel Scholarship Fund at St. Michael’s High School Foundation, Villa Therese Catholic Clinic, or Capitol City Lions. Arrangements are under the direction of Berardinelli Family Funeral Service 1399 Luisa Street, Santa Fe, NM 87505 (505)984-8600 Please sign our guestbook for the family at: www.berardinellifuneralhome.com