Michael P. Varrato Jr

61, of Cranston, passed away peacefully Wednesday June 25, 2014 surrounded by his family. He was the beloved husband of 33 years to Sandra (Bancker) Varrato. Born in Providence he was the son of Dolores (D'Ercole) Varrato of Cranston and the late Michael P. Varrato Sr. He was the devoted father of Michael P. Varrato III and his wife Natalie of NJ; brother of Linda Damiani of South Kingstown, Lori Varrato and Lisa Moynihan both of Cranston and the late Paula Gansert, he is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Michael was dedicated to sportsmanship, integrity, and his family. He took pride in his construction and pool work and went up and beyond for all that were in his life. Mike was well respected throughout Cranston, not only for his dedication to his friends and family but also because of what he stood for. Mike was a prideful man, who loved to be outdoors and in his garden. He was an avid fisherman and hunter. Mike was his son's biggest support and best friend. Mike did things whole- heartedly which is what made him so successful in all areas of his life. For CWLL, it's the end of an era. "He is the face and the foundation of the league".
He first got involved in Cranston Western Little League (CWLL) when his son was 6 in 1987, many of his sons friends were guided and cared for by Mike while having him as a coach. He managed various 10 and 12 year old All Star teams from 1993-2002 and in 1996 advanced the 12 year old all-stars to the Little League World Series and eventually the National Championship, which remains one of the greatest sports moments in Cranston history. "Because of his success and his personality, it bred more success" -The Cranston Herald
He then served as President of the league from 2003-2012. During this time, he prided himself in the development of a Challenger Division League, which mentally and physically challenged children were partnered with CWLL. In 2008 the City of Cranston dedicated Briggs Field in Mike's name for all his years of dedication and service. In 2010, his leadership as president brought the inaugural 9-10 year old Little League Regional Tournament to Cranston, where he then spearheaded multiple improvements such as stadium style seating and a field house behind home plate. He coached and organized the Statewide Little Rhody Fall Ball league for 20 years. Due to his leadership the league earned several district and state championships. His beloved wife Sandy was by his side all those years running the concession stand, which was then named after her. "He is not replaceable. He is Cranston Western Little League," which was stated by the newly appointed president of the league, Steve Piscopiello.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday at 10am in Immaculate Conception Church Oaklawn Avenue, Cranston. Burial will be private. Visiting Hours Sunday 4-8pm at the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute PO Box 849168 Boston, MA 02284. www.dana-farber.org/gift.

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