Mike Big Dawg Mandato, age 49, of Willard, Ohio, passed away on Wednesday, August 9, 2023. He was born on April 8, 1974 in Amherst, Ohio to Michael J. and Patricia (Vogelsong) Mandato. Mike was a Special Finance Manager for Sharpnack Chevrolet and most recently of Route 30 Harley-Davidson. He enjoyed the Cleveland Browns, collecting football cards, circle track racing, and most of all he loved his dogs, friends, and family.
He is survived by his wife, Leia (Cogar) Mandato whom he married on May 6, 2000 of Willard, Ohio; mother, Patricia (Vogelsong) Mandato of Willard, Ohio; sister, Pamela (Jeff) Kayden of Missouri; and nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his father, Michael J. Mandato.
Mike’s Memorial Service will be at Lakeview United Methodist Church, 6 South St., Berlin Heights, Ohio 44814 on August 26, 2023 at 11:00 AM. That same evening at 6:00 PM there will be a Celebration of Life at 2438 Collins Road, Collins, Ohio 44857. Secor Funeral Home in Willard, Ohio is assisting Mikes family in funeral arrangements. Online condolences may be made to his family by visiting www.secorfuneralhomes.com.
Condolences
Holly Ann - Aug 25, 2023
First to Leia, his mom, and sister I want to say we are so sorry for your loss and I hope the memories you have last a lifetime and can help bring you all some comfort. Mike, "Boss" as we called him will certainly be missed. He was someone who made you feel like you've known each other for years from the time you first met and even when you've never met in person. He loved his family, dogs and friends hard and was never to big to express that. His motivation and intelligence for making, investing and saving money was inspirational all things considered. Boss gave everyone a shot, saw the best in everyone and shared his knowledge freely. Mike, Boss, Mr Mandato, you will certainly be missed. Knowing you are now comfortable and at peace makes me happy for you. Rest in peace now in the arms of angels and tell them to skip your wings, you want running legs! On behalf of everyone at No-nonsense
Holly Ann - Aug 25, 2023
First to Leia, his mom, and sister I want to say we are so sorry for your loss and I hope the memories you have last a lifetime and can help bring you all some comfort. Mike, "Boss" as we called him will certainly be missed. He was someone who made you feel like you've known each other for years from the time you first met and even when you've never met in person. He loved his family, dogs and friends hard and was never to big to express that. His motivation and intelligence for making, investing and saving money was inspirational all things considered. Boss gave everyone a shot, saw the best in everyone and shared his knowledge freely. Mike, Boss, Mr Mandato, you will certainly be missed. Knowing you are now comfortable and at peace makes me happy for you. Rest in peace now in the arms of angels and tell them to skip your wings, you want running legs! On behalf of everyone at No-nonsense
Laura A Frye - Aug 17, 2023
Fly high Big Dawg! You were like a brother to me and uncle to the kids. We will always love and miss you. Leia & family my heart is breaking. I'm here for you all. Sending my deepest condolences. You all are in my loving thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May God bless and keep you though it.
Amanda Crates-Bayliff - Aug 15, 2023
Leia, Joe and I are thinking of you at this time. We really enjoyed working with him at the dealership.
Seth - Aug 13, 2023
I’m am sorry to hear about Mike’s passing. He was my first mentor when I got to Ohio and without Big Dawg I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today doing what I’m doing. I will never forget all the great times we had at the credit center, fantasy leagues, and garage sessions! My prayers and condolences are with all of his friends and family! Rest easy Big Dawg until we meet again.
Brian Bevier - Aug 12, 2023
Leia, I am truly sad to see that Mike has passed. Had some great times at Chuck and Connie's. My condolences to you and all others that were his extended family.
Ron Horvath - Aug 12, 2023
I met Mike through brother I think he was around 9 or 10 years old. He started hanging around me more and then he was like another little brother. As we got older we bother did everything together. Worked on cars got in to trouble but we always were there for each other. I know Mike had health issues but that didn't stop him. What ever he put his mind to he did it. He had such an infectious laugh. I will miss him and cherish the times together my brother. We played a song for the loved ones we lost and now I can't believe I have to play it for you. ( Cole Swindel.. you should be here) R.I.P my Brother. I love you and I will always think of you.
Meag Ousley - Aug 11, 2023
Leia- so sorry to hear about Mike. Sending you love and prayers
Pamela Kayden - Aug 11, 2023
I just wanted to send my love and prays to My Mother and Sister-in-law at this time of loss, share a few words about my brother. I am deeply saddened by the passing of my beloved little (younger) brother Michael, who had an extraordinary zest for life and many passions. His ability to find joy in the simplest of things, whether it was cheering for his team or attending a race, was a true inspiration. Mike's love for life extended to these passions, and he pursued them with the same vigor and spirit that he approached everything else. He didn’t let his limitations in life stop him from his strong ambition. My brother was one of the smartest and passionate people I have ever known and his many successes in all of his avenues in life is proof. His spirit was a reminder to us all to find joy in our interests and to wholeheartedly embrace the things that make us come alive and peruse what you are passionate about! While Michael may no longer be with us in person, his Big spirit will forever live on in the cherished memories we shared together. In his honor, let us strive to approach life with the same enthusiasm and appreciation that Mike exemplified so beautifully. I will so miss our talks and sometimes our debates (LOL) You will always be in my heart and always be my little brother.
Kelly Edwards - Aug 11, 2023
So very sorry for your loss leia my prayers are with you!
Kevin & Jari Amburgey - Aug 11, 2023
To Mike's family...Mike was a great guy! Always helped us when we needed it! Your family will be in our thoughts and prayers. Sorry for your loss.
Bob and Joyce Sage - Aug 11, 2023
Sorry for your loss, hugs and prayers for you Leah and Mike's Family. May God comfort you.