Northfield, MA – Michael DiBari , 81, of Northfield, passed on Sunday January 4, 2026 having spent the day surrounded by his family.
Michael was born July 27, 1944 to Michele and Maria (Gesualdi) in Providence, RI. Michael attended East Providence High School, graduating in 1962. He joined the Air Force in August of that same year and received his honorable discharge in May 1966. After his tour in the military, he attended and graduated from UMASS Amherst with a Bachelor degree in Psychology and went on to get his Master’s at that same institution . He married his wife Laura (Proulx) in Notre Dame Church in Southbridge, MA on July 20, 1968.
After his honorable discharge from military service, Michael’s work experience began with a short tenure at IBM. Although brief, it set into motion his affinity for technology. It was his deeper desire to serve others that moved him to his life-long love affair with education. He started his journey working in a special education program in Northampton, which led him into a graduate community psychology program at UMass. A chance clinical placement in the Erving Elementary School propelled him into teaching. He did so in stunning fashion! Drawing on his intellect, empathy for his students, creativity and boundless work ethic, he created a classroom environment in which his students thrived. Along with the school administration and his fellow teachers, Erving ES became a model of educational excellence. It was the happiest and most meaningful place to be as a student and as a teacher. When he left teaching, because of external demands, he left part of himself at that school.
Michael was briefly employed as Production Control Manager at the Erving Paper Mill. He left that position when offered a one-year interim principalship at the Shutesbury Elementary School. During his principalship, he realized that technology was to have a major influence in our public and private school systems.
Michael registered his business, Systems, Software, Support, Inc., during that year and moved on to become a highly successful business entrepreneur, blending his teaching background with educational technology. Michael’s personality drove him to excel in whatever he chose to do. Architects who sought Michael out for technology design recognized his commitment to each project, each owner and each vendor. He was tireless in his commitment to provide the best possible product to ensure a successful project. He continued in that endeavor into his 80’s along with his son, Aaron. A true father/son partnership.
Most important in Michael’s life was his family. Michael was dedicated to providing for both his immediate and his extended family. Building traditions, celebrating events and honoring accomplishments kept the DiBari home filled with energy and life. Food was the center of every gathering. Everyone was welcome at the table.
In spite of long working hours, Michael managed to find time to read 2 or 3 novels a week, maintain a meticulously groomed property filled with flowers and put on an apron to prepare meals like “mama used to make”.
Michael leaves behind his wife Laura; a son, Aaron and his wife Jo-Ann (Hegy) DiBari, one very special grandson, Massimo; a daughter, Jeanine Rodriguez and “his girls”, Rosalie and Maribel along with several nieces and nephews. His parents and sisters pre-deceased him.
Michael’s presence in our lives will be a major loss but his love and spirit will forever be with us.
There will be calling hours from 10:00 to 12:00 on Monday, January 19 , at the Kidder Funeral Home, 1 Parker Ave., Northfield, Mass. Funeral services will be at 12:00 following the calling hours at the funeral home.
Kidder Funeral Home , 1 Parker Ave., Northfield, Mass is assisting the family with arrangements.
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