The Lehigh Valley community is mourning the sudden loss of Michael Papandrea, a cherished local businessman and former longtime employee of 3rd & Ferry Fish Market. Known affectionately as “Mozzarella Di Michael,” Papandrea touched many lives through his passion for Italian cuisine and his famed mozzarella-making parties.
3rd & Ferry Fish Market, where Papandrea worked for years, shared a heartfelt tribute, saying, “Our restaurant family is heartbroken today as we learned of the sudden passing in his sleep of former longtime employee and local businessman, Michael Papandrea. Michael’s heart and personality were both bigger than we can quantify, and his absence will leave a void in our worlds. He was especially close with many of our staff members, and his family is a friend of ours, as well. Our hearts go out to all who knew him, because to know him was to love him.”
Papandrea was not only a beloved employee but also the owner of Mozzarella Di Michael, a business that brought the joy of fresh mozzarella-making to people’s homes. His events became legendary, offering a feast of Italian delicacies and a warm, engaging experience. Friends and customers alike admired his enthusiasm, skill, and dedication to sharing his culinary heritage.
Chris Tina, a close friend, expressed her grief, saying, “I am truly devastated to learn of the sudden passing of Michael Papandrea. Many of you knew him as Mozzarella Di Michael. If you ever had the pleasure of hosting one of his parties, you were treated to a huge assortment of Italian goods, including his family’s Balsamic Vinegar, which he was so proud of. You also got to experience his larger-than-life personality and his beautiful smile.”
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Papandrea was a proud resident of Easton, Pennsylvania, and a well-known figure in the Lehigh Valley. His charm, generosity, and passion for food brought joy to many, making his loss deeply felt across the community.
| Full Name | Michael Papandrea |
| Nickname | Mozzarella Di Michael |
| Residence | Easton, Pennsylvania |
| Hometown | Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania |
| Occupation | Businessman, Owner of Mozzarella Di Michael |
| Former Workplace | 3rd & Ferry Fish Market |
| Legacy | Mozzarella-making parties, passion for Italian cuisine, community engagement |
Lehigh Valley Medium also shared a tribute, recalling their shared connection to the game show “The Price is Right.” “I’m so saddened to hear of the passing of such a creative and fun friend. Michael Papandrea is and will always be my ‘The Price is Right’ twin, as we were both on the show at different times and always shared a good time and fun stories. You were called down to Contestant’s Row for the final time—tell Bob Barker hi for us.”
Local businesses also expressed their sorrow, including Pat’s Pizza and Bistro Bethlehem. “We were heartbroken to hear about the passing of Michael Papandrea. Michael was a joyful, generous soul with a passion for food, family, and bringing people together. His mozzarella-making parties were legendary, but it was his warmth and smile that made them unforgettable.”
Papandrea’s family is currently reaching out to those who had booked mozzarella parties with him to arrange refunds. They have requested patience as they navigate their grief and handle logistical matters. Anyone needing to confirm a party date or deposit refund is asked to contact Matt Becker at mibecker000@gmail.com.
The Lehigh Valley has lost a true gem, but Michael Papandrea’s legacy of food, family, and friendship will live on. His infectious spirit, love for his community, and culinary expertise will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Mike.
1. Who was Michael Papandrea?
Michael Papandrea was a local businessman from Easton, Pennsylvania, known for his mozzarella-making business, Mozzarella Di Michael. He was also a former longtime employee of 3rd & Ferry Fish Market.
2. What was Mozzarella Di Michael?
Mozzarella Di Michael was a business owned by Michael Papandrea, where he hosted interactive mozzarella-making parties, sharing his love for Italian cuisine with the community.
3. How did Michael Papandrea pass away?
Michael Papandrea passed away suddenly in his sleep. His passing has left a deep void in the Lehigh Valley community.
4. How are customers affected by his passing?
Customers who had booked mozzarella parties with Michael are being contacted by his family regarding refunds. They are advised to reach out to Matt Becker at mibecker000@gmail.com for confirmation of party dates and deposit amounts.