Age 81, passed away unexpectedly of cardiac arrest on August 28, 2025 while walking his beloved dog, Pepper. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Susan Attia; his brother, Ragaie Ateya (Madline); sisters-in-law, Nadia Ateya & Susan Ateya; countless nieces, nephews, great-nieces & nephews, & great-great-nieces & nephews.

Michel was born in Cairo, Egypt, the sixth of seven children, and is predeceased by his parents, Father Ibrahim Ateya and Loleya Atallah; his sisters, Afifa, Nadia, and Fayza; brothers, Fayez and Tony.

After studying geography at Ain Shams University in Cairo, he then joined the military and served as a Lieutenant. His service covered many tumultuous years in Egypt and was spent primarily in the desert, training and commanding troops. He suffered injuries, including permanent loss of hearing in his left ear.

Persuaded by his brother Tony, who had already established himself in Rochester, NY, Michel immigrated to the U.S. in 1974. Tony and his wife Sue took him under their wing and helped him in ways he never forgot. Michel’s love and gratitude towards them was boundless.

A teacher by training, he took whatever menial jobs he could get as he polished his English and acclimated to the culture. He often worked three jobs at once, teaching Arabic, establishing a certified translation business, and holding down day jobs at various companies. Eventually, Michel was hired by a non-profit organization called Pathstone where they soon learned they could rely on him to tackle any position and do it well. He made many lasting friendships there.

Michel was a charming, good-looking guy. In 1990, at the age of 46, he married for the first time. He and Susan worked out the culture clashes, and as a team created a wonderful life full of family, friends and love.

After exploring the east coast for an ideal retirement location, they landed in Canandaigua, in a development that turned out to be filled with the warmest, most generous people they could have hoped for.

Michel was an avid fisherman and boater and found his greatest pleasure on the water, be it a Finger Lake or a beach on the ocean – reminiscent of youthful summers spear fishing in the Mediterranean.

There is one word that invariably comes up whenever anyone speaks about Michel. He was a true “gentleman”. He will be sorely missed and fondly remembered.

Family and friends are invited to call on WEDNESDAY, September 3, 2025 from 3-6 PM at Miller Funeral and Cremation Services (3325 Winton Rd S., Rochester, NY 14623). Funeral services will be held, Thursday at 11 AM in the Coptic Monastery of Saint Shenouda (525 Lehigh Station Rd., W. Henrietta, NY 14586). Interment, White Haven Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Coptic Monastery of Saint Shenouda [DONATE ONLINE] in his memory.