Obituary of Faro Gervasi

Faro Gervasi
September 16, 1939 – July 23, 2026

Faro Gervasi passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the age of 86.

Born on September 16, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, to John and Grace (Ventimiglia) Gervasi, Faro was the second oldest of six children. From an early age, he possessed an adventurous spirit that would define his entire life.

As a teenager, Faro proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, where he traveled the world multiple times. During his service, he developed lifelong passions for photography and boating—interests that reflected his appreciation for adventure, craftsmanship, and capturing life's moments.

After returning home, Faro discovered his true calling as a builder and creator. Whether constructing homes and garages, selling real estate, operating businesses ranging from home inspections to agricultural pesticide sales, or simply lending a hand to someone in need, he found joy in making things better than he found them. He was a respected salesman, a skilled carpenter, an entrepreneur, and a man who was never afraid of hard work.

Faro spent several years in Northern Michigan before eventually making Lansing his home. He lived life on his own terms, embracing every opportunity with determination, humor, and an unmistakable personality.

If you knew Faro, you knew you were never going to be bored. He was the life of the party, whether at deer camp, a family gathering, or meeting someone for the very first time. He had a story for every occasion, a joke for every room, and a way of making people feel like old friends. He loved the outdoors—hunting, fishing, boating, and simply being where life was happening. He wasn't interested in sitting on the sidelines; he wanted to experience life to its fullest and bring everyone around him along for the ride.

He was also a lifelong Detroit Lions fan, proudly sticking with his team through decades of ups and downs. He often reminded people that he was fortunate enough to witness the Lions' last NFL Championship in 1957, and he never stopped believing that another one was coming.

His laughter, charisma, generosity, and larger-than-life personality left an impression that won't soon be forgotten.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Grace Gervasi; his brother, Andrew Gervasi; and his sister, Christine McCormick.

Faro is survived by his beloved wife, Lana Gervasi; his children, Andrew Santangelo (Lisa), Dominic Santangelo, Crissy Napont (Craig), and Michael Gervasi (Katie); his stepchildren, Michelle Payton, Jamie Temple, Matt Vroman, and Brian Vroman; his grandchildren, Zachary Napont, Xander Napont, Aubrey Gervasi, Alexander Gervasi, and Addison Gervasi; numerous beloved step-grandchildren; his brother, John Gervasi (Cheryl); his sisters, Grace Franjola and Marietta Gervasi; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

Faro's greatest legacy is not found in the homes he built or the businesses he created, but in the memories he leaves behind and the lives he touched. He taught those around him that life was meant to be lived boldly, that family was worth showing up for, and that there was always room for one more story around the table or one more adventure outdoors.

His stories will continue to be told, his laughter will continue to echo through deer camps and family gatherings, and his spirit will forever ride with the wind.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:30 p.m., Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Rd., Holly MI 48442. A second celebration of life will be held in the Lansing area, with details to be announced later.

Fair winds and following seas, Faro. Your watch is complete, but your legacy lives on.

To sign the online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com  Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan