Obituaries

Michael Anthony “Bugsy” Belcastro Jr., 71, a lifelong resident of Old Forge, died Saturday at Wilkes-Barre General’s Post Acute Specialty Hospital after an illness. He is survived by his adoring wife, Lynn Celli Belcastro. The couple would have celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on Nov. 9.
Born on June 21, 1946, son of the late Michael Sr. and Leda Taroli Belcastro, Michael was a graduate of Old Forge High School. He proudly served as a paratrooper in the United States Army before an honorable discharge in 1971. A Roman Catholic, he was raised a member of St. Lawrence O’Toole Church in Old Forge.
He owned and operated the former “Bugsy’s”, a well-known bar and staple in the Old Forge community while also being a former owner and player of Bugsy and Salerno’s Champion baseball team. He was also the former owner of Lynn and Michael’s Beauty Supply. Upon its closure, he began a career in real estate sales, primarily in the Poconos region, and most recently sold timeshares for Split Rock Lodge in Lake Harmony.
He was an avid golfer and also an amazing cook who enjoyed eating his meals as much as he did cooking them. He loved watching vintage movies, especially all of the Italian classics.
A legendary prankster, he’ll forever be remembered for his humor and all who knew him has their own phenomenal story about him and they way they had met.
He was the life of the party, and was even featured on the original Woodstock Record. His legendary personality also landed him as a character personality in an episode of the well known South Park show. An all around amazing husband, father and provider, he worked hard every day of his life because he wanted to make sure his wife and kids were well taken care of. his family was his pride and joy. He will be deeply missed by anyone who had the honor of knowing him. A loving husband, father, relative and friend, he’ll always be missed by his loved ones.
He is also survived by his loving daughters, Gina Belcastro and Lana Belcasto, both of Old Forge; a father-in-law, Leonard Celli; sisters-in-law, Betty Belcastro and Valerie Celli; a brother-in-law, Guy Taroli; an aunt; nieces, nephews and cousins; and his beloved cat, Ginger.
He was also preceded in death by siblings, Louis, Anthony and Michalina Belcastro.
His family wishes to thank the staffs of both Geisinger Community Medical Center’s ICU and also the Post Acute Specialty Hospital for their collective compassion and kindness while Michael was under their care.
Private arrangements are under the care of the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home Inc., 517 N. Main St., Old Forge.