BATTISTA, Michael Nicholas, 82, of Belleair Bluffs, passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 23, 2021. Mike, as he was known to family and friends, was born on May 8, 1938 to Vito and Concetta Battista in Chicago, IL. He led a remarkably interesting life starting in Chicago and moving to Los Angeles before settling in Florida in 1974. Prior to moving to Pinellas County, he and his family resided in Pasco County from 1974 to 2012.

Mike served honorably as a U.S. Marine in the 1950s and enjoyed a multi-year career as an Executive and National Training Director for Max Factor. As a serial entrepreneur he passionately engaged in a wide range of businesses as owner, consultant, and visionary. Mike saw the world as a canvas, articulating endless possibilities and ways to improve his surroundings and often envisioned a path unable to seen by others. He was a pioneer of downtown New Port Richey, FL, purchasing then undertaking the daunting task of refurbishing and operating the historic Hacienda Hotel in the 1970s. He also helped lead the resurgence of Ybor City in the 1990s, as the owner and operator of Rough Riders Restaurant in historic Ybor Square.

Mike is survived by Debra, his devoted and cherished wife of 42 years, brother Vincent, and pre-deceased by sister, Annette. His greatest pride were his 7 children, John, Nick, Tina, Michele, Michael, Christine, and Jimmy, and he was a loving grandfather of 13. Mike was passionate about working hard, but also enjoying life. He had a charismatic personality and especially adored music, dancing and singing. He had a remarkable talent for starting conversations with anyone, often offering encouragement and provoking a smile.

Mike was a faithful member of St. Jerome’s Catholic Church in Largo, FL where services will be held post-pandemic.