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Michael Racanelli, 20, a sophomore in the College of Arts and Sciences from Brightwaters, NY, was found deceased in his off-campus apartment on Foster Street in Brighton on Nov. 14. A cause of death has not yet been reported by the Medical Examiner’s Office. Boston Police have ruled out foul play.
In a letter to the Boston College community, Vice President for Student Affairs Patrick Rombalski said, “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Michael’s family and his many friends.” He offered condolences to Michael’s parents, Michael V. Racanelli ’84 and Barbara Racanelli; brother Matthew, a member of the freshman class; sisters Lexie and Carly; cousins Anthony and Nicholas — a freshman and junior, respectively, in the Carroll School of Management; and Michael’s extended family.
Rombalski encouraged BC students to avail themselves of various campus resources, including the offices of Counseling Services (ext.2-3310), Campus Ministry (ext.2-3475) and Residential Life (ext.2-3060).
Members of the Student Affairs and Campus Ministry staff have reached out to Michael’s roommates, friends and fellow lacrosse players. They also visited residence halls the evening of Nov. 14 to be available for students.
Services will be held in Michael's home town on Long Island. Calling hours will be Thursday, Nov. 17, from 7-9:30 p.m. and Friday, Nov. 18, from 2- 4:30 p.m., and 7-9:30 p.m. at the Fredrick J. Chapey & Sons Funeral Home. A funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, Nov. 19, at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick's Church, Bay Shore, Long Island, NY. For more: Legacy Site. The University is providing transportation for students who would like to attend the wake; those who are unable to attend may send expressions of sympathy the Racanelli Family at 255 Lakeview Ave. West, Brightwaters, Long Island, NY.
Vice President for University Mission and Ministry Jack Butler, SJ, said “At BC, we are a family and the death of one of ours is always painful and sad; however, the love and support found within our community is the very sign of God and the source of our comfort.”