SALISBURY — Richard M. “Mike” Metzger, 78, passed away Friday, April 4, 2025, at GEER Assisted Living, Canaan.
Mike was born on July 11, 1946, in Rockville Centre, New York, son of the late Richard A. Metzger and Gloria A. (O’Donnell) Metzger. He made his home in Salisbury for the past 25 years and was known throughout the community for his warmth, generosity, and passion for sports and education.
Mike dedicated his professional life to teaching and coaching in Nassau County, New York. He spent much of his career at North Shore High School, where he not only taught but also made a lasting impact as a dedicated coach. He founded the school’s summer baseball program and led his teams to numerous championships in both baseball and bowling, shaping the lives of countless student-athletes along the way. A proud member of the Professional Bowlers Association and the Nassau County Coaches Association, Mike was a competitor at heart and a mentor by nature.
In his younger years, Mike excelled as an athlete, playing professional bowling and continuing to play baseball well into his 50s. His lifelong love of classic American muscle cars earned him many trophies and brought him joy and camaraderie at competitions throughout the years.
Mike will be remembered not only for his many accomplishments but for his good-natured spirit and unwavering kindness. He was the type of person who always went the extra mile—whether that meant lending a hand to a friend, guiding a student toward their potential, or simply offering a word of encouragement when it was needed most. He truly was an all-around good guy and his legacy lives on in the lives he touched.
Survivors include his siblings; Thomas Metzger (Madeline) and Mary D’Ambrosio (Joe); nieces and nephews, Michael D’Ambrosio (Kerri) and their children Shea and Camden, Kristen D’Ambrosio (Mike Faraglia) and their child Hazel, Katie Bell (Darren) and their children Bryce and Carolina, and Megan D’Ambrosio (Matt Sinese) and their child, Ben.
Services will be held in the near future. Ryan Funeral Home, Lakeville, is in care of arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. To offer an online condolence, please visit ryanfhct.com
Tiffany Lemelin, shelter manager, brushing Marsala upon arrival.Provided
Michael DeBarba, certified dog trainer working with Marsala.Jennifer Almquist
Marsala wins a heart.Jennifer Almquist
Sadie, center, a Carolina dog, plays with her friend Negra, a terrier mix. Bella Linda, the small poodle, has since been adopted.L. Tomaino
Wesley, a young, exuberant mix, is looking for an active home.L. Tomaino
Bonnie and Clyde, an affectionate terrier pair.L. Tomaino
