SFC Michael Eugene Ceruto, United States Army, Retired, age 93 of Gulfport, passed away on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jose Ceruto and Antonia Sarmiento; and his siblings, Joe Ceruto and Connie Nieves.

Michael is survived by his loving wife of 65 years of Maria Ceruto; his daughters, Eleonore Griesch, Elizabeth Ginori, Susie Ceruto, Rose Marie (Miles) Bateman and Michel Marshallsay; his grandchildren, Laura Atkinson, Nicole (Michelle Maleski) Oppedahl, Michael Bateman, Jessica (Drae) Lloyd, Megan (Matthew) Graham, Ghislaine Wilcox, Gabriel (Trinidad) Sapriza, Mackenzie Bateman, Stephan Schutze and Andi Schutze; his great grandchildren, Paul (Jennifer) Atkinson, Jr., Anthony Atkinson, Adrianna Atkinson, Allayah Lloyd, Makenna Graham, Aryanna Lloyd, Madison Graham and Alijah Lloyd; and his fur baby, Foxy.

Michael was born on December 30, 1932, in Santiago, Cuba, where he spent his childhood until the age of twelve. He then moved to New York City, where he completed high school before answering the call to serve his adopted country by joining the United States Army during the Korean War. After two years of service, he was honorably discharged while stationed in Germany.

Following a brief return to New York, Michael re-enlisted in the Army and embarked on a distinguished military career that spanned 22 years. As an Airborne Green Beret in the Army Special Forces, he served with honor and dedication, embracing the challenges and responsibilities of an elite military unit. His service took him around the world, with assignments in Germany, New Orleans, Kentucky, Okinawa, and Vietnam. He was later reunited with his family in Spain before being stationed in Virginia. Missing the international adventures, he requested a return to Germany, which was granted. His final assignment took him to Italy, where he served for a year before retiring from military service.

After retirement, Michael and his family settled in Spain for two years before relocating to Miami, where they made their home for twenty years. During that time, he worked as a manager for several restaurants, continuing his lifelong commitment to hard work and providing for his family. The family later moved to Panama City for four years before settling in Gulfport, where Michael enjoyed nearly three decades of retirement.

A devoted husband and father, Michael was known for his tireless work ethic. He worked hard to provide opportunities for his children and to allow his wife, Maria, to focus on caring for their home and family. His dedication and sacrifices were a testament to the deep love he had for those closest to him.

In his younger years, Michael was an accomplished boxer and baseball player. He remained active throughout his life, continuing to exercise and run well into his eighties. He also enjoyed walking the Ocean Springs–Biloxi Bridge and spending time bowling with friends and family. During retirement, Michael and Maria enjoyed visiting casinos along the Gulf Coast and making memories together.

Above all, Michael treasured his family. He loved them deeply, took great pride in their accomplishments, and cherished every moment spent together. He was greatly loved and will be remembered for his strength, devotion, generosity, and unwavering commitment to those he held dear. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In accordance to his wishes, services will be private.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is honored to serve the family. An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com .