Michelle was an animal lover her entire life and never turned a cold shoulder to any cat, dog, possum or raccoon that showed up on her doorstep. Her true love was horses, and she spent a considerable amount of time at F.R.I.E.N.D.S.  becoming one of the daily caretakers.

 

Michelle and her daughter Jenifer became members and sponsored several horses over the years. When Michelle first came out, she wanted to sponsor a horse for Jenifer for Christmas. She quickly jumped all in building relationships with like-minded people. Some of those friendships lasting for fifteen years or more. They fell in love with the horses and sponsored Baby but went on to sponsor Beckitt, Jodi, Panache, Stripper, Digger, and Brownie. Michelle loved being a daily feeder of the 50-horse herd and other small farm animals. She learned how to give medical care and dedicated herself to the cause of horse rescue.

​

Michelle was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer in 2022 and we were blessed to have her two more years. Though she is no longer here, she will never be forgotten. Most important to her family, is that she is no longer in pain. 

​​

Michelle is survived by her daughter Jenifer DiLapi and her son Richard DiLapi. Jenifer and Richard can be reached at 954-270-4495.

 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 in Windermere, Florida.

​

In lieu of flowers, Michelle's children ask that donations be made to  F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Horse Rescue & Sanctuary.

You may use the donation button shown or send a check to:

FRIENDS Horse Rescue & Sanctuary

1840 NE 65 Court

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308

​

​