Michael L. Mustacchi
Jan 8, 1959 - Jan 26, 2018
Michael loved San Francisco and the city loved him right back. He grew up and lived in the Marina where his neighbors dubbed him the “Mayor of Laguna Street” for his caring and cheerful interactions. This sense of community was essential Mustacchi as he became a steadfast pillar of innumerable organizations. Every group got Michael unfiltered: filled with fun, explosive energy, a little bit of frazzle, and deep caring about the people and service. Michael never fully cared about revenues from all his connections, but rather focused on the people and their satisfaction, whether it was a party, meeting with Gold Star Parents, or a portrait session. Michael was a true San Francisco son. Some of the organizations he joined or contributed to: San Francisco Fire Department, Marines Memorial Association, The Family, Master Mason in Phoenix Lodge No.144, Golden Gate Breakfast Club, Rotary Club of San Francisco, The Press Club, FOG (Friends of the Grape), Olympic Club, Calvary Church, and San Francisco Execs.
A graduate of Marina Junior High, Galileo High School and Dominican College, he maintained close contacts and friendships with students and teachers alike. He joined The Press Club in 1976 as one its first student members, worked for the San Francisco Progress newspaper, and started Still News Photos as a photo source for newspapers and other publications, as well as the all encompassing Michael Mustacchi & Associates.
Michael’s inexhaustible and positive energy fit well into his award-wining career as a photographer. His work can be seen across the city, from action-packed firefighters on the job to portraits of the famous and not-so-famous. His tag line – “Capturing Moments That Matter” – clearly expressed Michael’s work. Whether a city-wide event, big party, convention, or intimate event, Michael was there. He worked with many of the leading companies in San Francisco and Silicon Valley, with distinguished dignitaries of the city, state and world, as well as with the organizations he loved. Michael impacted so many organizations that reflections are almost impossible.
Michael had a 30 year relationship with the San Francisco Fire Department / Office of Emergency Services. He became known as the “unofficial ‘official’ photographer,” attending every major fire and department event. Most of the official portraits on the SFFD website were done by Michael, and numerous firefighters enlisted his talent to “capture” bridal engagements, weddings, and anniversary celebrations. He was part of the SFFD family for all of these reasons.
Since 2002 Michael participated, supported and recorded the Marines Memorial Association’s mission of honoring the legacy of military service. Michael was an essential part of the team, not only by recording the programs and services of the club but also by embracing with respect and appreciation those who serve and have served our country. You could find Michael photographing world leaders, a group of Iwo Jima Veterans, a wedding or an employee picnic. Michael was woven into the fabric and culture of the club and the people who are dedicated to serve its mission. He photographed the California Gold Star Parents in a 60 Minutes CBS tribute to their fallen sons and daughters who served.
Somehow Michael always found time to assist in charitable works and give of his time for the good of others. Michael had a life full of friends and associates, all with “Michael” stories. He was a true San Franciscan. He played Santa Claus at the Calvary Church’s Annual Senior Adults Christmas Tea, and could be found helping to paint the fire plug at 20th and Church in the wee hours of April 18th, giving private tours of the Cable Car Barn, telling stories about the last 49’er game at Kezar, hanging out at Funston (now Moscone) Park, pre-Thanksgiving cooking for Rotary and the ARC, hobknobbing with politicians at the Italian Athletic Club’s luncheons, or capturing celebrity bell ringing for the Salvation Army.
In the last months of his life, Michael did what he loved: connecting with friends, bringing them closer, and savoring his marriage to one incredible woman, Honey Mannix. This was vintage Mustacchi. All of which we, his friends, will sadly miss. Michael left a lasting impression on all of us, and that special bond will not be forgotten.
Predeceased by his parents, Dora and Dr. Piero Mustacchi, and followed in death by his brother Roberto. Michael is survived by his wife, Honey, family and friends. A memorial will be held on March 18th at 3:00 at the Marines Memorial Club, 609 Sutter Street, San Francisco.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Marines Memorial Association Michael Mustacchi Memorial Fund or a memorial gift to the SFFD Museum Guardians of the City, P.O. Box 411314, San Francisco CA 94141.