Peabody - It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Michael C. DiDonato, 84, who lost his courageous battle with cancer on Saturday, May 2, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Beverly, he was the son of the late Dominic and Mary (Consoli) DiDonato. He was the beloved husband to Kathleen (Donahue) DiDonato for over 60 years, a devoted father, and a doting grandfather who loved his six grandchildren "more than life itself".

Michael attended Beverly High School and Northeast Institute of Industrial Technology. A proud veteran of the US Army and a dedicated member of the Beverly Police Department, Michael was instrumental in implementing the D.A.R.E. and Community Oriented Policing programs.

Michael enjoyed playing knock rummy at the ICC Club with his friends. In his earlier days, he was a pool shark at Murray's Pool Hall.

In addition to his wife Kathleen, Michael is survived by his daughters, Robin DiDonato and her wife Andrea DiDonato, Suzanne James and her husband Kevin, his son, Michael DiDonato and his wife Lisa DiDonato, his grandchildren, Payton James, Autumn James, Sienna James, Nolan DiDonato, Jacob DiDonato, and Justin DiDonato. Additionally, Michael is also survived by his loving sister Eleanor Jastrzembski and several nieces and nephews.

His funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 253 Cabot Street, Beverly, on Saturday, May 9th, at 12:00pm. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours will be held at the Campbell Funeral Home, 525 Cabot Street, Beverly, prior to the service from 9:00am to 11:00am. Contributions may be made in Michael's memory to Care Dimensions, Ste. B-102, 75 Sylvan St, Danvers, MA 01923 or American Cancer Society, 38 Chauncy St STE 700, Boston, MA 02111. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.