Michael R. Paladino

Michael R. Paladino, 87, died peacefully at RWJUH-Somerville on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Son of the late Robert M. and Theresa (Vaccaro) Paladino, Mike was born in Brooklyn, NY and lived most of his life in Bound Brook.

Mike, in the late 1960's, was the Drummer with The Epitome of Sound, who's recording of "You Don't Love Me", reached No. 4 on the UK, Northern Soul Top 500 Charts. 

As a Senior at Bound Brook High School, Mike played nightly with the World Famous NYC Stork Club Orchestra.  

He also worked with Nick Massi, prior to his joining the Four Seasons, and also after, subbing on various College Dates, with Frankie Valli, and The Four Seasons.  Mike and keyboard player, Joe DeJohn, played with Joe Pesci Actor/Musician, at several NJ Night Club gigs, and also with the re noun singer, Eddie Ventura & The Impallas. 
Mike was extremely talented, and as a songwriter, he wrote "Play Girl", and "Calendar of Love" for his brothers vocal group, The Brooks Four, aka, The Four Winds, aka The Teamates,.

Frank Sinatra was Mike's Favorite Singer, and He performed many of His songs, and in later years, He could be quickly prompted to burst out with "Angel Eyes", "Lady Is A Tramp", "It Was A Very Good Year", or "My Way", never missing any of the Words!  

To sum it all up, Mike  had the class, and comedic and dramatic ability to become as famous as other celebrities, given the opportunity. "He used to make Joe Pesci Laugh"!!!

He is survived by his brother, Robert J. Paladino of Washington; son, Robert M. Paladino of Bridgewater and a son Michael.

Visiting hours will be held from 9AM – 10:30AM with a service beginning at 10:30AM on Monday, December 29, 2025 at the Bridgewater Funeral Home, 707 E. Main Street, Bridgewater, NJ 08807.  

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