Michael J. Cataldo

1949 - 2024

Michael J. Cataldo
On July 23, 2024, Michael Joseph Cataldo, 75, died peacefully, at St. Vincent's Medical Center, surrounded by love, after enduring years of health complications.
He is survived by his wife, Diane Cataldo, daughter, Elizabeth Cataldo, mother, Janet Cataldo, and brother, Joseph Cataldo. He will be missed by many cousins, nieces and nephews, brothers and sisters-in-law, and friends. He was predeceased by his father, Joseph Cataldo, sisters, Corinne Rose and Karen Scheneman, and son, Michael Cataldo Jr. - all of whom he looked forward to embracing once again.
Michael was born on May 20, 1949, in Brookline, Massachusetts. He grew up as an "army brat", living in various states and countries around the world. When he was 18, Michael followed in his father's footsteps and joined the army. He proudly served two tours of duty in the Vietnam War in 1968 and 1969. Upon returning from war, Michael served as a State Trooper in Baltimore, Maryland. He then attended the University of Massachusetts, Boston, and received his bachelor's degree.
Michael then began his career working at various small companies. Eventually, Michael was hired by General Electric, where he worked for over 25 years. He "retired" at the age of 64, but in true Cataldo fashion, he desired to continue to help others. Returning to his army roots, he was hired by Lockheed Martin in 2015, and proudly worked for the defense contracting company until July 2024.
Though his career was incredibly fulfilling and long-lived, Michael's favorite job was being a father. His son, Michael Cataldo Jr., was born on September 30, 1979, and died on March 9, 2003, at the age of 23, from epilepsy complications. The tragic loss of Michael Jr. irrevocably changed Michael's perspective on life. His son, Michael, and daughter, Elizabeth, were his greatest joys.
Michael will be remembered for his humor, generosity, optimism, and love for life. He was a people-person and enjoyed learning about others' stories. He loved traveling the world, all genres of music, and meatballs. His top priority was family, and he would do anything for those he loved. Michael wanted his life to be celebrated and his stories to continue to be shared.
Services will be held at Spadaccino and Leo P. Gallagher & Son Community Funeral Home, 315 Monroe Tpke., in Monroe, CT, on Saturday, August 3rd, from 4-7 p.m. A military honors presentation will take place at 4:30 p.m. In memory of Michael, please consider making a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project. spadaccinofuneralhome.com