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Michael DiSTEFANO Obituary
DiSTEFANO, Michael P.
Michael Paul DiStefano beloved son, brother, father and friend, was born on October 21, 1962 and passed away from injuries sustained in an auto accident on January 30, 2012. Mike was the fifth child of Thomas L and Agnes F. DiStefano Jr.'s eight children, seven sons and one daughter, of 48 Barton Hill Rd., East Hampton, CT. Mike, an avid sportsman and athlete, in high school lettered in both soccer and basketball. After high school Mike became a competitive 5k and 10k runner participating in races throughout New England. Mike's passion for music and singing was first noticed as a lead voice in the high school choir. Mike followed UCONN basketball and football as well as U Tennessee football, was a shareholder in the Boston Celtics and loved the Dallas cowboys since childhood. After high school Mike entered the Air Force and was honorably discharged. After the Air Force Mike attended Middlesex Community College and ended his course study in 1984. Mike began his employment and career as a chef working for family restaurants leading to the ownership of Mr. D's restaurant with his brother Dan in 1987. For ten years under both Mike and Dan's leadership Mr. D's prospered as the East Hampton meeting place serving Italian fare in a sports atmosphere. In 1997 Mr. D's was destroyed in a fire and a bit of the soul of East Hampton was lost as well. Later in life Mike joined International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers, Local 33 where he was employed. Most important to Mike was being a dedicated and loving father to his children, Anthony, Gabriel, Luca and Gianna. Mike leaves behind his parents Thomas L. and Agnes F. DiStefano Jr.; siblings, Thomas and Rebecca DiStefano III of Boca Raton, FL, David and Mari DiStefano of Cumberland, TN, Randall and Mona DiStefano of Grafton, VT, Steven and Sherri DiStefano of Roanoke, VA, Kevin DiStefano and Jerry Rodriquez of Hartford, CT, Karen (DiStefano) and Frank Mott of Moodus, CT, and Daniel and Sharon DiStefano of East Hampton, CT; and many nieces nephews and aunts and uncles.
A Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated on Friday February 3rd at 11 a.m. in St. Patrick Church East Hampton. Burial will follow in the family plot in St. Patrick Cemetery. Friends may call at the Spencer Funeral Home 112 Main St. East Hampton on Thursday evening from 6 until 9 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Autism Speaks CT at www.autismspeaks.org. To leave online condolences please visit www.spencerfuneralhomeinc.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael DiSTEFANO
Sponsored by The family.
RPD
January 30, 2024
Another year
JoAnn (Cheney) Magyarik
January 26, 2022
Think of you often, Mike. Miss your smile and hugs.
Randy
January 26, 2019
Miss ya Bro. All day, every day..
Tom DiStefano
June 25, 2018
Mike, thinking about you. Haven't been to East Hampton in a year. Going up at the end of August to see Pop and visit you. Roman, your godson, is doing terrific. Just came back from Berklee School of Music.
Miss you brother Mike, always will, our family has a very big hole in it without you.
Brother Tom.
Thomas DiStefano
November 3, 2016
Brother Mike. The holidays are approaching. Everything about you, just you, is missed especially this time of year and season. My little brother, the one I spent so much time being the big brother too. Remember working on the cross over dribble on Chestnut Hill, coming to visit me at ECSU, you living with me in E Norwalk, teaching you pizza at Gina Maries in Middletown, eating your ravioli at Mr D's. Sitting here with tears knowing you will not be home for Christmas, is only OK because Mom is with you. Miss and love you little brother. Big brother Tom.
Tom DiStefano III
September 30, 2016
Mike, Thinking about you nearly every day. It will never be the same without you in our lives.
JoAnn (Cheney) Magyarik
January 31, 2014
I miss your smile and the way you used to pick on me about the choral award. Think of you often, Mike. XXOO
January 31, 2014
Thinking about you and missing you so much every day Michael <3
January 30, 2014
We love and miss you, Michael!XOXO
Brother Tom
January 28, 2013
Miss you every day brother Mike. Drop by all the time to be reminded of you.
Randy
January 27, 2013
Time has stood still.It seems like yesterday that I saw you. Love and miss you.
Vicki
January 26, 2013
I can't believe it's been almost a year. I hope you know you are thought about and missed so much <3 <3
Randy
September 9, 2012
Miss you Mike..
Louise
September 7, 2012
Mike, stopped by to talk to u, miss u. Your laugh, your smile, your spirt keeps me strong....until we meet again my friend, always in my heart...weezer
brother Tom
September 6, 2012
Mike, thinking about you daily. Dropped by to see your very DiStefano face.
Tom DiStefano
March 6, 2012
Mike, it's been a mounth and I miss you more every day. In my heart I know we will met again to share our journey. Still expect you to come into the room.
Nancy Cramer
February 9, 2012
I am profoundly sad to learn of the passing of Michael, your beloved father, son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, and friend. My condolances to all of you. He was a wonderful person and you have treasured memories of Mike that will last a lifetime.
I am in Florida so I was unable to attend his funeral mass.
Love,
Jeanne Fuqua
February 7, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of this loss. My condolances to the family. I worked with Mike at dr. D's and so fondly remember him. RIP Mike
Craig Hyland
February 6, 2012
I'm sorry to hear about the loss of Mike. I worked under him at Mr Di's and have thought of him many times throughout the years, each time with a smile... it's that memory that will last. My sympathy to his family.
Sue Poulin
February 4, 2012
My heartfelt condolances to the DiStefano family. May your happy memories of Mike give you comfort. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
kevin DiStefano
February 4, 2012
i just woke up after being awake for 3 days and only now have been able to read all the wonderful things you wonderful people have written about my beautiful brother mike. mike was at my house 2 days befor he passed. he was helping me around the house. he was happy and looked beautiful, singing and joking with me. it was his day to pick up his kids and he was so happy about it.i had no idea that that would be the last time id hear him tell me he loved me(he always told me this when leaving my home)... thank you, thank you, thank you all for the kind words, cards,food and love you have shown myself and all of the DiStefano family. the love i felt at his wake from so many dear and loving people(hundreds of you) has truly helped jerry and i better cope with his passing. his kids will read what youve said one day and for that i am forever yours. thank you again......kevin andrew DiStefano
Steve Nezas
February 3, 2012
As we go through life and we think of the people we've known, there are those that always bring a smile. Michael's smile will forever be one of them. Godspeed.
Rose Greaves
February 3, 2012
Already miss you Mike!! You will always be in my heart. R.I.P. Sweetie!!!
Tracey Bennett
February 3, 2012
I am so sorry for your loss Mike was a wonderful man who will be missed by many
February 3, 2012
Thinking of Kevin and family at this very difficult time,prayers and hope love and light.. love, pati
Magna Harper
February 3, 2012
My sincerest condolences to Kevin and your entire family.
Love, Magna Harper
February 3, 2012
My condolences to Mr D.and his family. Mike was such a character he always had a smile on his face and you always walked away with one on yours after talking to him.
Lori Galvin Weech
Greg Wheeler
February 3, 2012
Ever since Mr D handed me my first trumpet in the 4th grade, the Distefano family has been a part of my life in one way or another. Mike's untimely passing is a tragedy that cannot be properly expressed with words. I will miss him and think of him often. The entire Distefano family has my most heartfelt condolences.
Joan Thiesen
February 3, 2012
Heartfelt sympathies to the DiStefano family on your loss. My son Adam is in 2nd grade at ECS with Luca. It's a tragic loss. Please know we're thinking of your family.
Jacqui Gorin
February 3, 2012
To the entire DiStefano family - I am so sorry for your loss. I have great memories of our Barton Hill/Maple St neighborhood, and Mike's smiling face and outgoing personality were a big part of that. More recently, it has been great to reconnect with him through Facebook. He will live forever in the memories of all who knew him.
Mandy (Denman) and Kyle Amtmanis
February 2, 2012
Anthony and the entire DiStefano family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Keep your many special memories close to your heart. May they bring you comfort
Debbie Ivey- Snow
February 2, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Distefano family.
John & Josephine Croasdale
February 2, 2012
Tom & Agnes, We were very sorry to hear of Michael's passing. Our hearts go out to you & your family at this difficult time.
We will keep all of you in our prayers.
The Scrantons
February 2, 2012
Our deepest condolences to your family.
william mott
February 2, 2012
mike you started out as my boss at di's became a friend more then that you were like an older brother. took me under your wing gave advice an shared alot of laughs. i will forever be thankful. you will surely be missed
Nancy Hasselman
February 2, 2012
To Mike's Family:
Our deepest thoughts and sympathies are with you all at this time. Mike had a wonderful smile and infectious laugh. Keep all your fondest memories close to your hearts. You are all in our prayers.
With Sympathy-
Nancy & Jerry Hasselman
Cheryl and Andy Lincoln
February 2, 2012
Karen and Franki we were sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
February 2, 2012
May the choirs of angels come to greet you.
May they speed you to paradise.
May the Lord enfold you in his mercy.
May you find eternal life.
Sheila (Pekari) & Steve Mongiat
February 2, 2012
To the DiStefano family, We are so sorry to hear about the loss of Mike. I always remembered him as a fun guy who always had a smile on his face. May you all find comfort in your family and friends and the wonderful memories you have of Mike. Our prayers are with you all.
Dan & Lynda (Sirois) Zawisza
February 2, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers to the entire DiStefano family. We are very sorry for your loss.
Pete & Sandi Anderson
February 2, 2012
Our deepest sympathy goes out to the DiStefano family; what a tragedy. Mike was a good soul. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
February 2, 2012
To the DiStefano Family:
I grew up in EH and was in almost every elementary class with Mike. I hadn't seen him since 8th grade and I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. He was a good guy and sounds like he only got better. Thoughts and Prayers are with you. Jolene (Dube) Mastrio
February 2, 2012
While we are mourning the loss of our friend, others are rejoicing to meet him behind the veil.
Sharon (Nowakowski) Polowitzer
February 2, 2012
To the DiStefano family, I am so sorry for your loss. Mike was a great person who could make anyone laugh and brighten their day. He will be missed by all who knew him but his memory will live on forever in all of us. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Paige Quinn
February 2, 2012
My thoughts and prayers to the entire DiStefano family. I am very sorry for your loss. Mike always had a smile and a pleasant word...he will be missed....Paige Quinn
Susan Harlan (Flickinger)
February 2, 2012
I had the great pleasure of reconnecting with Mike through Facebook, 3,000 miles away and 30 years after we graduated together at EHHS. It seems inconceivable that Mike isn't there anymore to talk with him, laugh with him. He was so passionate about his family, and enjoyed sharing his love for his parents and his wonderful children. I'm so grateful I was able to have Mike in my life this last year; he's an amazing man, so full of life and love. Coast to coast, there are people who Mike touched, and we're all better people for it. Love never dies, we take it with us. Remember the love.
Nicole Mott
February 1, 2012
R.I.P uncle Mike we all love and miss you already, you will always be in my prayers ? "If tears could build a stair way, and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again". ? Love always your God daughter Nicole
Lyn Odell/Rannou
February 1, 2012
To all of Michaels's friend and family,
Although difficult, Life is a process of Letting Go. Letting go of people, watching them move out of our lives. Letting go of times, places, and experiences. Leaving behind a loved one may sadden us but it also provides us with opportunities for growth we hadn't imagined. These experiences push us beyond our former selves to a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. So often those experiences that sadden us, that trigger our pain, are the best lessons life has to offer. Experiencing the pain stretches us to new heights. Life is enriched by the pain and our experiences with all other persons there after are deeper. In stead of dreading the departure of a loved one, we must try to appreciate all that we have gained and know that our lives are fuller for it.
A love in any way can withstand time and can be carried in your heart forever. So I say to Michael's children, who meant the world to him- Daddy is always with you! God Bless all of us, I know he did when He brought Michael into our lives.
RIP Michael, xoxoLyn
Liz Burdick
February 1, 2012
To All of the DiStefano Family ..... I'm so very sorry for the loss of Mike. I will always remember him as a happy, fun, genuinely nice and caring person who brought a smile to your face. He is in my thoughts and prayers, as are you. God bless.
Steve Poulin
February 1, 2012
My sincerest condolences to the DiStefano family. As a fellow son of an EHHS teacher, I had known Mike my whole life and had always thought he was one of the friendliest guys. In 2006, despite the fact I hadn't seen him in a dozen years, he chased me down a loud, busy hallway at Sikorsky just to say hello while taking a break from working on our HVAC system. His athleticism and his enthusiasm for singing were on display at Mr. Di's in the '90s whenever my brother's band played Blister in the Sun...MIke would leap over the bar in one motion, grab the microphone and belt it out. Rest in peace, Mike.
February 1, 2012
Michael, there are not any words to really say how much you will be missed! You were always such a bright spot in everyday. Oh the memories that so many of us have; school, Di's, etc, etc. They are all so precious. I am grateful to have had you in my life. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of your family. May you all find peace in your hearts.
Kate (Cook) Lutley
February 1, 2012
Michael, there are not any words to really say how much you will be missed! You were always such a bright spot in everyday. Oh the memories that so many of us have; school, Di's, etc, etc. They are all so precious. I am grateful to have had you in my life. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of your family. May you all find peace in your hearts.
Stacey, Justin & Hunter Randall
February 1, 2012
Dan, Sharon, Alex, Drew and the entire DiStefano family, we are so very sorry to hear about the loss of Mike. May you find comfort in the arms of family at this most difficult time, and smiles in your beautiful memories. We are here for you all. Much love, peace and strength to you.
Denise Ivey
February 1, 2012
to the Distefano family my condolences my thoughts and prayers are with you all. We all have wonderful memories of Mike he will be missed by all who knew him.
Cheryl (Edwards) Randino
February 1, 2012
Mr. & Mrs. DiStefano and the entire family...I was sadden to learn that Mike passed away so suddenly. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I hope that you find comfort in the many happy memories that you have.
Eric Hope
February 1, 2012
I seem to be more upset at Mike's passing than those of my grandparents, even though we were so close. It was their time. This was NOT Mike's time. His kids NEED him, yet that will now go unfulfilled. Deepest condolences to his entire family. He will be sorely missed.
Michelle Boucher Culbert
February 1, 2012
Very saddened to hear about Mike. I remember him well in high school. He was a wonderful person and part of a wonderful family. May God comfort you all in this time of sorrow. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Lisa Piotrowski
February 1, 2012
My thoughts and prayers to the entire DiStefano family.
It's what we do with our dash ( - ) in life that counts, and it is obvious by all the entries here, and on Facebook, that Mike touched many lives. Many have repeated "Live, Life, Love" as being a description of what he represented. What a great soul! We have just gained another angel.
Doug and Karen MacDonald(Gustafson)
February 1, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Distefano family. May your memories bring you comfort.
February 1, 2012
Danny,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Love your Sysco National Accounts Family.
Jon and Carol Bayer
February 1, 2012
Our Deepest Sympathy to Mike's family and friends. There are no words which can help lessen the incredible pain of the loss of a loved one. May time help heal the grief and allow the many wondeful and personal memories shared with Mike ease the pain of his loss. Mike was a pleasure to have had in our classroom.
Our Deepest Sympathy,
Jon and Carol Bayer
Brad Russell
February 1, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to all the Distefano family with the loss of Mike. I always admired Mikes energy and upbeat, outgoing personality that seemed to come so easily to him and enjoyed the battles we had on the hoop court followed by a visit to Mr Di's (my most memorable being the night Tate George hit the miracle shot). May the found memories you and so many were fortunate to share with Mike comfort you in this difficult time.
Louise (weezee) Gorsline
February 1, 2012
To the distefano family, i am so sorry for your loss. Mike was a dedicated dad son brother and friend. I will forever hear him yelling weezer from mr di's kitchen. I am proud to have called him my friend...RIP Mike
Glenn & Barbara Suprono
February 1, 2012
To all the family,
We were so shocked and saddened by the tragic loss of Mike. We were frequent diners at Mr. Di's and enjoyed just about every event he offered. Our fondest memories are Halloween parties, Karaoke nights, snowstorms and after bowling. Mike was a wonderful guy and always treated his customers with great respect. We miss Mr. Di's and mostly we miss seeing Mike on a regular basis. We will miss him. Please accept our deepest sympathy. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Amanda Mott
February 1, 2012
Its not fair how things happen, how a life can be taken so quickly, its not fair that you were taken from our family, we truly love and miss you...RIP Uncle mike ?
Lindy and Noel Collins
February 1, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Distefano family. Mike was a great guy and we have been so happy to be a part of his life again after many years. He will be missed.
Kim Gates
February 1, 2012
Words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss....may you all find comfort in all the wonderful memories you shared with Mike...my thoughts and prayers to the entire Distefano family and his closest friends.
David Arcidiacono
February 1, 2012
I'm so sorry to hear about Mike. My sincere condolences to the entire DiStefano family. I played soccer and basketball with Mike and recall his great spirit and non-stop effort.
February 1, 2012
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Please accept my deepest sympathy,
Cristina Cardona (East Hampton- Newington)
Dan DiStefano
February 1, 2012
Listen for the laughter and there's Mike- Syke-with his bigger then life smile and his own vision on life, he kept all around him laught
Look after us Mike
February 1, 2012
to the entire family, Mike was an energetic and smart man with a big heart and the great gift of gab, our community has lost a bright light and my heart is heavy for your personal sorrows. I will always be grateful to have known him, his memory will live on. I offer my deep sympathies to each of you. May your hearts find some solace in your memories of this great guy. Bonnie Sweet-Reilly
Robbin Ruffino
February 1, 2012
Our Condolences to the Family. The Flickingers
Sysco Credit Dept.
February 1, 2012
To Dan and the entire DiStefano family you have our deepest sympathy. Our thoughts are with you.
Karen (Yanchinsky) Harrington
February 1, 2012
Mr. & Mrs. D & the entire DiStefano family,
I offer my sincere condolences and deepest sympathy on your loss. Words do an injustice in explaining how much we all will miss Mike. He will remain very alive in our memories and admiration. May the outpouring of sympathy, the kind acts of friends and strangers and the comfort in knowing that your loss is felt by many help you through this difficult time. I ask for God's blessings on you and your wonderful family. Rest in Peace, Mike.
Antolina DiStefano
February 1, 2012
I have a lot of good memorize of uncle mike and I will never forget him! He was such a good man with a great smile nice hair and always smelled good! You will always be in my heart I love you and miss you! R.I.P.
Deb (Hass) McKinney
February 1, 2012
My prayers and thoughts go out to the whole DiStefano family...our lives have been intertwined all my life into adulthood...Mike was a great basketball coach to my son as well. His enthusiasm and positive attitude are what I will remember the most.
Rita White-Michaud
February 1, 2012
May God bless the entire Distefano family in this time of sorrow. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
George Geysen
February 1, 2012
My prayers and well wishes are with the entire Distefano family at this very sad time of loss. May time and memory keep Mike alive in your hearts forever. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Lisa Seymour
February 1, 2012
May your memories of Mike help you through this sad & difficult time. He will always be in your heart.
Carolyn Paris Massaro
February 1, 2012
Dan, I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of your brother Michael. My condolences to your entire family.
In my minds eye I can see you and your brother hustling around the restuarant, and the amazing aroma of italian food wafting in the air.
Karen Mott
February 1, 2012
It's hard to believe that my brother Mike is gone. My heart is broken! I'll miss your laugh, your smile and your love and devotion to everyone around you.
Karen Mott(DiStefano)
February 1, 2012
It's hard to believe that my brother Mike is gone. My heart is broken! I'll miss your laugh,your smile and your love and devotion to everyone around you.
Robin Boyce
February 1, 2012
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of mike, he was a good man and was so proud of his children, always saw the latest pictures of his children, my wife and I going to mr. Ds on Friday nights to get his prime rib, mr. Ds after Monday night basketball, and mike running by my house on rte 66 everyday, what a runner, he will be missed, robin h. Boyce Greenville,sc
Vicki
February 1, 2012
Those we love and lose are together with us in heart, forever with us in memory
JoAnn (Cheney)Magyarik
February 1, 2012
There are no words to say how sorry I am for your loss. Mike was a wonderful guy and will be missed by everyone who ever knew him. My thoughts , prayers, and love are with you at this sad time.
S P
February 1, 2012
I am very sorry to hear about Mike. He was always so full of energy. He will ne missed.
Susan Cramer Burdick
February 1, 2012
My heart goes out to Mike's family and friends. His energy and enthusiasm will be surely missed.
Theresa Lojewski (Cavanaugh)
February 1, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Theresa Valli
February 1, 2012
I am very sorry to hear the loss of Mike. Mike was a good person and will be greatly missed. Condolences to the Distefano family.
Randall DiStefano
February 1, 2012
Mike was a beacon of light in our family, No matter how bad things could get anything he said could make you smile. He had a way about him that made you forget everything and keep you locked on the present.His love of family and friends was an inspiration to all who knew him. I will love and miss him forever.
Rosemarie Hecht
February 1, 2012
My heart goes out to everyone in the DiStefano family. I hope you find the strength in family and friends to get through this tragic loss.
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