Miguel A Escalera

Miguel Escalera, 95, passed away peacefully at his Clinton home of 60 years on July 5, 2016, surrounded by loved ones. He is reunited with his wife Isabel, his bride for 63 years and the love of his life, who surely welcomed him with open arms at Heaven's Gate.

Mike, as he was known to many, was born an American citizen in the Dominican Republic and moved to New York City at age 19 to fight for his country during World War II. He was the highest decorated soldier in his Company earning the Silver Star for gallantry in action, two Combat Bronze Stars for heroism, the Combat Expert Infantry Badge, and two Presidential Unit Citations.

Following the war Mike continued his service to the state and to his town on numerous boards, commissions and organizations. He was an active member and past commander of the American Legion and the 100th Infantry Division Association. He served as Agent for Veterans' Affairs for more than 50 years, helping countless Veterans to obtain benefits and served as the Municipal Agent for the Elderly for more than 30 years, caring and advocating for Connecticut's aging population. He also served as a member of Clinton's Board of Selectman for four terms.

In 2014, he was inducted to the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame and the American Legion Hall of Fame and was recently honored by the City of New York with the dedication of a monument to the World War II Veterans of Dominican descent, which will forever bear his name.

Mike believed in integrity, honor, and commitment to helping others and sought to instill those values in his extended family. He loved fishing, dancing and gardening but his greatest passion was his family. He is survived by his three devoted sons, Yasha of Manchester, Miguel Jr. of Glastonbury, and Raymond of Allen, Texas, and their wives, Linda, Valerie and Mildre; grandchildren Liya, Jason, Lindsey, Andrew, Corinne, Ramon, Adam, Briana, and Natasha; great grandchildren Ezio, Isabel, Gabriel, Emma and Rosa; and numerous nieces and nephews; all of whom he loved dearly.

The family would like to extend its eternal gratitude to Maireny Soto, whose loving and dedicated assistance made it possible for Mike to remain at home, which was his wish, and to Connecticut Hospice, whose caring and compassionate staff provided him with wonderful care.

Calling hours will be held at Swan Funeral Home, 80 East Main Street, Clinton on Sunday, July 10, 2016 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 11, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at Swan Funeral Home followed by interment at Beaverbrook Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Clinton American Legion Post 66 PO Box 197 Clinton CT 06413.