Michael Joseph Acampora

Michael Joseph Acampora, 63, of Bristol, Connecticut, passed away unexpectedly on the afternoon of July 29, 2025, at the Hospital of Central Connecticut in New Britain. Born on June 26, 1962, in Bristol, he was the cherished son of Frank and Josephine (Labato) Acampora, Sr. Michael was a lifelong resident of Bristol and a proud graduate of St. Anthony School and Bristol Central High School Class of 1980. He continued his studies at Central Connecticut State University and later at Porter and Chester Institute, where he earned a Drafting Design Engineer and Mechanical Degree in 1984. He dedicated over 35 years of his career to the Associated Spring Barnes Group as a skilled Tool and Die Maker, earning the respect of colleagues and lifelong friendships. By far, the greatest joys in Michael's life were meeting and marrying the love of his life, Ann Marie (Stack) Acampora, and becoming a father to their beloved son, Joseph Michael Acampora. Married for 31 years since October 16, 1993, Michael was the ultimate "family guy." His bond with Joseph was unbreakable-sharing countless interests, coaching his sports teams, and simply being there for every moment that mattered. Michael was a proud Eagle Scout and earned the Order of the Arrow, reflecting a lifelong dedication to service, community, and leadership. He had many hobbies and passions, including collecting Santa Clauses and Hess Trucks, gardening, and debating politics (and yes-good thing we got this obituary written before the government tries to stifle them!) Michael also loved time at Point O'Woods and camping with family and friends. He was also a devoted fan of Star Trek, Deadpool, Marvel Comics, and anything that sparked his imagination. A car enthusiast through and through, he loved his CJ7 Jeep, rebuilt with his brother Frank, and cherished his Chevy Trailblazer and Dodge Dart. He was a loyal sports fan, cheering for the New York Mets, Boston Bruins, Seattle Seahawks, Portland Trail Blazers, and both the UConn Men's and Women's basketball teams. Michael's heart extended to his furry companions, who brought him endless joy: Boots (Border Collie/Shelty), Serena (Husky), and his cats Isis, Spanky, Sheba, and Long John "LJ." He loved to hit the road with his family, taking memorable trips to Maine, New York City, Great Barrington, MA, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Florida, and Wisconsin. Whether home or away, he made every place warmer, every moment brighter.

He is survived by his beloved wife Ann Marie, and their son Joseph Michael and his girlfriend, Sierra Cote-Adams, his parents Frank and Josephine Acampora, Sr.; his brother Frank Acampora and his wife Michele; his brother-in-law Joseph Stack; his uncle Anthony Labato, with whom he shared a birthday; his aunt and uncle Roseann and Bill Manton; uncle Salvatore "Duke" Acampora; aunt Barbara Acampora; aunt Sue Acampora; and many cousins near and far. He was predeceased by his Nonnie and Papa Acampora, Grandparents Mike and Elsie Labato, and Grandma Louise Claffey and Bill; his uncles Anthony Acampora and Vincent "Vinny" Acampora; his aunt Maureen Acampora; and his dear mother- and father-in-law, Violet and Cyril Stack. He had many special friends he held near and dear to his heart and they know who they are. Michael was a man who loved deeply, gave generously, and made the world better just by being in it. His family and friends will carry forward his humor, his strength, and his enormous heart.

We will be honoring Michael's family life with a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anthony Church, 111 School St., Bristol. Michael will be lovingly laid to rest at St. Joseph Cemetery, 522 Terryville Ave., Bristol. Family, friends, and teammates may call on Thursday, August 7, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Funk Funeral Home, 35 Bellevue Ave., Bristol.