Michael A. Dichiara III

It is with profound sadness and grief that we share that Michael Anthony Dichaira III, 60, of Waterbury has passed after a courageous battle with cancer. Mike was the loving husband of Rhonda (Giancarli) Dichiara for 27 blessed years. He was a big guy with an even bigger heart who loved his family, animals, his Harley and spending time with friends.

Born September 9, 1964 in Waterbury, he was a son of Michael and Susan Dichiara. Besides his beloved wife Rhonda and parents, Mike leaves his sister Charlene, Tom Barrera and their daughter Madison of Powder Springs, Georgia. Mike was so loved by his mother-in-law Frances Conway, father-in-law Joseph Conway and sister-in-law Sherry Giancarli as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. He also leaves his loving pets Opie, Rusty and Harley.

Being a truck driver enabled Mike to combine many of his favorites. For each of his delivery accounts he would give dog cookies to spoil the pups along his route. Many times he would call home and "discuss" bringing home a new stray found during his travels.

Michael loved to take his bike with Rhonda on scenic rides to Goshen to get his favorite beef jerky at Nodine's. On many trips to Boothbay Harbor, Maine Michael would order the largest lobster on the menu as he loved eating seafood. Trips to Newport, Rhode Island were also special times. Rhonda and Michael enjoyed movies in separate rooms as Michael loved black and white movies and westerns. He also loved listening to Frank Sinatra and Abba while he meticulously washed and waxed his bike and car.

Family and friends are invited to gather and share comfort with Mike's family on Wednesday evening at 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm in the Serenity Gardens of Prospect Memorial/ The Palmerie Family Funeral Home, 122 Waterbury Rd., Prospect. A service of honor and memorialization will begin at 6:00 pm in the garden followed by light refreshments. Prospect Memorial/ The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements and to care for Mike's family throughout their grief journey. Please visit prospectmemorial.com for directions, information and to share your condolences.