Michael J. Longo

Michael J. Longo, 84, of Newington, CT, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a brief illness. Born on January 31, 1941, in Hartford to Rocco and Antoinette (Rinaldi) Longo, Mike grew up in the Elmwood section of West Hartford and attended Conard High School.
From a young age, Mike worked alongside his father in the family's business, where he discovered a lifelong passion for construction and operating heavy machinery. His work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit led him from a foreman position at Atlantic Tool and Machine to founding his own business, Michael J. Longo Excavating-Paving-Sewers, following in his father's footsteps. In 1987, he sold the company and launched Longo Trucking Inc, serving as an independent contractor for Tilcon and paving roads across Connecticut for more than two decades. He will be remembered by many for having the cleanest and most polished red Mack dump truck around.
Mike was a true jack-of-all-trades; there was little he couldn't build or fix. From stained glass to engine repair, from woodworking to welding, he threw himself into every project with skill and enthusiasm. He was always quick to lend a hand to friends in need and took great joy in working with his hands.
Cars were one of Mike's greatest passions. In his early twenties, he could often be found at Sesames' Car Hop or cruising the Berlin Turnpike in his '57 Chevy, always on the lookout for a race. Over the years, he restored many vehicles - including a Ford T-Bucket roadster - and later on in life developed a love for Cadillac's along with his prized Corvette. His enthusiasm for cars extended to NASCAR racing, spending winters in Daytona for Race Weeks, cheering from the stands at Stafford Motor Speedway or tuning into races every Sunday from home.
Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Penelope "Penny" (Bryant), who lovingly called him her "Mr. Fix-It." He leaves behind two sons, Robert and his wife Romana of Newington, and Todd of East Hartford; and his cherished grandchildren, Austin, Robert (RJ), and Isabella. He was predeceased by his sister, Rose Marie McCann of Granby.
His warm humor, vivid storytelling and generous spirit will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all that knew him.
Calling hours will be Sunday, (June 29), from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Sheehan Hilborn Breen Funeral Home, 1084 New Britain Avenue, West Hartford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. on Monday, (June 30) at St. Mary Church, 626 Willard Avenue, Newington, followed by burial at Fairview Cemetery in West Hartford. Online condolences may be shared at www.SheehanHilbornBreen.com To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael, please visit our floral store.