Emil "Buddy" Altobello Jr.

Emil "Buddy" Altobello Jr.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Emil "Buddy" Altobello Jr., 75, of Meriden, Connecticut. Surrounded by loved ones, Buddy passed away on Feb 6th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of commitment, kindness, and unwavering devotion to his community.
Born July 8, 1949, Buddy grew up in Meriden and attended city public schools before graduating from the Wilbraham Academy. In 1987, after discussions with family and friends, the call of public service captivated Buddy, and he was elected to the Meriden City Council. While serving the city, Buddy was the chief architect of no less than five budgets. Experience he would eventually need when he was called upon to help the state as the Vice Chair of Finance, Revenue, and Bonding Committee and later as Chair of the Capital Preservation and Restoration Commission.
In 1985, Buddy retained his realtors license, but he was never driven by capital-his only true passion was helping people. Given opportunities to create wealth, he instead saw it as one friend put it his noblesse oblige to uplift those in need, always prioritizing service over self-interest. The idea of selling houses or chasing financial gain would have bored him to no end, but sitting with people, truly listening to their struggles, and finding ways to help-that was what made Buddy come alive and what he believed to be his true duty.
In 1994, he was elected to the Connecticut State House of Representatives. For the next 26 years, Buddy proudly represented the people of the 82nd District in the State House, placing their needs above all else. A man of principle and pragmatism, he was respected on both sides of the aisle for his integrity, his ability to bring people together, and his deep love for the city he called home. Buddy was a man who listened more than he spoke, a rare quality in a politician that made his words even more powerful when he did choose to wield them. This thoughtful approach to conversation and leadership earned him deep respect from friends, colleagues, and constituents alike, proving that true influence comes not from the volume of one's voice, but from the depth of one's compassion and understanding. As Deputy Speaker of the House, under two separate leadership teams, he used this skill set to secure state funding for numerous projects. His efforts helped shape Meriden for generations to come, a lasting testament to his dedication and love for the place he called home.
Beyond politics, Buddy was a man who cherished the simple yet profound values of respect, understanding, and kindness. He believed in the power of human connection, the importance of listening, and in the need for pragmatic solutions over partisan divisions.
In lieu of flowers or donations, we ask that you honor Buddy's memory by carrying his ideals with you as you travel through life: approach the world with an open heart, treat others with respect and compassion, and always seek common ground. Words especially meaningful in today's landscape.
Buddy Altobello may no longer walk among us, but his spirit will live on in the city he loved, in the people he served, and in the lessons he leaves behind.
Buddy is survived by his two sons, E.J. Altobello and Michael Altobello, his siblings, Lynn Altobello, Toni Goode, and Joel Altobello, and his family Roy, Nancy, Joann, Michele, Cricket, Adam, Meredith, and Madison.
Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Thursday, February 13th, at the John J. Ferry & Sons Funeral Home, 88 East Main St., Meriden, CT 06450, from 3-7 pm. A Memorial Service will be held at the funeral home at 7pm. Burial will be private. For online condolences, please visit jferryfh.com