Anthony Nicholas Trufan obituary: Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home, East Haven

Anthony Nicholas Trufan, 54 of Branford passed away unexpectedly at home on February 11, 2026. He was born December 15, 1971 in Meriden CT to Michael and Dorothy (Martino) Trufan. Anthony is survived by his mother, Dorothy “Dottie” Trufan of Branford, wife, Amy (Hermann) Trufan of East Haven and their two children; Grace Trufan (Dylan Wilson) of Branford and Elijah Trufan (Angelina Rivera) of East Haven and a sister, Andrea Trufan of Milford.

Anthony is preceded in death by his father, Michael Trufan (2021).

Anthony was a lifelong craftsman and carpenter dedicated to turning his skill into art. He always had a project going whether it be something to be done at his beloved family cottage in Mansfield Grove, a model he was working on, master stairs and intricate crown molding for jobs, and most recently his passion was carpentry at Dutch Wharf Marina.

Anthony grew up in Hamden, but if you were to ask him, the childhood and life he remembers most fondly would always be the summers with his friends and family at Mansfield Grove Campers Association in East Haven. He had so many happy memories from causing chaos as kids, becoming adults with all his friends, getting married, to eventually being able to bring his own children to the cottage to be with all the families who helped raise him including the Towers, the Regans, and the McCarthys.

Anthony was a free spirit who enjoyed music, creativity, and nature. He’s been to more concerts than anyone can count, including his beloved Grateful Dead, who brought him many friends who were lifelong “dead heads” including his best friend Sam Velleca. Most days you could find him playing Rock and Roll on a battery powered speaker, teaching his children some of his favorite things like how to clam off of Kelsey’s Island, starting a garden, or beating a boss in a video game. One of the greatest lessons Anthony taught his children is that family is not just your blood, but the people you find along the way. In addition to Grace and Elijah, Anthony leaves behind his bonus kids Julissa, PJ, Alexis, and Alana.

Anthony loved nothing more than a good long nap, in a hammock, a pool raft, or just a chair. He hated nothing more than being woken up. Now may he rest in peace.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday February 18, 2026 from 4 PM until the time of service at 6:30 PM in the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home, 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven. Burial will be private.