He Helped Build Enfield’s July Fourth Tradition

ENFIELD, CT — Michael “Mike” Arthur Tippo, a founding director of Enfield’s Fourth of July Town Celebration and longtime community volunteer, died Oct. 16. He was 82.

His son-in-law, Mike Cotnoir, said Tippo helped start the celebration about 40 years ago. Funeral director Jacqueline Teske described him as a longtime celebration volunteer who was also active in the Enfield Jaycees and served in the Air Force.

According to his obituary, Tippo lived in Enfield for 52 years and chaired the celebration committee for many years.

“It was his pride and joy, and he loved seeing people of all ages enjoy an affordable weekend together,” his obituary says.

His service included decades with the Enfield Food Shelf, the Planning and Zoning Commission and leadership of the Friends of the Enfield Senior Center. He received the Enfield Patriot Award in 2017.

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Services This Week

Visiting hours are Wednesday, Oct. 21, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels, 61 South Road.

A funeral Mass is Thursday, Oct. 22, at 11 a.m. at Holy Family Church, 25 Simon Road. Attendees should meet directly at church. Military services follow at 1 p.m. at Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1390 Main St., Agawam.

Tippo is survived by his wife, Georgianna, two daughters and two grandchildren, among other relatives. The family asks that memorial donations support the Enfield Food Shelf. Condolences may be shared through his online memorial.

For more Northern Connecticut news, follow Patch editor Jay Kenney.