Dean A. Brainerd, 62; Formerly Of Hamden

HAMDEN, CT — (From Porto Funeral Home): Dean A. Brainerd, 62, of East Haven, beloved husband of 21 years to Cheryl Marcosano Brainerd passed away unexpectedly in his home on May 20, 2023. Dean was born on December 27, 1960 in Billings, Montana son of the late Bruce and Barbro Westberg Brainerd.

He graduated from Hamden High School and worked many years at Cummings Steel then continued his career at Metro North where he was currently employed.

Dean had several interests including riding his Harleys through New England as well as the mountains, living free. He also enjoyed the outdoors and traveling to Florida and Maine. He had a talent for metal sculpturing and was an avid fan of the New York Yankees.

Son-in-law of Jennifer DeFrank and the late Tony Marcosano and James DeFrank. Brother of Kevin (Carrie) Brainerd and Dawn Brainerd. Uncle of Kyle, Andrew, Elijah, Brianna and Anthony. Loving brother-in-law of Anthony (Rose) Marcosano. He also had many friends who were considered family including Jake Cillo and Angela Cillo Keane with whom he shared a special bond and his Boston Terriers, Jax and Jasper, who he cherished.

Family and friends are invited to a Parlor Service in the PORTO FUNERAL HOME 234 Foxon Rd. (Rte. 80) East Haven Sunday June 4, 2023 at 5 p.m. Interment will be private. Family and friends may call Sunday June 4, 2023 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, Dean’s wishes were to donate in his name to the Humane Society of CT or Smilow Children’s Cancer Center.

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Porto Funeral Home here.