Obituary: Michael A. Cifarelli (Porto Funeral Homes)

Michael A. Cifarelli, 93, of Southington, formerly of West Haven, beloved husband of the late Filomena Guarino Cifarelli, passed away on October 5, 2026 surrounded by his family at Mulberry Gardens of Southington. Loving father of Gaudenzio “Enzio” (Patricia) Cifarelli of Prospect and Mario (Maria) Cifarelli of North Haven. Grandfather of Alicia (Michael) Simmons, Cara (Matthew) Heyman, Paul and David Cifarelli and the late Marisa Cifarelli. Great-grandfather of Luca and Mia Simmons and Siennna Heyman. Brother of Maria Vespa of Italy and the late Peter Cifarelli. Michael was born in Garaguso, Italy on January 29, 1933 son of the late Gaudenzio and Giuseppina Fanelli Cifarelli. Prior to his retirement, Michael was a groundskeeper for the Catholic Cemeteries Association of the Archdiocese of Hartford.

Michael often shared stories about his life in Italy working in construction and agriculture. He loved animals, especially goats, donkeys, dogs and cats. He would always talk about how he would milk his own cows, harvest olives for oil, and take care of the farm animals. He also loved music and dancing with his wife and friends at the West Haven beach. He enjoyed meeting new people, as well as talking and sharing laughs with his many friends and family members. Michael touched the hearts of many people that he met with his friendly sense of humor and personality. One of his most cherished roles that always made him proud and kept him smiling was grandfather (Nonnie) and great-grandfather. He will always be remembered by everyone as having a loving, generous and funny personality. His deep love for his family, dedication to his Italian heritage, and joyful spirit as Nonnie will remain the foundation of our family forever.

His funeral procession will leave the PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 830 Jones Hill Rd., West Haven SATURDAY morning, October 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Holy Infant Church at 10:30 a.m. Entombment will follow in Mt. St. Peter Cemetery. Family and friends may call SATURDAY morning from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Sign Michael's guest book online at www.portofuneralhomes.net.