Obituary: Carmine “Carmen” D. Crudo, 95, of Branford

BRANFORD, CT - (From Pistey Funeral Home) Carmine “Carmen” D. Crudo, age 95 of Branford and formerly of Stratford, passed away on Monday, January 3, 2022 in the Connecticut Hospice, Branford. He is now reunited in heaven with his wife of 57 years, Maria.

Carmine was born in Bridgeport to the late Giuseppe and Ida Crudo. He grew up in Bridgeport and then moved to Stratford with his family. When he was just 17 years old, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy.

Carmine honorably served two tours, one during WWII and one during the Korean Conflict. He was proud to serve his country and was also grateful to have the opportunity to see the world. He would often recount the stories of his travels, adventures, and antics to his friends and family.

When he was discharged from the Navy, Carmine returned to Stratford and it was there that Crudo’s Market was established and Carmine began his lengthy career as a quick wit, self-employed business owner. It was also in Stratford and through the store that, by a chance of fate and a little push by his mother, he met the love of his life, Maria.

Carmine married his love, Maria, and together they owned and operated Crudo’s Market in Stratford for 35 years while raising their three children. “Carminuch” and his wife became well known in the neighborhood for selling their homemade Italian sausage, meatballs, and sauces.

He was generous and kindhearted to his loyal customers. Carmine loved his neighborhood store and enjoyed his daily conversations with his customers that came and went throughout the day.Carmine was a devout Catholic and was very active in the Knights of Columbus, St. James Council and served as a Fourth Degree Grand Knight.

Later in his life, he moved to Branford and became a regular at the Senior Center. He was also very proud of his Italian heritage and immediately found a connection to anyone Italian.

Carmine loved being by the ocean, whether it was on his beloved boat in his younger years, going to the beach, or playing bocce with the boys.

Carmine is survived by his loving children, Vincent Crudo (Kristen) of Madison, Victor Crudo (Meghan) of Milford, and Marisa LaForest (Bradley), of Maine; treasured grandchildren, Vincent, Mia, Dante, Isabella, Maxwell, Lucas, and Tessa; sister-in-law Carmela Perelli; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, he was predeceased by his siblings Anthony, William, Joseph Crudo Sr., and Marianna Hicks.

Friends are invited to attend the funeral on Saturday, January 8, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Name of Jesus Church, 1950 Barnum Avenue, Stratford. Entombment will follow in St. Michael Cemetery, Stratford.

Friends may call the morning of the funeral from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the Pistey Funeral Home, 2155 Main Street, Stratford. Masks are required.

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to: Amity Charitable Trust, PO Box 8626, New Haven, CT, 06531, ATTN: Susan Charboneau.