Obituary: Michael R Hildreth Sr., 66, of East Haven

Obituary courtesy of East Haven Memorial Funeral Home:

On Wednesday, March 13, 2024, Michael R Hildreth Sr., passed away peacefully surrounded by his family after a strong and courageous battle with cancer. Michael was born on January 15, 1958, in Waterbury, CT to Robert (Ringo) and Ann (Annie) Hildreth.

Michael was a graduate of Naugatuck High School. He proudly served 4 years in the United States Navy. He retired early after over 25 years as a truck driver for UPS Freight. In his retirement he could be found watching UConn basketball games with his wife, watching NASCAR, racing go karts, and grilling food for family get togethers. For years he was a member of Club Corvette of CT. One of his most proud moments was winning a trophy in his first ever car show.

He found The Shoreline Trolley Museum and it became his second home. He made many friends at the museum whom he talked about often. Michael made a lasting impression on anyone he met, and if you knew him, you surely had the pleasure of listening to one of his stories. We’ll miss those long stories now.

Besides his parents, Michael is survived by his loving wife of 17 years, Donna Page, daughters Cheryl Hildreth (Billy Testone), Shannon Fetcho (late Henry Fetcho), Son Michael Hildreth Jr, sisters Jennifer (Joseph) Ragozzine, Tina (Mike) Churchill. Grandsons Justin Garafano, Nathan Garafano, Colin Hildreth and granddaughters Cadence Fetcho and Lillian Hildreth. He very much loved his nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his loving brother Joseph Hildreth (Lorraine).

A memorial service in Michael’s honor will be announced by the family at a later date. The family would like to thank the amazing nursing staff at Yale New Haven Hospital on his behalf that provided care in his last few days.