Obituary: Michael J. Roche, 67, Of West Haven

WEST HAVEN, CT — (From Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home): Michael John Roche, 67, of West Haven, passed away on April 26, 2021 at CT Hospice in Branford, CT. He was born on December 28, 1953 in New Haven to Shirley (Wilde) Roche and the late William Roche Jr. Michael is survived by his seven siblings: William F. Roche III of Clinton, CT; James P. Roche (Phyllis) of Melbourne, FL; Karen Pompano (Anthony) of East Haven, CT; Paul Roche (Cathe) of Pembroke, NH; Christopher Roche (Lisa) of Amherst, NH; Kevin Roche (Nancy) of Clinton, CT; and Kimberly Roche of Bethany, CT, along with numerous nieces/nephews.

Michael moved into the West Haven Community House in 1984, which he was able to call home for the next 37 years. Michael often enjoyed attending Social Club, West Haven Adult Education courses and day trips to the casinos and restaurants. He loved to travel and some of his most enjoyable trips were to South Carolina, Florida, Maine and a Canadian Cruise.

Michael worked at the TEC Center of the West Haven Community House where he completed janitorial & maintenance work from 1984 until his retirement in 2015. Michael enjoyed his later years by attending the Community Connections SMILE’s Program where he was able to take part in day trips and activities with his peers.

Michael touched so many lives over the years. He was truly a ladies’ man from showing off his fancy dance moves to flashing you that great big smile. He always had a way to attract the ladies that made him stand out.

Family wants the many staff at the West Haven Community House, in both Residential and Day programs to know how much we appreciate them. We would also like to thank CT Hospice in Branford who provided wonderful care and comfort.

Family will receive mask-wearing friends on Thursday, April 29, 2021 at the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home (Clancy Funeral Home), 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven from 9 a.m. until 10:40 a.m. at which time his funeral procession will leave for an 11 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish at the Church of St. Vincent de Paul, 80 Taylor Ave., East Haven with Committal to follow at East Lawn Cemetery.

Donations in his memory may be made to West Haven Community House Endowment Fund in memory of Michael Roche, 227 Elm Street, West Haven, CT 06516. West Haven Community House has set up a specific segment for Community Connections Programs that would be able to have Michael listed specifically if desired.

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home here.