Charles M. Castellano Sr.

For the past seven years, he enjoyed living with his daughter’s family in New Canaan and was known lovingly as “Poppy” by his grandchildren and their friends.

Born on December 1, 1917, the son of Anna Maria Corcosa Castellano and Michael Castellano of Italy and married to the late Ida Riccio Castellano, Charles was a professional musician playing the saxophone, clarinet and flute and a member of the Stamford Local Musicians Union. He supported and worked in “Project Music” promoting affordable instrumental programs in the Stamford School system. He was also an avid golfer since the age of 11 and could often be found on the links at Hubbard Heights /E.J. Gaynor.

Charles was a proud Veteran of WW2, serving in Europe and Africa with the 313th Medical Battalion. He retired from Machlett Laboratories/Raytheon Company in 1983 after working for many years in the Production Planning Dept. with many longtime friends. He was a long standing and active member of St Cecelia’s Parish and the Knights of Columbus.

He was predeceased by all his brothers and sisters, Anthony, Rocco, Kate Johnston, Helen Palkimas, Lucille Iannazzi, and Margaret Piluzzo, and survived by his children Paula Castellano-Flynn of New Canaan, Charles of Pound Ridge, NY, and Perry of Agoura Hills, CA, grandchildren Chloe and Conor Flynn, and Mia Castellano, as well as several nieces and nephews. His family was where his heart was and he will be deeply missed by all.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 6, 2012 from 4-8 PM at The Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home 2900 Summer St Stamford, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday March 7, 2012 at 11 A.M. at St. Cecilia's Church 1184 Newfield Avenue Stamford, CT. Burial will follow at St John Cemetery, Darien. Words of comfort and sympathy may be sent to the family at www.leopgallagherstamford.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Visiting Nurse and Hospice of Fairfield County.