Michaele N. Budnik

Michaele was born in Hartford, CT, to John and Mary Emily Neville on December 12, 1942. She attended Windsor High School in Windsor, CT. She married Robert J. Budnik on August 28, 1965, in Windsor, CT. Michaele graduated from the University of Connecticut and earned a certification in baby nursing. She worked in the newborn nursery for two years before choosing to become a full-time homemaker to raise her four children.

Michaele dedicated 15 years of volunteering at Danbury High School in the Mothers and Infants Program. She was a devout Christian and Catholic whose generosity touched many. She supported St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Covenant House, the sponsorship of less fortunate children across the world, and Tunnels to Towers. Her commitment to service earned her multiple awards recognizing her for school volunteerism and devotion to her community.

Michaele is preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary Emily Neville; her cousin, Marcia Doohen; her aunt and uncle, Mary and Walter Neville; her cousin, Butch Neville; her cousin, Robert Brandenberger; her aunt and uncle, Stephen and Celia Dudzik; and relatives of the Deloretto family.

Michaele is survived by her loving husband, Robert J. Budnik Sr; her children, Robert J. Budnik Jr. and daughter-in-law Renata Budnik, John G. Budnik and daughter-in-law Davi Budnik, Aimee H. Budnik, and Jeffrey S. Budnik.

She is also survived by her sisters, Margaret Modzelewski and brother-in-law David Modzelewski, and Katherine Smith and brother-in-law David Smith; her nieces, Molly Burke and Katie Wilkinson; her sister-in-law, Marleen Grandia, and nephew, Peter Grandia, and her cousin Brian Neville and Cora.

Michaele absolutely adored her 8 grandchildren: Mathew Budnik, Miles Thomas, Ashli Budnik, Sofia Budnik, Kiley Thomas, Michelle Budnik, Luma Budnik, and Grace Thomas

A wake will be held at Green Funeral Home on Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. Funeral services will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, November 21, at St. Peter’s Church, with Rev. Fr. Gregg D. Mecca, officiating. Burial will follow at St. Peter’s Cemetery in Danbury, CT. Arrangements are being handled Green Funeral Home, 57 Main Street, Danbury, CT.

Michaele now rests in the loving presence with her Lord Jesus Christ at peace, renewed, and held in His eternal care. May her faith, kindness, and unwavering love continue to guide and comfort those she leaves behind.

Her favorite pastime was watching the UConn men’s and women’s basketball games. She had a passion for crocheting blankets by hand and donating to newborn babies.

For her love and care of children, memorial contributions may be made to:

Covenant House

https://www.covenanthouse.org/donation-options/donate or

St Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital

https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.