Michael Peter Terrio

Michael Peter Terrio, age 32, of Madison, CT, passed away tragically on August 22, 2025. He was born on December 30, 1992, in New Haven, CT, to Peter Joseph and Dara Lynn Terrio, and was the beloved brother of Ryan James Terrio.

Michael grew up in Madison. He graduated from Daniel Hand High School in 2011 and earned a B.A. from the University of Rhode Island in 2016, where he also served as a resident firefighter during his college years.

In 2016, Michael enlisted in the United States Army (Airborne) as an E4. He was deployed to Italy for two years, frequently traveling to Germany for training and maneuvers. He was promoted several times and was honorably discharged in 2020 with the rank of Sergeant.

Michael was known for his handsome, strong, and stubborn spirit, his quick wit, and his regimented discipline. Family and friends remember his contagious grin, his big dreams, and the way he cared deeply for others. Passionate and brave, he lived life with intensity and heart. His greatest dream was to have a family. At the time of his passing, he was looking forward to a new chapter ahead.

Michael loved spending his summers at the beach whenever he wasn’t working. He especially enjoyed meeting up with friends to ride at Cockaponset, always eager to rally the boys on their dirt bikes. He also cherished a cold beer and breakfast at Christy’s in Madison, a simple pleasure that brought him joy.

Family was at the heart of Michael’s life. He treasured time with his loved ones and never missed an event, always showing up with a smile and support. Mike was so eager to live, embracing every moment with passion, adventure, and love.

Michael was predeceased by his grandfather, Jay Dougherty of Madison, his grandmother, Mary Beth Terrio of Madison, and his uncle, William J. Terrio of Madison. He is survived by his parents, Peter Joseph and Dara Lynn Terrio of Killingworth; his brother, Ryan James Terrio and his wife, Tara, of Long Beach, California; his grandfather, William P. Terrio of Madison; and his grandmother, Donna Dougherty of Madison. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles: Sean (godfather) and Dana Dougherty of Arizona, Dan Dougherty of Florida, Jeff and Melissa Dougherty of Madison, Tim Terrio of Madison, and Mary Beth (godmother) and Steve Mapes of New Jersey; many cousins; and his true loves, Bella and Julia Veilleux-Tardif.

Services will be held as follows:

Wake: Thursday, August 28, 2025, from 4:00–8:00 p.m. at Swan Funeral Home, Madison.

Mass: Friday, August 29, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Margaret’s Church, Madison.

Burial: Immediately following Mass at West Cemetery, Madison.

Reception: Following burial at Fireman’s Field, Guilford.

All are invited to celebrate Michael’s life and legacy.

Contributions may be made to Hero to Hero Tribute in Michael's honor by visiting https://tinyurl.com/Michael-Terrio-Memorial

or by mailing contributions directly to: Hero to Hero, 247 Forest Lane, Cheshire, CT 06410-3720