Michele Erling

Born on April 9, 1942, in New York City, Michele Roberta Erling passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, on September 28, 2026. Michele was a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother who dedicated her life to those she loved. She shared 53 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Michael Erling, before his passing on September 23, 2023.

Raised on Manhattan's Upper East Side, Michele spent her childhood immersed in the culture, arts, and energy of New York City. In her early twenties, she moved to eastern Connecticut, where she met a young sailor named Michael. Just a few short months later, they were married, beginning what our family has always considered one of life's great love stories.

Although she built her life in Connecticut, New York City never left her heart. She was determined to share its culture with her family, especially the magic of Broadway. Countless weekends were spent piling into the wood-paneled station wagon and making the drive into the city to see the latest hit musical. Those traffic-filled trips along I-95, with Dad behind the wheel, also taught us exactly what the phrase "swear like a sailor" really meant.

She found great joy in gardening and loved having her hands in the dirt. Mother's Day was more than a celebration in her honor; it marked the day she eagerly anticipated each year because it meant she could plant her flowers and welcome another season of growth.

One of Michele's greatest joys was caring for her grandson, Brian Jr., while his parents worked. The bond they formed during those years was special and enduring, making them truly inseparable.

Even in her final days, Michele remained steadfast and positive. She never faltered. She was our warrior, fierce in her strength, and an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the kindness she shared, and the resilience she embodied every day of her life.

Michele is survived by daughters Lisa (Brian) and Christina (Michael); grandkids Brian Jr. and Rylei; sisters-in-law Dianne and Debbie; nieces Tricia and Paula; and nephew Adam.

Please join us for a celebration of life at Church & Allen at 136 Sachem Street Norwich, CT from 3:00 – 5:00 PM on Sunday October 11. Following the celebration, there will be a funeral service at Church & Allen at 10:00 AM on Monday October 12. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to support cancer research at Yale Cancer Center.

Secure online gifts can be made by going to: https://givetoday.yale.edu/campaigns/67229/donations/new

Please designate “Immunotherapy Treatment Research.”

Checks may be made payable to Yale Cancer Center and mailed to:

PO Box 7611

New Haven, CT 06519

Please write “Dr. Tran” on the memo line.