Michael Robert Leogrande

Michael R. Leogrande, an amazing human, friend and family member passed on Monday, November 25, 2024 at St. Mary’s Hospital Vitas Hospice from a brief illness. Michael lived life on his own terms and took his favorite singer’s mantra to heart…he did it his way.

Michael was born on September 25, 1959, son of Barbara Leogrande Genovese and the late Charles Leogrande. He was the husband of Cynthia Reilly Leogrande. Also left to celebrate his life are his siblings, Charles Leogrande (Marian), Catherine Leogrande, Lisa Leogrande (Mike), Lynn Farrington (Mike), and Marion Ciarlo (Brett). He was the absolute favorite uncle to 15 nieces and nephews. He would want us to acknowledge his niece, Natalie Christiano, who he considered a daughter, as she devoted herself to Uncle Michael and Aunt Cindy through his illness. Everyone who met him enjoyed his unique sense of humor and larger than life presence.

Michael was a self-made entrepreneur and builder who later transitioned into project management on large commercial enterprises. He was a creative thinker and loved to look at problems from angles others hadn’t pursued. He loved debating issues of the world with his Mom on a weekly basis. Michael (never Mike) was mentored by his late grandfather, Domenic Liberatore and long -time family friend John Zampino who imparted much wisdom about life, wine-making, and his Italian heritage. Michael was a consummate dog dad and if you wish to honor him may do so by making a donation to: The Connecticut Humane Society by going to www.cthumane.org.

Michael’s ashes will be interred at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 669 Platt Road, Watertown, on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024, at 10 a.m. We invite friends and family to join us in this special moment of remembrance as we say our final goodbyes and honor his life and memory. There will be a celebration of life immediately following.