Michael Joseph Matarese Jr.

WALLINGFORD - Michael Joseph Matarese, Jr., 93, died on March 11, 2022 at Connecticut Hospice in Branford, CT. He was the beloved husband of Sylvia (Rinaldi) Matarese for 66 years.

Mike was born in New Haven, CT to the late Michael and Laura (Cutrello) Matarese. Prior to his retirement in 1993, Mike worked as a Station Operator and Delivery Specialist for Jet Lines, Inc. Prior to that, he was a Wholesale Driver for Sealtest Dairies. He was also a World War II veteran, proudly serving in the United States Marine Corps. Mike loved listening to music CDs during the day and his iPod during the night. At times, getting music onto the iPod was an adventure. However, once loaded, he thoroughly enjoyed every minute. When roller skating regained popularity in the 70's no one was happier than Mike. Because his work schedule was irregular, he kept "the rollers" in his car, so he could skate when time permitted. Mike also liked dogs, horses, playing pinochle and the ocean. But most of all he loved spending time with his family.

Besides his loving wife Sylvia, Mike is survived by a son, Michael (Sara) Matarese, III of Fairfield, CT and daughter, Tish (Ilidio) Serra of Aurora, IL. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Michelle (Brian Livingston) Matarese, Christopher Matarese and Michael Serra.

A Memorial Mass with full Military Honors will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 19, 2022 at Church of the Resurrection, 115 Pond Hill Road, Wallingford, CT. Relatives and friends may attend a visitation on Friday evening, March 18, 2022 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the B.C. Bailey Funeral Home, 273 S. Elm street, Wallingford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mike's memory to Masonic Charity Foundation of Connecticut or Connecticut Hospice, Inc.  To leave a message of remembrance, please visit www.BaileyCares.com.