Michael F. Catalano

Michael F. Catalano (Mike), 64, of Saint Petersburg, FL, formerly of East Haven and Guilford, CT passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 14, 2015, after a long and courageous battle with lung cancer and COPD. Mike was born on January 26, 1950, he grew up in East Haven, CT where he was actively involved with the Riverside Fire Dept. for many years and was made a lifetime member. He married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Kathleen Lecza, in 1971. He served in the National Guard from 1969-1975 and was extremely patriotic. He moved his family to Guilford, in 1979, where he and Kathy raised their 3 children until 1992 when they moved to Englewood, FL. Mike worked in Maintenance and once in Florida, was fortunate enough to find a job that allowed him the time to become an avid golfer and boater. He loved being on the water with his family and golfing with the many friends he made. Mike retired a few years after moving to Saint Petersburg, where he enjoyed being close to the water, going to Rays games, and spending time with his family. He is survived by a large and loving family; Wife of 43 years, Kathleen (Lecza) Catalano, and his three children, Michael (Melanie) Catalano Jr. of North Port, FL. Ellen (Patryk) Ziarnicki of North Port, FL and Triscia Catalano of Saint Petersburg, FL, four grandchildren, Alexa and Olivia Catalano, Katelyn Ziarnicki, and Brooke Mazza. He is also survived by two sisters, Karen (John) Ferraro and Agnes (James) Leary of East Haven, CT and brother Clement (Robin) Catalano Jr. of Dayville, CT. He is predeceased by his parents Clement and Anna Catalano of East Haven, CT and grandson Sean Thomas Barrett of Bradenton, FL. A Memorial Service will be held at Anderson McQueen Tyrone Family Tribute Center, 7820 38th Ave N. Saint Petersburg, FL on Saturday, January 24, at 11:00am. Mike was a big advocate in helping recruit donations for Nick Watson, the only survivor in the accident that took his grandson. To carry on his passion for helping Nick, in lieu of flowers, we are requesting donations be made towards Nick's recovery, online at www.gofundme.com/is50mg or by mailing a check or money order payable to Vicki or Greg Lansen to 4210 Ironwood Circle #507 Bradenton, FL 34210. In the memo line please include Mike Catalano to benefit Nick Watson.