Michael DeFrancesco, Sr., 78, of Higganum, beloved husband and companion of 43 years to Pauline (Fontaine) DeFrancesco, passed away Monday September 5, 2022. Ironically, the hardest working man we know took Labor Day off.

He was born in New Haven, the son of the late Joseph and Matilda (Riccitelli) DeFrancesco and was predeceased by his brother, Joseph DeFrancesco of Waterbury. Prior to his retirement, and most recently he was the Equipment Repair Specialist with O2Safe Solutions (TGP).  As a graduate of the University of New Haven, he first became a teacher in the Middletown school system.  Over the years, he was a farmer, businessman, and above all, a role model for his children and grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children and blended family, Michael DeFrancesco, Jr., and his wife Nora of Cheshire, Joseph DeFrancesco and his wife, Alicia of Middletown, and John DeFrancesco of Newington, Stephen O'Meara and his wife, Denise of Mineral VA, Denise O'Meara of Bloomfield, and Jim O'Meara and his wife, Georgia of South Windsor; brother, Paul DeFrancesco and his wife, Ellen of Cheshire; sister, Erma DeFrancesco of Waterbury; sister-in-law, Adele DeFrancesco of Waterbury; eleven grandchildren and a great grandchild; also several nieces and nephews.

His Funeral Liturgy will be held Saturday (Sept. 10 ^th ) at 10 a.m. at St. Bridget of Sweden Parish, 175 Main St., Cheshire.  Burial will be at the convenience of the family.  There are no calling hours. Those who wish may send memorial contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or at https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.