COLCHESTER -It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that the family of Mr. Michael Joseph Perugini, age 80, of Colchester, formerly of Waterbury, share the news of his peaceful passing on Sunday, July 5th 2026, at Backus Hospital in Norwich, after a short but valiant battle with cancer. He was the beloved husband of Diane (Cipollone) Perugini.

Michael was born on February 8, 1946, in Waterbury, the son of the late Michael A and Mary Rita (McCormack) Perugini and was a proud graduate of the Kaynor Technical School’s Automotive Program, where he laid the foundation for a long and fulfilling career in the automotive industry. His professional journey included many years spent as a salesman at various local dealerships, culminating in his current role as an Outside Marketing Salesman for Costco. His dedication to his work was evident, whether he was serving customers in Florida or later in Waterbury and New Britain. He was a valued member of the Newington and New Britain Chambers of Commerce, where he contributed his expertise and passion for community engagement.

 A veteran of the United States Army National Guard, Michael proudly served his country and remained proud of his service throughout his lifetime. He was deeply committed to family and friends, embracing every opportunity to entertain them with his culinary skills. His cooking was a heartfelt expression of love—a passion that manifested in everything from freshly baked bread to homemade salad and dressings crafted from the vegetables he lovingly tended in his garden. Michael had a zest for life and a spirit of adventure, which was beautifully illustrated in his travels, especially to Italy. Most recently his experience of visiting the Vatican and attending an audience with Pope Leo XIV memories that he carried with him and shared with those he loved. In honoring Michael's legacy, let us remember his warmth, his love for cooking, and the countless memories he created with those around him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched.

 Left to honor his legacy and cherish his memory is his devoted wife, Diane, of 40 years together who will forever carry the memory of their life together in her heart. He also leaves his brother John Perugini his three nieces, Sara Perugini, Jennifer Ligi, and Katie Willette, as well as other extended family members and many friends. 

Funeral services for Mr. Perugini will be held on Monday, July 13th, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., when a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, 74 West Main St Waterbury, CT. Those planning to attend are asked to meet directly at the church. Military honors will be accorded immediately after the service, and committal services will be held privately at the convenience of his family. Relatives and friends may visit with the Perugini family on Sunday, July 12, 2026, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St, Waterbury, CT 06705. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Michael to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home website at www.caseyfunerals.com to leave a message of condolence to the family or send a gift or floral arrangement.