WATERTOWN - Michele (DiSalvo) McHugh left this world on May 25th, 2026. Her one hope was that she left a positive impact on the lives of those whom she touched, and that she undoubtedly did. Her husband, Jack, was the love of her life and her best friend. She loved traveling with her husband, and together they journeyed around the world, creating countless memories and sharing adventures that brought them even closer together. She was a cool Mom to her children, Katie, Jeff, her second son, Owen, her second daughter, Carly, and of course, Snickers and Clyde. Her grandchildren, Mason and Harper, who lovingly knew her as “Gram,” were the lights of her life. She was always there for them through every moment in life - offering guidance, support, laughter, and unconditional love. More than just their mother and grandmother, she was truly their best friend.

Michele was born in Waterbury on April 30, 1958, the daughter of Frank and Margaret (Henebry) DiSalvo, with whom she is now lovingly reunited, surely watching Yankees games together in heaven. She attended the now-defunct Notre Dame Academy throughout grammar school and high school. She had recently been helping to plan her upcoming 50th high school reunion this fall, something she was very much looking forward to celebrating with her classmates and dear friends. After high school she attended Providence College. Her time as a Friar was remarkable and she made many lifelong friends.

She was a tremendous athlete who excelled throughout her life. In college, she played two Division I sports, women’s track and women’s lacrosse, showcasing both her talent and determination. She also proudly played on the St. Mary’s Hospital softball team. In recent years, she took up golf alongside her husband, creating many cherished memories together on the course. True to her independent spirit, however, she never quite wanted to listen to him explain what to do or how to improve her golf game.

Michele began her career as a Medical Technologist at St. Mary’s Hospital, where she met the love of her life, Jack. She worked at several hospitals in Chicago, IL and Cambridge, MA, working as Managing Director for Quest Diagnostics New England and completing her career with her friends at Quest Diagnostics in Wallingford. After her retirement, Michele began her second career as an owner of Hawk Ridge Winery in Watertown. She also thoroughly enjoyed working with her son-in-law, Owen, at his business, Dogtopia of Milford.

Despite being one of the busiest people anyone knew, she always made time to give back to others. She was a past president and proud member of the Rotary Club of Wallingford and was honored with two Paul Harris Awards from two different clubs in recognition of her dedication and service. She also jokingly earned the title of “Eagle Scout,” as she practically completed many of the tasks that helped her son achieve the honor himself. Michele was recently elected Vice Chairwoman of the Watertown Town Council; a position she was deeply passionate about as she worked to make her community a better place for everyone.

In her own words, she shared that she will miss her family terribly. Michele wants to thank all of her family, friends, and everyone who brought such happiness in her life. She loved deeply and touched the lives of so many people, and she will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Michele always sought to make the lives of those around her better, bringing kindness, laughter, and happiness wherever she went.

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget the impact you’ve had on their lives.”

A Memorial Gathering for Michele will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 5:00 until 8;00 p.m. at Hawk Ridge Winery for relatives and friends to pay their respects and visit with her family. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St Anthony of Padua Church, 49 South St, Litchfield, CT, with Monsignor Robert Tucker, a dear friend of the McHugh family, officiating. Burial will follow in Mt Olivet Cemetery, Watertown. In keeping with Michele’s generous spirit and dedication to the town, her family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Watertown Parks & Recreation Department in her memory at 61 Echo Lake Road, Watertown, CT 06795. Please note “In Memory of Michele” with any contribution. The Casey-O’Neill Funeral Home, 742 Main St, Oakville, CT 06779, has been honored to care for Michele and her family during this most difficult time. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Michele to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to connect with the family or honor their loved one’s memory with floral arrangements and other gifts of condolence.