Obituary of Michael Amodeo

Michael R. Amodeo, 70, of Naugatuck, passed away peacefully with his family at his side after a brief illness at the Vitas Hospice Care Center located in St. Mary's Hospital in Waterbury CT, on Saturday January 18, 2014. He was the husband of Cheryl (Trasko) Amodeo. Mike was born at W.M. Backus Hospital in Norwich, CT, February 12, 1943. He was the only son of the late Peter and Josephine (Zigaro) Amodeo. Mike graduated from Norwich Free Academy in 1961. He served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1964 to 1970 at Ft. Dix, NJ. Upon his honorable discharge from the service he become a Master Barber, working in various independent shops until ultimately spending the last 10 years of his hair-cutting career at the Southbury Training School. After attaining degrees in Computer Science at both Mattatuck Community College and Central Connecticut State University he went on to become a Systems Analyst for Duracell in Bethel, CT. He worked there for the last 15 years of his professional career, and upon retirement took up nature photography and began volunteering at Flanders Nature Center in Woodbury, CT. He quickly acquired a deep passion for both endeavors - becoming known for his unique shots of bluebirds and sharing them with everyone at the nature center. He ultimately became an environmental educator, working closely with children from all walks of life, educating them about the beauty of nature that surrounds us all. He was known as Mr. Mike to everyone at the nature center. He leaves. In addition to his wife Cheryl, of 47 years; one son Michael and wife Jennifer, daughter Nichole and husband Matthew Titley, and grand-daughter Elizabeth V. Titley. He is also survived by his only sister Patricia and her husband Fred Serluca of Waterford, CT. He also leaves many cousins and close friends. Friends may call at the Alderson Funeral Home of Naugatuck, 201 Meadow St. on Thursday, January 23, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust, 5 Church Hill Road, Woodbury CT, 06798-1718, in the name of the Mr. Mike Memorial Bench Fund. The proceeds will go towards the purchase of a granite bench celebrating his time at the nature center. The bench is to be placed on the property for all to enjoy.