Monday, June 5, 2017
Our deepest sympathies to Tina, Brianna, Kendell, Kim, Kevin, Kathy and the rest of the Weldon and Andreucci families.
While growing up on Roosevelt Drive in the north end of Ansonia, I remember a short, skinny hurricane moving into the house three doors down from mine. This was 1972 and we were both ten. We quickly became friends along with Ray Cirisoli, and shared some terrific adventures over the years. We spent hours together playing neighborhood sports, or just talking about the future. As we grew older our adventures continued, many times ending up at Yankee Stadium, because we were all such Yankee fanatics. And through all of our hours and years together, Mike wanted nothing more than to be treated like everyone else. Whether playing tackle football at Colony Park, playing hockey, or joining the firehouse, Mike wanted to be involved. He knew better than anyone else that his condition was very serious, yet he never allowed it to be a crutch or an excuse. He worked as hard as anyone I ever met and always seemed to have two jobs.
Mike was a very simple guy, there were no complications or intrigue. He was who he was and if someone didn't appreciate that, well that was their loss because he wasn't going to change for anyone. No guesswork, just a good friend.
I remember him telling me once, a long time ago, that he knew he wasn't going to live as long as the rest of us, so he was just going to "do what I have to do". And he sure did! Mike was also the first person there whenever someone needed help, an effort that he continued throughout his life.
This space is too small for me to list all the good times and adventures that we shared over the years; nor do my few words adequately describe a life well lived. What I can say is that Mike taught me lessons in perseverance and the benefits of having such a zest for life, and to leave excuses at home because they are just a waste of time. Such good lessons for all of us to follow.
Rest in peace, my friend, and God speed- you have certainly earned it.
Kevin & Carrie
167 Wakelee Avenue