Neil Proto, formerly of Hamden died June 11, 2012 after a valiant struggle with heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Neil was born in New Haven on December 2, 1919 to Frank and Irene Longobardi Proto. He was one of seven children. Neil was a veteran of World War II who served in both the Pacific and European theaters and was retired from the State of Connecticut Tax Department. Neil is survived by his son Donald Proto, daughter-in-law Elizabeth Proto of Cheshire, his son Frank Proto, daughter-in-lawJacqueline Proto of Enfield, Grandson Justin Proto of West Haven and Granddaughters, Michelle Rose of Glastonbury, Rebecca Rugg of Connan, New Hampshire, Angela Proto of Muenster, TX and Maria Proto of Brighton, MA. He also leaves behind two great grandchildren, Neil Rugg and Cailin Rose. Neil Proto is survived by his sister Annette Falcon of Hamden and his divorced wife Gilda Proto also of Hamden, as well as several beloved nieces and nephews. Neil was pre-deceased by his wife of forty-five years, Genevieve Davia Proto and by his siblings, Frank Proto of CA, Marie Connie Bagnasco of East Haven, Camille Cioffi of Hamden, Anne DePalma of North Haven and Andrew Proto of GA.
Funeral services will be conducted in the North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue, Saturday morning at 9:30 with the Rev. Timothy Meehan officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow in Beaverdale Memorial Park. The visiting hours will be Friday from 4 to 7 pm.