Michael F. Papa, Sr., 91, of North Haven passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 11, 2014 at the Connecticut Hospice, Branford .  He was the husband and now reunited to the late Carmel M. DeMatteo Papa.  Michael was born in North Haven on March 19, 1923; son of the late Nicola and Fannie DeLucia Papa. He was a member of the Operating Engineers Local #478 and had worked as a heavy equipment and crane operator for many area companies including DeFelice, Frione and Velleca Construction Companies. Michael also worked as a bus driver for the former Nutile Bus Company until his retirement; was one of the oldest members of the Montowese Volunteer Fire Association and was selected North Haven Citizen Newspaper “Person of the Week”. Father of Jacqueline (Gordon) Stokes, Theresa (John) Garbero, Phyllis (Billy O.) Papa, Maria “Chicky” Papa, Cathy (Stephen) Wilchynski, and Michael F. Papa, Jr. Brother of Anthony (Dorothy) Papa, Marie (Pasquale) Criscio, Theresa (Chris) Coppola, the late Nick and Evelyn Papa. Grandfather of Michael (Stacey) Stokes, Melissa and David Goduti, Jr., Anthony and John Garbero, Jr., Stephanie and Jessica Wilchynski.  Great-Grandfather of Christopher Stokes.  The family would like to extend a special “Thank You” to Michael’s home caregivers for the excellent care and comfort.

His funeral procession will leave the North Haven Funeral Home, 36 Washington Avenue, Saturday morning at 9:30. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at St. Therese Church at 10:00. Entombment will follow in the All Saints Mausoleum. The visiting hours will be Friday (TODAY) from 4-7pm.  Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to the CT Hospice, Inc., 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT  06405.