Michel Martino Jr., 84, of Old Saybrook, died peacefully on June 1.  He was the loving husband of 57 years to the late Jeannine Martino. Mike was born in New Haven on Aug. 22, 1927, son of the late Michel Martino, Sr., and Concepta Riccatelli Martino. He served in the U.S. Army and met his future wife while attending the University of Connecticut, from which he received his bachelor’s degree in education. Mike and Jeannine lived in several small Connecticut towns before settling for the last 54 years in Old Saybrook. Mike taught at both Westbrook High School and Valley Regional High School before receiving his master’s degree from UConn. He then worked as a guidance counselor at Valley Regional High School until he retired.

Mike will be remembered as a great conversationalist, whether recalling tales of his childhood or discussing his great knowledge of history. He is also known for his love of cooking and his great compassion for animals.  His children will miss him dearly

Mike is survived by his six children and 12 grandchildren.

www.swanfuneralhomeoldsaybrook.com.

A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, June 16 at 9:30 a.m. at St. John R.C. Church, followed by burial with full military honors in Riverside Cemetery. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Middlesex Hospital Hospice Care at Middlesex Hospital, Forgotten Felines of Westbrook, or the Friends of the New Haven Animal Shelter in New Haven. The Swan Funeral Home of Old Saybrook is in charge of arrangements. For online tributes and condolences please visit