WOLCOTT ~ Michael J. Ignacio, husband of Diane (Gilhespy) Ignacio, 43, of Wolcott passed away Friday, October 12, 2012 after a courageous battle with cancer. Michael, the son of Mary (Halpin) Ignacio of Hollywood, FL, and the late Ronald Ignacio was born February 25, 1969 and spent his life in Wolcott. A 1987 graduate of Wolcott High School, Mike was a Corrections Officer for the State of Connecticut. He was employed at the Cheshire Correctional Facility, retiring at the onset of his illness. Michael was a lifetime member of the Wolcott Fire Department, Company #2, where he gave of his time and service generously. Michael was always the first to lend a helping hand. His love for his family and countless dear friends was the legacy he leaves behind. In addition to his wife, Diane of 16 years, and his mother, Michael is survived by his two children, Lyndsy and Michael, his four brothers, Ronald, James and Thomas Ignacio, all of Wolcott, and Robert Ignacio of Hawaii, three sisters, Catherine Ignacio of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Theresa Guerrera and husband, Mario of Oakville, and Donna Ignacio of Wolcott, his uncle, James Halpin of Boston, MA and aunt, Josephine Arcovio of Waterbury. He also leaves behind his mother-in-law, Barbara Gilhespy, his in-laws, Donald and Teresa Mills, Mark and Cary Fappiano, and Richard and Gina Hally, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. His canine companion, Bear, was always by his side. A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday at 10 am at St. Pius X Church, 525 Woodtick Rd., Wolcott with burial following at Edgewood Cemetery. Everyone is asked to meet directly at the church. Calling hours will be held on Monday from 4 to 8 pm at Woodtick Memorial, 420 Woodtick Rd., Wolcott. The family would like to thank Dr. Bowen and the staff at the Harold Leever Cancer Center, VNA Healthcare and the Wolcott View Manor Nursing Home for the care and compassion given to Mike during his illness. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Lyndsy and Michael Ignacio Education Fund, Wells Fargo Bank, 815 Wolcott Rd., Wolcott, CT 06716 ~ Attention: Mina Otajagic. To leave words of comfort to Mikes family, please visit www.woodtickmemorial.com

Service Information Service Tuesday October 16, 2012 10:00 AM St. Pius X Church 525 Woodtick Rd. Wolcott, CT 06716 -->