It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Andrew J. Catapano, 86, of West Haven, CT, on November 26, 2022, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Andrew, the youngest of seven children, was born on December 24, 1935, in New Haven, CT to Joseph and Theresa DePino Catapano. He graduated from Hillhouse High School in 1954 and continued his education at Boardman Trade School, specializing as an Automotive Technician. He faithfully served in the U.S. Army stationed in Germany from 1956-1958, and then went on to open his still-running business, Catapano Auto Body & Towing. He was incredibly proud of his huge billboard; visible from I-95, it boldly reads “Mr. C. Wants Your Body, Catapano Auto Body.”
Andrew cherished his winters spent in Florida, where he enjoyed swimming, golfing, bowling, and good friends.
He leaves behind his beloved family: his wife (and high school sweetheart) of 64 years, Virginia Pasquale Catapano; son, Robert (Cathy) Catapano of Orange, CT; daughter, Mary Ellen (Bradley) Albrecht of St. Marys, GA; five grandchildren, Michelle (Andrew) Lewis, Cindy Catapano, Jennifer (Tyler) Hodge, Andrew Catapano, and Emily (Alex) Renfroe; and five great-grandchildren, Rylee, Kaylee, and Braylee Lewis; and Jake and Ella Hodge. He also is survived by his loving sister, Viola Piscatelli, his many nieces, nephews, and life-long friends.
He was predeceased by his sisters, Madaline Casale, Virginia Amarone, Josephine Picone, and Ann Davis; his brother Anthony Catapano; his first-born daughter, Ellen Mary; and infant granddaughter, Elyssa Catapano.
His family would like to send a heartfelt thank you to those who have been instrumental in Andrew’s comfort and care throughout his long illness: Dr. Johanna LaSala, M.D. of Smilow Cancer Center and staff, and Homecare Plus Community Healthcare & Hospice and staff. Thank you for your unfaltering support and compassion throughout this very difficult time. Also, to Kathy and Louie Esposito of West Haven, CT- we will forever be grateful.
The hours for visitation will be held on Wednesday November 30 from 4-8 p.m. at the West Haven Funeral Home at the Green. His funeral procession will leave the funeral home on Thursday morning at 9:30 for a Mass of Christian Burial in the Church of St. Louis, Saint John XXIII Parish at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in St. Lawrence Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to HCP Community Healthcare and Hospice 753 Boston Post Rd. Suite 200 Guilford, CT 06437.
To leave an online condolence, visit www.westhavenfuneral.com.