East Lyme – Michael F. Boyle, 75, of Niantic, died suddenly in Belem, Brazil on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2018, after undergoing emergency surgery. He was on a transatlantic cruise with Karen (nee Lombardi), his wife of 52 years, together with dear friends.
Mike was born in Hartford, on May 27, 1942, to Virginia (Cleo) and James Boyle. He grew up in Hartford and spent the summers in Niantic at the beach, where he developed his love for the sea, boating and fishing. He graduated from Bulkeley High School and Trinity College in Hartford, and received his law degree from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
He and his family lived in Rocky Hill for several years, while Mike practiced law and served on the Town Council. The family later moved to West Hartford, when Mike changed careers, taking on the role of president at the family manufacturing business and working with the Connecticut Business and Industry Administration. In 2001 he retired to spend more time with his wife and family, and to pursue experiences that brought him joy, together with his family and friends.
Mike is survived by his loving wife, Karen; three sons, Michael (Cecile) of Seattle, Wash. , Charles of Niantic/Abaco, Bahamas and Kevin (Emily) of Seattle, Wash. He also leaves three grandchildren, Percy, Bridget and Cleo (just born, Jan.
26, 2018); his brothers, James (Beverly) of Hartford and Jerry (Kathy) of New London; and his niece and nephews, Allyson, Christian, Daniel and Brendan. He loved his children unconditionally, and was proud to have given them every opportunity for success. Likewise, he adored his grandchildren, niece and nephews; Mike was looking forward to meeting his newest granddaughter, Cleo, after the cruise.
Mike also leaves behind a large group of extended family and countless very close friends. He was a man who always put his family first, while also being there to support his dear friends, whatever was needed. Mike and Karen had recently moved back to live at the Connecticut shore full time, after 16 years spending the winters at Harbour Ridge in Palm City, Fla.
He was quick to make friends and loved to meet new people and learn about their lives. Mike was thrilled to be back in Connecticut where he could enjoy his boats, the Niantic Bay and life at the shore. His time was too short and he will be missed terribly.
The family takes comfort in knowing that he died while pursuing his passion for the sea, together with his wife, the love of his life and his best friend. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Mike on Friday, May 18th at 11AM at St Agnes Church, 22 Haigh Ave, Niantic. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the scholarship fund which provides financial assistance for youth sailing and education programs at the Mystic Seaport.
Checks should be made payable to the Mystic Seaport. Please reference Michael Boyle in the memo line and send checks to Mystic Seaport, 75 Greenmanville Ave, Mystic CT, 06355.
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