Craig Michael Minella

 Craig Michael Minella, a most loyal and compassionate husband, son, brother, uncle and friend passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2023.  He is now resting peacefully having faced many challenges with grace, dignity, persistence and a sense of humor.

Born in Plainville on May 6, 1969, he was one of two sons to Diane (Kowalski) Minella Bailey of Old Saybrook and the late Ramon “Ray” Minella.  Raised and educated in Plainville, Craig earned a degree at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, a city that would go on to hold a special place in his heart for life.  He then went on to further his education earning a Masters degree in graphic design.  A critical thinker with a creative side, Craig held a successful career in the graphic design industry, having a passion for his work each and every day.  His persistent personality paid off when he married the love of his life, Leigh (Strauss) in 2008. They settled in West Haven near the beach and shared a mutual affection for music, concerts, sports, and the island of Aruba.  They frequented New York for Yankees games and Pittsburgh for the Steelers, and truly embraced and enjoyed each moment of their 14 plus years together.   An animal lover and cat dad to Cooper and Chloe, who will most be remembered for his fortitude, compassion, empathy, and selflessness, Craig loved deeply and will be missed beyond measure.

In addition to his wife, Leigh and his mother, Diane, he leaves his brother, Cory Minella, his wife Annette and their daughters, Courtney, Emily and Sydney to whom Craig was a devoted and fun-loving uncle.  He also leaves his mother and father-in-law, Dan and Carol Strauss; brother-in-law, Craig Strauss, his wife Tracey and their daughters, Julianne and Lauren; his sister-in-law, Pam Strauss and her children, J.D. and Anna Colarusso; and his second siblings, Jessica Bailey-Mastauskas, Jason Bailey and Jennifer Kosciukiewicz along with their families, as well as his beloved aunts, uncles and cousins.  In addition to his father, Ray, he was predeceased by his second Dad, Jim Bailey. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at www.cff.org/donate

A celebration of Craig’s life will be held on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville.  Committal will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery.  Family and friends may gather on Monday, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.  To share memories or messages of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com

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