Michael R. Chupka

Michael Robert Chupka passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, November 1, 2018.  He was born on September 26, 1939 in Torrington and was the son of Andrew and Mary (Martinek) Chupka.

Mike or “Hounddog” as some knew him had a bark worse than his bite.  His crassness was outshone by his love for family and friends.  In his younger years, he could be found tinkering in his garage or basement; whether it be just everyday handyman projects or building and re-finishing furniture.  Mike was best when he was busy or working with his hands.  An avid baseball fan and Southpaw pitcher, he also enjoyed teaching the game.  He was a devoted Yankee fan who loved arguing strategy the day after a game with his long-time best friend Joe Piekos.  Mike and Joe would both look forward to their annual fishing trip to the Battenkill River in Vermont, laughing and bragging about who had caught the bigger fish.

But, besides his daughter Wendy and her husband, Stephen, his granddaughters, Emmy and Cassie, along with granddogs, Cooper and Toby, were the loves of his life.  He looked forward to their visits and loved seeing their report cards and listening to their stories.  Whether he heard them or not was another story.  From the fan section of the THS bleachers to a stool at the Berkshire, he was outspoken and made an impression everywhere he went and lived life on his own terms.  Mike is also survived by his brother, Andy and wife, Janice, sisters, Kathy and MaryAnn, a sister in law, Alice Ferrari and several nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his wife, Joyce, his brother in law, Roger Ferrari and his nephew, Steven Chupka.

Relatives and friends may call on Saturday, November 10, 2018, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Cook Funeral Home, 82 Litchfield St., Torrington.

Contributions in Mike’s memory can be made to the Steven Chupka Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Northwest CT Community Foundation, 33 East Main St., Torrington CT 06790 or the THS Varsity Alumni Club, c/o Paul Denza, 60 Wheeler Lane, Torrington, CT 06790.  Condolences may be sent to Mike’s family by visiting  www.cookfuneralhomect.com.