John P. DeChello

John P. DeChello, 85, a lifelong resident of West Haven entered into rest on February 13, 2025. He was the devoted husband of the late Mary Keyes DeChello, who died just last June. They were married for 62 years. John’s large and loving family includes his three children John (Gina Funaro) DeChello, Mary (Anthony) Aveni and Jennifer (Paul Panamarenko) DeChello, five grandchildren Patrick (Mirljinda) Aveni, Kaitlyn, Kyle, Kevin, Kacey DeChello and their mother Nancy DeChello; great granddaughter Lily Aveni, siblings Dolores, George and Rose DeChello, Jane Martin and Patricia Aveni; many nieces, nephews and other family members. He was predeceased by his beloved son Joseph A. DeChello and siblings Mary Giannotti, Eleanor Squeglia, Victoria Innamorato, Barbara Godlewski and Louis DeChello. The DeChello family would like to thank the staff at B&M Homemakers and especially Marie Lazarre for their care of both our parents.

At the very early age of 14, John began working at the former Milano’s Meat Market where he worked as a meat cutter for many years, eventually buying the business with his brother George. After Milano’s closed, John continued his trade at several local food markets, including Farace’s Market, Orange and Lorenzo’s Deli, West Haven. Between work and family life, John found time to play softball and to be part of a bowling league. He devoted many hours to St. Lawrence School where he was actively involved in numerous functions, including as chair of the annual carnival. A music lover, he received lessons as a young boy on the accordion and taught himself piano and guitar. In warmer weather he loved to walk at West Haven beach with his "babe" Mary, and enjoyed many restful vacations in Stowe, Vermont.

A skilled gardener and amateur chef, his days off (Tuesdays) were often spent making dinners for the family. In later years he and Mary enjoyed watching many Boston Red Sox games. John’s sense of humor carried him through many challenges in life, and this was passed down to his children and grandchildren, helping make many treasured memories of family get-togethers, whether at holidays or quick weeknight visits. He gave us the gift of truly enjoying time with family, something that is invaluable and irreplaceable, an enduring legacy to be immensely proud of.

Visitation will take place on Friday morning February 21 from 10 to noon at the West Haven Funeral Home at the Green. A parlor service will begin at noon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut.

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