Obituary of Michael J. Vail

Michael John Vail, 72, son of the late Robert and Esther (McKean) Vail of Glastonbury, CT passed away peacefully on November 12, 2023.

Michael had an extraordinary appreciation for life.  He spent most of his early youth fishing or deep in the woods enjoying nature.  He could also be found on the baseball field, where he was a star shortstop at Glastonbury High School.

Michael went on to Lester Junior College and then Franklin & Marshall College to pursue his love for the English language and continue his athletic career. He was a star in baseball and soccer.  Returning home, he built a career in Sales, working for steel manufacturers Highway Safety, Buffalo Specialty Products, Trinity Industries, and as Vice President of Sales for Elderlee, Inc. He was not only an employee at Elderlee but part of the corporate family.

Michael was a deep thinker, offering profound advice to those he cared about. He mentored several colleagues and family members through transformative times in their lives. Enjoying life’s finer things was paramount in Michael’s happiness, whether it was taking the ride to the shore or sharing laughs over a fine meal. He shared his love of photography and music with close friends and family. He was a dignified man.

Michael was survived by his wife, Andrea, and children Kelly Vail, Michael Vail Jr. (Megan), Jaclyn Manager (Michael), Monica Page (Jamie), and Richard Hamilton (April).  Also left behind are 9 grandchildren, Gianni, Jax, Madison, Tyler, Connor, Sophia, Owen, Morgan, Taylor and soon to be born, Michael J. Vail III. He also leaves behind his brother Kim Vail (Doreen), their children Ryan and Jade, and his brother Josh Vail.

Calling hours will be Thursday, November 16, 2023 from 5:00-7:00 pm at Mulryan Funeral Home, 725 Hebron Ave., Glastonbury. The funeral service will be held Friday, November 17, 2023 at 11:00 am at Mulryan Funeral Home with burial to follow at Old Church Cemetery, Main St., Glastonbury. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to The Connecticut Audubon Society at www.ctaudubon.org. For online condolences, please visit www.mulryafh.com.