Michael Moreau

0

Michael Christopher Moreau of West Hartford, beloved husband of Marci (DeMeo) Moreau, died peacefully at home on July 16, 2016, with his entire family by his side. He was 58.

Michael was born in Hartford, Conn., on Dec. 10, 1957, and was predeceased by his parents, Aurelien and Annette (Soucy) Moreau. Michael was a graduate of East Catholic High School and Northeastern University. He was a well-known and acclaimed restaurateur and businessman, spending his entire life working in the hospitality industry, beginning his career as a bartender at Jai Alai in Hartford, and operating numerous restaurants including Coach’s Sports Bar and Grille, Azul, and Simmer and Sauce. Michael served as vice president, treasurer and board member of the Connecticut Restaurant Association, and was a member of Les Amis d’Escoffier Society.

His mantra in life embraced “enlightened hospitality,” and he truly believed it is all about how you make people feel. Michael served as a mentor to many, and was always willing to give someone an opportunity in the restaurant business. He often spent many hours helping others get their business ventures off the ground. Blessed with charisma, Michael was a friend to all who were fortunate enough to meet him.

Michael’s real success and true happiness came later in life when he married his wife, Marci, and acquired three stepdaughters, and soon after, the love of his life, his daughter Grace, was born. From a single man to living with a house full of women, which would later include his son-in-law Rob, he built a loving family that supported him through his challenges with breast cancer. Originally diagnosed in 2004, Michael chose life and love, and for the past 11 years he showed us the true meaning of a hero.

He found comfort with his family and his special group of Vineyard friends on the Island. He often said a glass of wine with Mimi and Sir (née Pat and Kerry Alley) on their deck, a day at State Beach, and a rum punch (or two) at Donovan’s was some of the best medicine available. His passion for food, wine, and family resulted in some of the most joyous holidays, milestone celebrations, and family dinners.

You were fortunate to break bread and raise a glass with Michael. Every meal shared with his family and friends was “delicious” to Michael, and our dinner table will never be the same!