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Melvin Lee Hartford

Melvin Lee Hartford passed away peacefully on April 21. He was born March 11, 1938, in Bridgewater, Maine, to Roland and Christine (Sharpe) Hartford.

“Uncle Mel,” as he was affectionately known, grew up in Maine and then moved across the country and made a life in Oregon. He was a landscaper and loved the outdoors. He relocated to Deep River after the passing of his wife Peggy of 46 years to live with his sister and reconnect with his family. Shortly thereafter, while volunteering at Kirtland Commons, he met his Mazie, and they spent the last 18 years together. He had a great passion for horses and enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially those at Kirtland Commons. He could often be found with the resident dog, Indy, sitting at his feet.

He is survived by his sweetheart Mazie Dennison; her children and grandchildren; his three sisters, Alberta Fazzino of Chester, Marie Santacroce (Frank) of Middletown, and Ruth VerHayden (Chuck) of East Haven; six nieces; two nephews; as well as several great-nieces and nephews.

A special thank you to caregivers Bette French, Noreen Monington, and April Corsetti to whom we are ever so appreciative. Uncle Mel will be greatly missed by all who loved him.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday April 29, at Winthrop Cemetery, Deep River. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kitchen Fund at Kirtland Commons, 60 Main Street, Deep River, CT 06417. Coughlin-Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High St, Middletown, is in charge of arrangements.