On May 11, 2024, Steven Vincent DiLella escaped the mortal trappings of this world and is now exploring the universe. He passed after a courageous battle with lung cancer. He was surrounded by his family and his close friend. He was born Sept. 15, 1959, to Lola Carbone DiLella and the late Joseph A. DiLella. Steve was the third son of three boys and has one younger sister. There was never a dull moment in the DiLella home; Stevie made it even more challenging. He was born with a wild nature and a curiosity to tear things apart and rebuild them. Stevie’s motto was, “If you can break it, I can fix it.” He was a master mechanic and could possibly have made a lawnmower fly if given the challenge. He eventually opened his own business, Steve’s Power Repair.

Stevie had less than an average lifespan but did not live an average life. He did what he wanted to do, laughed at every chance, learned what he wanted to learn, fixed what he wanted to fix, and loved who he wanted to love, all while flashing his beautiful Stevie smile. Although death will come for all of us, we are never quite ready or prepared to lose those we love. Stevie made life just a little more interesting. We are convinced that even the Branford police will fondly remember Stevie and his political mobile, the car that he adorned with skull and bones, and political statements that offended those who didn’t appreciate Stevie’s eccentric stance on the world.

Stevie left us with so many memories and stories to tell that will keep us smiling forever. He will be mourned by his mother, Lola DiLella, and his siblings, Frank DiLella (Diane), Michael DiLella, and Charisse Holcomb. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and his long-time companion, Dani Ardolino. Also left to mourn his passing are many cousins, especially his cousin Michelle, who will miss his 3 a.m. calls just to see what she’s doing.

There was never a dull moment or a dull memory of times passed with Stevie. Happy trails to you until we meet again! We’ll see you in our dreams. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Steven’s name to the Branford Fire Department and Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter.