Shrewsbury – Michele A. (Faford) Manzello, 47, of Shrewsbury, devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend, passed away at the Ichabod Washburn Hospice Residence Sunday, March 17, 2013, with her cherished family by her side, after a valiant battle with cancer.
Michele was born Aug. 16, 1965 in Worcester, one of three children. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Robert J. Manzello; her beloved son, Anthony Manzello; her parents, Edward and Barbara (Sullivan) Faford; and two brothers, Edward Faford and his wife Brenda and brother Bob Hughes. She also leaves her nieces, Tara, Kelly, Amy, Tracy, Caitlin, Michaella, Paige, and her nephew, Tanner, as well as great-nieces, great-nephews, and many friends.
Michele grew up in Grafton and graduated from Grafton High School class of 1984. She then continued her education at Southern Massachusetts University (now UMass Dartmouth), earning her bachelor's degree in Science from Worcester State University.
She started her career as a chemist at the Wyman Gordon Company, where she met the man who would become her soul mate and devoted husband for the next 22 years, Robert Manzello. Most recently, she was a forensic chemist at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, where she worked for more than 10 years before retiring due to illness.
Michele was a dedicated wife and mother, who found her greatest joy in caring for her family. Her son, Anthony, whom she placed number one in her life, was her pride and life's inspiration. She had a wonderful sense of humor and an infectious smile that would light up any room. She enjoyed entertaining at her home, especially during the holiday season.
Michele could routinely be found working out daily in the gym or golfing at Tatnuck or Mount Pleasant Country Clubs. She loved the beach, gardening, and attending her son's sporting events.
Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Thursday, March 21, from 4 to 7 p.m., in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME AND CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester. Her funeral will be celebrated Friday, March 22, at 10 a.m., in St. John's Catholic Church, 44 Temple St., Worcester. (please go directly to church). Entombment will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton.
In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances in her name can be made to the Ichabod Washburn Hospice Residence, 1183 Main St., Worcester, MA 01603.
