Michael S. “Mickey” Gilbertie, 86, of Newtown died May 4 at home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born September 17, 1928, in Westport, and was the son of the late Amy and Michael Gilbertie.

Having proudly served in the Korean War, Mr Gilbertie was a builder in the town of Westport for 40 years, and built his home in Newtown with detailed, heart-shaped stonework.

He enjoyed his basement workshop where he constructed furniture and cabinetry. An avid gardener, Mr Gilbertie enjoyed being in his garden day and night, sharing his crops with family and friends. During the latter part of his life, he enjoyed his time in the garden with his grandchildren, instilling in them a love for the same. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

His wife of 53 years, Joan (Pelletier) Gilbertie, his daughter Joanie Berluti, his son Steven Gilbertie, his grandchildren Ryan, Christian, and Addison Berluti, his brother Ralph Gilbertie, and several special cousins in Norwalk survive Mr Gilbertie. His brother Julius Gilbertie and sister Jean Silvestro predeceased him.

The family will receive friends at Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown, on Wednesday, May 6, from 5 to 8 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, May 7, at noon, at St Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road, Newtown. Interment with military honors will follow in Newtown Village Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 50, Memphis TN 38101-9929, www.stjude.org; or Regional Hospice and Home Care, 30 Milestone Road, Danbury CT 06810, or www.regionalhospicect.org.

To leave an online condolence visit www.honanfh.com.