Michael E. Driscoll

Torrington- Michael E. Driscoll, 69, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital, Torrington, surrounded by loved ones who cherished him deeply. 

Michael was born in Torrington on May 4, 1957, the eldest son of the late Edward and Alyce (O’Sullivan) Driscoll, a family whose roots and contributions to Torrington run deep. Michael was raised in a lively home filled with music, dance, and community spirit. He developed an early, observant nature that would later shape his writing, his love of music, and his way of moving through the world. 

Although he always thought of Torrington as home, and hot dog carts as a starting point, he traveled and worked in country clubs and restaurants from Nashua, NH, to Sioux City, IA, to South Bend, IN, and back again to the northeast hospitality scene as ski lodge manager, business owner of Driscoll’s Rotisserie  (the Chicken Man), Torrington Bed and Breakfast, Driscoll’s Antiques and more.

 Michael was known for his boundless energy, sharp memory, and deep affection for the town he called home. For many years, he shared his reflections and recollections in his column “Mike’s Memories” for The Register Citizen, where he captured the small moments, local characters, and everyday history that make a community feel like family. His writing touched many, preserving pieces of Torrington’s past with warmth, humor, and a storyteller’s heart. One of his proudest moments was being named Lord Mayor of Torrington on St Patrick’s Day in 2024.

Michael found joy in camping at Copake, his lab, McCoy, and always had a pocket full of dog cookies ready for any dog he encountered. He loved skiing, uncovering that special memento or antique, attending concerts, and walking the familiar streets of Torrington, CT; Fort Myers Beach, FL; and all of Cape Cod.  His love of music led to impromptu recitals, playing the piano at the Red Lion in Stockbridge, MA, at Valerie Manor in Torrington, or at the Light House Inn on Cape Cod. He loved Christmas and Saint Patrick’s Day, and many friends fell victim to his famous April Fool's Day jokes. 

Michael’s family takes comfort in knowing he is reunited with his parents, whose love shaped him, and that his stories — both written and remembered — will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Survivors include two brothers, David West of Thornton, CO, and Gerald Driscoll of Chesapeake Beach, MD; and two sisters, Mary Rondot of Louisville, KY, and Patricia Vecera of Anchorage, AK; many nieces and nephews; and his partner, Carol Tasciotti of Chicago, IL.

Calling hours will be held on May 28th, 2026, from 4 pm to 7 pm at Gleeson-Ryan Funeral Home, 258 Prospect St., Torrington.  A Celebration of Life will be held on May 4, 2027

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Michael’s name to Torrington YMCA Camp MOE 

Online: Make a secure online donation at nwcty.org/donate.

By Mail: Send a check payable to “Northwest CT YMCA” with “Mike Driscoll for Camp MOE” in the memo line to: Northwest CT YMCA 259 Prospect Street Torrington, CT 06790

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