Girard Michael Antonino

Niantic - Girard Michael Antonino, 51, of Niantic, passed away Nov. 15, 2025, in New Haven, surrounded by his loving family. His vibrant spirit and unforgettable presence left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Born Dec. 12, 1973, in New London, Girard's energy lit up every room he entered from a young age. Whether he was howling down a hill in his Subaru Brat go-cart, cranking his stereo to full volume, or cheering with gusto at a football game, you always knew when Girard was around. His daily tales in the Girard Toyota showroom were legendary - he would burst in with a new story that left everyone laughing and shaking their heads in disbelief and delight.

Girard's love for football was lifelong and deeply rooted. He played linebacker for Waterford High School from 1988 to 1992, where he earned the nickname "G-Man" for his fierce play and commanding presence on the field. His talent led to recruitment by several colleges; he went on to play at Dean Junior College and later at Salve Regina University.

A devoted fan of the New England Patriots, Girard cherished attending games with his grandfather Girard, father John, Uncle Bill Stadler, cousin Jonathan Stadler, and his siblings. In recent years, he proudly continued this tradition by bringing his son to Gillette Stadium - passing down not just a love for the game, but the joy of shared experience.

There was no greater pride in sports for Girard than watching his son play for East Lyme Youth Football. From above, we know he watched with joy as little Girard ran onto the field waving the Vikings flag and holding the Super Bowl trophy high - while Charlotte cheered him on from the sidelines. These moments were everything to him.

Girard's passion extended beyond football into the world of automobiles. A diehard car enthusiast with encyclopedic knowledge of every make and model, he worked as sales manager at Girard Toyota in New London before becoming a part-owner alongside his brothers, Chris and Marc. One of his proudest projects was restoring a red De Tomaso Pantera - a car whose roaring engine announced Girard's arrival long before you saw him.

Above all else, Girard adored his children. Charlotte and little Girard were the center of his universe. He was a fun-loving dad who delighted in spoiling them with thoughtful - and often over-the-top gifts. His heart was immense and generous, a trait that lives on through them. They were his greatest accomplishment and lasting legacy.

Girard is survived by his beloved children, Charlotte and Girard Antonino; his parents, John and Linda Antonino; siblings, Jennifer (Rocco) Bracciale, Christopher (Leanne), and Marc (Katelyn) Antonino; nieces and nephews: John Edwin, Jamison, Antonina and Brady Wenc; Christopher, Layla, Summer, Lily, John Preston, and Annie Antonino; the mother of his children, Margaux Antonino; and their grandmother Nancy "Meme" Condon. He is also remembered fondly by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who loved him deeply. His love was reciprocal. He was predeceased by his grandparents, Girard and Jeanne Antonino and Michael and Bernice Dombrowski; as well as his oldest cousin, Sean McGowan - a figure whom Girard admired deeply and whose passing left a lasting impression on his heart.

The Antonino family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the MICU staff at Yale New Haven Hospital - especially nurse Kevin and the rest of the "Dream Team"- for their unwavering care and compassion during Girard's final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the "Cactus Jack Foundation" with "Girard Antonino" in the memo line. Scholarships will be selected by the family to financially support children in youth sports and activities.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him - and may the roar of an engine or cheer from a football field always remind us of G-Man's enduring spirit.

Viewing hours are from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, at Impellitteri-Malia Funeral Home, 84 Montauk Avenue, New London. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at Saint Joseph's Church, 149 Montauk Avenue, New London. Funeral services will assemble at 9 a.m. at Impellitteri-Malia Funeral Home prior to the service, with Interment to follow.

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