01/15/2026
Michael Tannian, 64, of Ridgefield, Connecticut, and formerly of Westchester, New York; Norwell, Massachusetts; and Monkton, Maryland, passed away peacefully at home on January 9, 2026, after a short but courageous battle with Glioblastoma, surrounded by those closest to him.
Michael was born on June 3, 1961, in New York, New York to Catherine (Kitty) Tannian and the late Michael (Mike) Tannian and was raised in the Bronx alongside his four siblings.
Michael was known for his athleticism and lifelong passion for sports. A standout high school athlete, he carried his talent into the collegiate level, playing basketball on scholarship in Nova Scotia, Canada. He shared that same love of athletics with his three daughters, encouraging us to find our own paths in basketball, lacrosse, and softball. He was our biggest supporter and always believed in us.
In 1991, Michael met the love of his life, Kelly, in the Hamptons. They married in 1995, and what followed was a 30+ year journey of loyalty and treasured experiences. Michael was Kelly’s biggest cheerleader, always supporting and encouraging her. They truly were soulmates and a team, raising a beautiful family together.
A proud Penn State fan, Michael never missed a football game, even when they tested his patience. He beamed with immense pride knowing that he had three Penn State graduates in his daughters.
He was equally passionate about music, especially Classic Rock. The Rolling Stones were his favorite, and he loved quizzing you on what song was playing, who was singing, and who was on the drums. He was also a car enthusiast, always researching and exploring his next ride.
Michael’s work ethic was remarkable. He retired as a Vice President of Enterprise Sales after 30 years of dedicated service to UPS, working tirelessly to provide for his girls and taking great pride in doing so. He always put his family first. Once retired, Michael loved being a present Pop and taking care of his mother.
Above all, Michael was devoted to his family and friends. He paid attention to what mattered most, always knowing our priorities and what was happening in our lives. His care, presence, and unwavering support left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.
Michael was blessed to have a group of the greatest lifelong friends from Woodlawn, affectionately known as “The Fellas” that he cherished as family.
Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Kelly; his daughters, Michele Giammittorio (George), Caeleigh (Stephen), and Claire; his grandchildren, Harrison and Annabel; his mother, Catherine (Kitty); his mother-in-law, Eileen Hoffmire, and father-in-law, Jack Hoffmire; his siblings, Peter (Shiovan), Eileen Houlihan (Terence), Noel (Margaret), and Johnny (Assumpta); his sister-in-law, Karen Serrano (Arcadio); his nieces and nephews, Dylan Houlihan (Daria), Johnny (Jackie), Ita, Sean, Ryan, Brian, Michaela, Liam, Luke, and Patrick; and a cherished circle of cousins and friends.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Seton Parish; 520 Ridgebury Road in Ridgefield, Connecticut. There will be no calling hours, and interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund will be established through Mount St. Michael Academy (Bronx, New York) in Michael’s name, with more details to follow.