Carmel 'Chubby' Fico, Longtime New Haven Resident, Dies at 85

Fico was known for her homemade meatballs and loved spending time with family and friends.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Carmel 'Chubby' Fico, a longtime resident of New Haven, Connecticut, passed away on March 3, 2026 at the age of 85. Fico is survived by her husband of 56 years, Pasquale 'Pat' Fico, two children, two stepchildren, five grandchildren, and one great-grandson, as well as her sister and numerous nieces and nephews.

Why it matters

Fico's passing marks the end of an era for a beloved member of the New Haven community, known for her warm personality, family-oriented lifestyle, and culinary skills. Her life story reflects the changing demographics and cultural traditions of the region over the past several decades.

The details

Carmel Fico was born on April 11, 1940 in New Haven to Lillian Antoinette Garguilo. She worked at the West Haven Housing Authority, Reitman Personal, and American Residential Mortgage Company over the course of her career. Fico was remembered for her love of spending time with family and friends, going to the casino to play the slots, and bowling. She was also known for making 'the world's BEST meatballs'.

  • Carmel Fico passed away on March 3, 2026.
  • Fico was 85 years old at the time of her passing.
  • Fico had been married to her husband, Pasquale 'Pat' Fico, for 56 years.

The players

Carmel 'Chubby' Fico

A longtime resident of New Haven, Connecticut who passed away at the age of 85. Fico was known for her warm personality, family-oriented lifestyle, and culinary skills, especially her homemade meatballs.

Pasquale 'Pat' Fico

Carmel Fico's husband of 56 years.

Lillian Antoinette Garguilo

Carmel Fico's mother.

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The takeaway

Carmel Fico's passing marks the end of an era for a beloved member of the New Haven community, whose life story reflects the changing demographics and cultural traditions of the region over the past several decades. Her memory will live on through the family and friends she cherished.