PORTLAND — Antonio Bifulco, 80, of Portland, died Aug. 24.

Bifulco was born Feb. 11, 1933, to Michelina and Leopoldo Bifulco, in Comiziano, Italy. He was one of nine children and loved being a part of a large Italian family. He worked as a butcher and enjoyed playing soccer for his town.

In 1954 he married Maria Ruotolo, his loving companion for 59 years. In 1958, he moved to the United States in hopes of creating more opportunities for a better life. In 1966, Bifulco started Southern Maine Cleaning, which continues to be a family-owned business.

Bifulco was a communicant of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Portland, where he was an active member of the parish. His passions throughout his life were love of friends and family, foraging for wild mushrooms (his spots still remain a mystery to this day), making wine, playing cards and faithfully following the Boston Red Sox.

He is survived by his wife, Maria; his son, Leo, and wife, Cheryl; and his daughter, Lena Brooks, and husband, Brian; and his six grandchildren, Antonio, Eileen Marie, Andrew, Alexandra, Madeline and Spencer, who brought their ‘Nono’ great pride and joy.

The family wishes to thank friends and loved ones for their prayers, care and support.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Aug. 31 at St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, followed by interment at Calvary Cemetery, in South Portland.

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