Michael Edward Kolenberg

Michael Edward Kolenberg, 65, of Stamford, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Michael was born in Greenwich on April 18, 1960, to the late John J. and Mary Cole Kolenberg.

Michael, lovingly known as Mike, fought a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. While his family is heartbroken by his loss, they find comfort in knowing he is finally at peace and free from pain.

Mike’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a devoted husband to his loving wife and steadfast caretaker, Laura Bitker Kolenberg. Their marriage was built on deep love, loyalty, and partnership. He was a proud and adoring father to his only daughter, Nicole Crook, and was proud to call Ryan Crook his son-in-law. Becoming a grandfather to Ashton Crook filled his heart in a way words cannot fully capture. Time with Ashton brought him pure happiness. He also found comfort and companionship in Murphy, the family dog he loved dearly.

Mike showed his love in the countless quiet ways he cared for others. He was often the first to show up with a home cooked meal for a friend, family member, or neighbor in need. After every snowstorm, he made his rounds with the snowblower, clearing driveways and sidewalks simply to make life easier for those around him. Having spent years driving across the Northeast for work, he knew the roads by heart and was always ready with directions. Friends and family relied on him like a trusted guide.

He found true happiness on the water. Boating was one of his greatest passions, and he formed lifelong friendships over the years at Halloween Yacht Club and Seaview House Marina. Whether helping someone dock, navigate the Long Island Sound, or gain confidence at the helm, Mike was patient, steady, and eager to share what he knew. The Sound was his peaceful place and the setting for countless memories with family and friends.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Laura Bitker Kolenberg; his daughter, Nicole Crook and her husband Ryan Crook; and his beloved grandson, Ashton Crook. He is also survived by his siblings, John Kolenberg; Bob (Michelle) Kolenberg; Tom (Olga) Kolenberg; Larry (Laura) Kolenberg; and Annie Kolenberg Cross; along with many nieces and nephews who grew up knowing they could always count on Uncle Mike.

Michael is predeceased by his parents, John J. and Mary Cole Kolenberg.

A funeral procession will leave the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford, CT on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 9:55 AM and proceed to St. Cecilia RC Church, 1184 Newfield Avenue, Stamford, CT for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:30 AM. Interment will follow at Queen of Peace Cemetery, Rockrimmon Road, Stamford, CT. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Michael’s memory to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research or to the Stamford Hospital Foundation for Rehabilitation Services.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.cognetta.com.