Michael Kijewski

It is with extreme sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our generous brother, uncle and dear friend, Michael Alexander Kijewski on May 15, 2023.   He was only 63 years old. 

Michael (Mickey) was born on April 1, 1960 in Culver City, CA to the late Aleksander and Jadwiga Luczakowska Kijewski.  Mike graduated Cum Laude from Jonathan Law High School in Milford, CT and went on to further his education receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources from the University of Connecticut, a Master of Business Administration from the University of New Haven, several certifications in Grounds Keeping and Arboriculture from Quinnipiac University and The Connecticut Tree Protective Association, was an Accredited Nurseryman and member of the Connecticut Environmental Council.

Mike is the youngest of five children and is survived and missed by all four siblings, their spouses, several nieces and nephews, and countless friends, colleagues and acquaintances. They include brothers Chester (Ania) Kijewski, George Kijewski, Andrew Kijewski and sister Agnes Phipps.

Mike started his love of nature and landscaping working for his brother George.  Actually let it be known that all of the Kijewski family members have a green thumb and produce spectacular gardens, so this talent truly runs in the family.  Not before too long, Mike, who was never scared to take on new opportunities, ventured on his own opening Arboreta Landscapes in 1985. Mike was a visionary, artist, and perfectionist who did everything with honesty and integrity. He had very strong values with the kindest soul, an enormous giving heart and mischievous sense of humor.  He was well-liked by everyone, gave his all, never expecting anything in return.  He was generous to a fault, loyal, and brave. He was clever and full to the brim with knowledge taking the time to answer any plant, grass, or tree question thrown his way.  

In addition to cultivating Arboreta into a premiere landscape service, Mike always made time to help others, mentoring and hiring many of the young athletes in Milford. He never judged and everyone got a second and third chance.  Every year and throughout the year, Mike supported numerous organizations and hosted fundraisers for those organizations that shared his love of Milford and our country.   

Not only did he take pride in his work, but also in his friendships which he treasured as his most valuable asset.  He will be remembered for all the heart he shared with his friends and family. He truly loved each of them- and if you knew him, you knew it. His legacy will carry on forever and his absence is felt beyond measure.

In typical Mike fashion, there are no formal services planned, certainly no pomp and circumstance. A celebration of life will occur at the convenience of family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michael Kijewski/Arboreta Landscapes Scholarship Fund. Checks should be made out to Milford Public Schools (Kijewski/Arboreta in memo line) and mail to Office of the Chief Operations Officer, Milford Public Schools, 70 West River Street, Milford, CT 06460.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael Kijewski, please visit our floral store.