Michael Vasileff

VASILEFF, Michael Henry was a true adventurer that led life with pride, courage, and excitement. Through ventures in entrepreneurship and travels across the world, Michael left countless and impactful footprints on the world and endlessly touched our hearts.

Born in Flushing, Queens to Henry and Martha, Michael lived his early childhood in California and briefly in Massachusetts before his family settled down in Woodbridge, Conn. With his older sister, Lili, the two Vasileff siblings became integral parts of the community. Both continued schooling there and Michael graduated from Amity High School in 1975. Michael went on to attend University of Connecticut in Storrs, earning a Bachelor of Science in Finance as well as a Bachelor of Arts in East European and Slavic Studies. Michael then went on to earn an MBA in Finance from Wharton Graduate School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania.

Excited for new beginnings, Michael traveled to recently post-Soviet Russia to be a part of a pioneering finance program. He met his wife, Tatiana, in Moscow where the two quickly connected over their love for the arts and culture. Fueled by cultural shifts and new business opportunities, Michael and Tatiana moved to London where he focused on business growth and partnership building in Russia and other parts of Eastern Europe. Michael and Tatiana married in 2000 and shortly after joyfully welcomed their child, Natalie, in 2002. The three soon moved back to Russia where Michael continued his expansion in global partnerships, introduced riveting ventures, and explored most of Europe with his wife and daughter. A constant highlight from Michael included traveling for work to Tokyo and Hong Kong. After many terrific years in Russia, the family moved to Pennsylvania in the United States, rejoining with Michael’s longtime best friend, Chris Scarlata. Michael and family soon returned to his home state, Connecticut, and settled near his sister, niece Alexandra (Allie), and nephew Nathaniel.

Michael proudly became co-founder and CFO of Greenful, a first of its kind sustainable company focused on manufacturing construction panels from textile and plastic waste. Alongside trusted CEO, business partner, and dear friend Toomas Allikas, the pair traversed across Estonia, Germany, and the Netherlands to grow their organization.

More than a businessman, Michael was an endless explorer; from the tops of mountains to depths in oceans, you could easily spot Michael. He often recounted his not-so-lucky events in scuba diving and glorious moments of skiing in Switzerland. Fiercely independent and always ready to hit the road, Michael trekked every trail, from camping on El Capitan in Yosemite to sleeping under the stars in Utah. With his mother, the two became an inseparable traveling band, flying in hot air balloons in Albuquerque and lounging in bed and breakfasts in rainy Scotland.

Michael and his family continued his love of discovery and exploration with each other, often calling themselves “the Three Musketeers.” From Venice, Italy to Toronto, Canada to almost any corner of New England, the small but mighty group devoted most of Michael’s life to constant expeditions.

Michael was an incredibly intelligent individual, ready to discuss anything related to outer space exploration and American history, later sharing that appreciation and knowledge with his daughter. A deep lover of nature, even a half hour walk in the woods would bring him happiness. Although he’d never admit it, he was a wildly funny person that would light up any room he walked into. Most importantly, he was a true companion and confidant of the orange family cat, Lucia.

Michael’s influence on the world shows through his kindness that knew no bounds, his bravery which never shied away, and his love for his family which always overflowed.

Michael’s service will be held on Saturday, June 20, 11:00 AM at the First Church of Christ at 5 Meetinghouse Lane in Woodbridge. We welcome all to join us in celebrating Michael’s brilliant life, dedication to adventure, and enormous effect on the community and loved ones.