Blackwell, Lindsay Vogel
Lindsay Vogel Blackwell, 38, of Orange, CT, beloved daughter of Stephanie Blackwell and Richard Blackwell passed away in eternal peace on February 24, 2022. Born on June 11, 1983, Lindsay is survived by her three siblings, Matthew Blackwell, Laura Marks, and Gregory Blackwell. Lindsay is also survived by six nieces and nephews, ranging from four months old to eleven years.
Lindsay graduated from SUNY at Albany in 2006 and held several positions over the years in sales. Her passions included making candles, cosmetics, and most of all loving animals. Her laughter was heartfelt and robust, only to be surpassed by her quick mind and spontaneous wit. She had a generous nature and was willing to help those in need. The love of Lindsay’s life, her sheltie, Hope, was at her side as she fell asleep into deep slumber to enter through God’s gates. God called her name and she followed.
Lindsay suffered many challenges over the years, dealing with mental illness and often prayed to God for others to be helped. Now, her battle is over and she is at rest.
All services for Lindsay will be private. Per the family’s wishes, for those who wish to remember her in a special way, in lieu of flowers, may donate to Mental Health America.
Blanchette, Susan
Susan Blanchette, 75, of Orange, beloved wife of 52 years to Andrew Blanchette, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2022. Born on December 6, 1946, in Queens, NY, she was the daughter of the late George and Frances (Clark) Schramm.
Sue, an Orange resident for most of her life, served the town in a number of capacities for over 50 years. She started at the Town Hall at the age of 15, and over the years worked in the Tax Office, the Probate Court, and the Assessor’s Office, and served as the Republican Registrar of Voters as well as a moderator of Absentee Ballots.
Outside of work, Sue was a member of the Women’s Republican Club of Orange and the Holy Infant Women’s Guild. She enjoyed watercolor painting, and was an avid and accomplished bridge player and a director of the Bridge Club at the Orange Senior Center. Sue and her husband spent their winter months in Naples, FL, and she was active at the Senior Center there as well. Whether in Orange or Naples, Sue loved spending time with her friends and family.
In addition to her loving husband, Sue is survived by her children, Andrew (Stephanie Nash) Blanchette, Jr., and Amanda (Noah) Meyer; her grandchildren, Cooper, Emma, Aiden, and Colby; her sister, Judi (Russ) Grindrod; sister-in-law, Jean (David) Rose; and several nieces and nephews. The family would like to express their gratitude to friends and caregivers for their support and compassion during difficult times.
Friends and family may call from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on March 5, 2022, at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, March 5, 2022, at 12:00 p.m. at Holy Infant Church 450 Racebrook Rd., Orange, CT 06477. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Ronald McDonald House.
Cesero, Lillian
All services are private. Services are being handled by Mountain Oak Cremation Services.
Ciancola, Mark S.
Services will be private. The family would like to thank all of the nurses and caretakers at CT Hospice for their exceptional care. As such, the family asks that any donations be made to CT Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd. Branford, CT 06405. Arrangements are in care of the PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 830 Jones Hill Rd., West Haven.
Connolly, Patricia C.
Patricia C. Connolly, known in the family as Tease or Teeces, died peacefully in the comfort of her home on February 7th, 2022. She was born in Port Chester, New York, on March 14th, 1943. She was the daughter of the late Helen and John Zachar. She was predeceased by her brother, John Zachar, and her sister, Rita Bella.
She is survived by her husband, Joseph, and their son Sean and his partner Dawn Keiper. She is also survived by their son Erin and his wife Mary Ann and their son, the light of Pat’s life, Brian. She never missed one of his basketball games at Saint Mary School and enjoyed volunteering for lunch at the school’s cafeteria. She is also survived by her nephews, Daniel and Jeffery Bella, and her nieces Adrienne Capirchio and Cynthia Brock.
She graduated from Greenwich High School and the Greenwich Hospital School of Nursing in 1964. She worked at Greenwich Hospital as a floor nurse and as an assistant head nurse. While there, she met her future husband, Joe, who was working as an orderly during a summer vacation. She then worked at Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, DC. True to her nature, the day after the 1968 riots in DC with the city burning and with troops in the streets, she hopped into her VW beetle and drove to work as if it was just another day.
She later worked at Milford Hospital as a bedside nurse. She then worked at the old Saint Raphael’s Hospital. She ended her nursing career as the Clinical Risk Manager at John Dempsey Hospital/UConn. She was certified as a Gerontological Nurse and as a professional in Health Risk Management. She was honored by her professional organization, the Connecticut Society for Healthcare Risk Management, for her long service to their chapter.
She was a Navy wife. Erin was born when Joe was overseas. Sean was just a baby at the time. Joe’s commanding officer offered to bring him home but she felt that he should do his job and she would do hers.
She was athletic. She enjoyed skiing and she earned trophies in bowling and racquetball. She had fun playing golf with her girlfriends at Myrtle Beach. She enjoyed watching the Mets at Port Saint Lucie and having good times in Massachusetts. She traveled in Europe. Ireland was her favorite. She was an expert in telling the different Irish whiskies apart. She never turned down a martini or a cosmopolitan. She enjoyed knitting and ceramics back in the day. Her ceramic Halloween pumpkin has stood the test of time. She always made the holidays so special with beautiful decorations and amazing meals. She was very patriotic and was an avid supporter of our veterans.
She served on the Board of Directors of the Orange VNA. She was an early and active member of the town of Orange Community Emergency Response Team and was a certified ham radio operator.
The family would like to thank Dr. Frank Mongillo, her caregiver Jenneta Cross, Vitas Hospice, and the Orange Visiting Nurse Association. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Orange VNA, 605 Orange Center Road, Orange CT, 06477.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects on THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2022, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on FRIDAY, MAY 13, 2022 at 11 a.m. at Holy Infant Church, 450 Racebook Rd., Orange, CT. Burial will take place at a future date.
Crute, Robert
Robert Alan Crute (Big Bob) of Milford CT passed away unexpectedly on February 11, 2022. He was a lifelong resident of Milford CT and work for City of Milford (sanitation department) for many years. Survivors include his son Robert Scott Crute (wife Jen), daughter Crystal Ann Crute (his princess), his two beautiful grandchildren, Ashley Crute and Anthony Ciro Nappi along with his loving ex-wife Cynthia (O’Connor) Crute. Bob and Cindy might not have still been married but boy did they care for one another. He was known as a great guy that was always willing to help. He is preceded by his brother Anthony Crute (2021) and his sister Joan Crute Gourley. He left behind many nieces and nephews that he loved dearly. He is now with his best friend Vincent (Vinny) Felicella in heaven riding their motorcycles. We love and miss you dearly. Services will be private.
Freer, Myrold J.
Myrold “Butch” J. Freer, 71 of Milford, the loving husband of Theresa (Sicona) Freer, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 22, 2022. Born in Bridgeport on July 27, 1950, he was the son of the late Richard L. Freer, Sr. and the late Dorothy (Kwiatkowski) Freer.
Butch was a longtime employee of Sikorsky in Stratford where he started playing softball for the company team. Upon leaving Sikorsky, he would continue his joy of playing softball by joining the company team for Radio Frequency Systems in Meriden, where he continued to work until retiring in 2016.
He enjoyed watching college basketball and was a fan of the UCONN Huskies and during football season, he was always watching the NY Giants. In is down time, he liked to go bowling, hunting, play golf, or throw some horseshoes. He also loved to go camping with the family and coach his son’s little league baseball team.
In addition to his wife, Butch is survived by his children, Holly and her husband Steven Guerette and Ronald Freer; his granddaughter Katara Paquet and grandson Kilian Sheehy; his brothers, Gary Freer and his wife Gail, Wayne Freer, Michael Freer and his wife Patti; his sisters, Beverly (Bev) Henderson and her husband William (Red) and Rosemary (Rose) Renzie and her husband Robert; as well as many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his daughter Christine Freer, his brothers Ronald Freer and Richard Freer, and his parents Richard and Dorothy Freer.
Family is invited to a graveside service on Wednesday, March 2, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Lawncroft Cemetery, 1740 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield, CT 06825. The service will be held inside the mausoleum.
Galantis, Virginia
Virginia Galantis, 93, of Milford, beloved wife of the late Elias Galantis, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2022. Virginia was born on August 13, 1928 in Kasos, Greece to the late Manoli and Julia Mina. In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by her daughter, Julia Grigoriadis; and seven siblings.
Above all, Virginia loved her family. She was so proud of her eight granddaughters and cherished the moments with her great grandchildren. Virginia had a wonderful sense of humor and reveled in making people smile and laugh.
Virginia leaves behind her daughter, Ipakoi Paridis and her husband Hristos; son-in-law, Konstandinos Grigoriadis; granddaughters, Maria (Spyro) Menegatos, Virginia (Steve) Nikolopoulos, Anastasia (Jorge) Paridis, Virginia (Sabatino) Kikis, Julia (David) Turco, Eleni (Danny) Grigoriadis, Ipakoi Grigoriadis, and Mirofora Paridis; nine great grandchildren with another arriving soon; sisters, Marina Diakakis and Marigoula Papakanakis; and many nieces, nephews and extended family members who love her dearly.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Wednesday, March 2, 2022 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church, 480 Racebrook Rd., Orange, CT. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. at St. Barbara. Burial will follow at Kings Highway Cemetery, 271 Cherry St., Milford, CT. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT 06405.
Golub, Inna
Survivors in addition to her beloved husband Walter, include her loving daughters, Helen Rose and her husband Efraim Sagiv of Orange and Olga Golub and her husband Ilya Gorelik of Weston, MA, her cherished grandchildren, Julia Begun, Matthew Gorelik and his wife Amanda Hobson and Isaac Gorelik, a sister Raisa Pavlova of New Haven, her step-daughter Maria Peavy and her husband Dexter of Woodbridge, step-grandchildren L.P, Natasha, George and Katherine Peavy. Funeral service will take place on Friday, February 18, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. in the Adzima Funeral Home with the Rev. Dimitri Jakimowicz officiating, Internment will be in Mount Saint Peter Cemetery in Derby. Friends may call on Friday from 9:30 -10:30 a.m. Masks are required, as visitors walk through, pay their respects, and exit without lingering to ensure all guests can come through the building. For more information or to make an online condolence please visit www.adzimafuneralhome.com.
Guerra, Marie
Marie attended West Haven Public Schools and Albertus Magnus College, graduating from the University of Connecticut with a Bachelor of Science. Prior to her retirement, Marie enjoyed her career as a teacher working for the West Haven Board of Education. She was passionate about her work in remedial reading, believing that all children needed to have fundamental reading skills to succeed. She constantly encouraged her students to continue their education, always trying to build their self-esteem.
Marie loved Orange and its ubiquitous wildlife. She and her husband Mike also enjoyed their many trips to Cape Cod, especially their bicycle trips from Falmouth to Woods Hole. They also enjoyed spending winters in Boynton Beach, Florida. Marie was a devoted wife and loving mother, a gentle soul who loved everyone without reservation. She always felt fortunate to have made the acquaintance of so many wonderful people.
Visitation will be held on Thursday from 9-10:30am at the West Haven Funeral Home at the Green. Masks and social distancing are strongly recommended. Her funeral procession will leave the funeral home at 10:30 for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated in Holy Infant Church at 11am. Entombment will follow in St. Lawrence Garden Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Marie’s name may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital. To leave an online condolence, please visit our website at www.westhavenfuneral.com.
Harriman, Kevin C.
Kevin C. Harriman, age 41, beloved son of Walter G. Kiernan of Milford and Maryellen Harriman of West Haven and beloved fiancé of Jennifer Kandrach of Milford, died on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, surrounded by his family after a long battle with cancer. Kevin was born in New Haven on February 12, 1981. Kevin grew up in Milford and attended Platt Technical School. He worked at Montano Distributors in Milford and was a sports enthusiast. His favorite teams were the Pittsburgh Steelers, NY Mets, and the Pittsburgh Penguins. He enjoyed watching wrestling and was a comic book collector. He will be dearly missed and always loved by his family.
Survivors, in addition to his fiancé and parents, include his sister, Courtney Kiernan of Milford, uncles: Randy Harriman (Jackie), James Kiernan and Patrick Kiernan (Noranne), all of Milford and aunts, Carolanne Griffin of Milford and Lori Harriman of Milford, maternal grandmother, Norma Harriman of Milford and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Kevin is predeceased by his brother, Walter J. Kiernan, paternal grandmother, Anne Kiernan, maternal grandfather, Clarence Harriman, uncles, Artie and Brian Harriman and aunts, Mary Elizabeth Kiernan and Terri Harriman.
Friends and family may call on Monday, March 7th from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm in The Gregory F. Doyle Funeral Home, 291 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford. Interment will be private. Cemetery, Milford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.
Jorgensen, Marijane
Marijane “Jane” Jorgensen, 87, of Milford, beloved wife of 65 years to David Jorgensen, passed away peacefully February 19, 2022. Born on November 4, 1934 in Bridgeport, she was the daughter of the late James and Elizabeth MacFadden.
Jane’s great joy in life was family, especially her loving husband David. She was a student at Lauralton Hall (grades 1-12), graduate of Saint Joseph College, and an enthusiastic teacher and para educator in the Milford School system. Always benevolent, her students rarely went without if Jane knew they were in need. She was always generous with her time and resources and helped numerous charities over the years. Jane was a devoted Roman Catholic belonging to Saint Mary’s parish and past president of the guild. She was a travel enthusiast, and enjoyed live theater. In her later years she was an active participant of the Ahren’s Program at the Milford Senior Center.
Along with her husband, Jane is survived by her children, Laura, David Jr., Stephen (Susan), Paul (Tammy), and Patricia Jorgensen; grandchildren, Michael (Samantha), Noah, Karen, and Ethan Jorgensen; great grandchildren, David and Charlie; and extended family and friends.
A Gathering of Family and Friends will take place on Wednesday, February 23, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home 107 Broad Street, Milford, CT 06460. A Funeral Service will take place that day at the conclusion of calling hours. Burial will follow at Kings Highway Cemetery, 271 Cherry St., Milford. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Dorothy Alder Geriatric Assessment Center (note the specification in the comments section) or to the Ahrens Program.
Klink, William D. III
William D. Klink III passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Saturday, February 12, 2022, at the age of 62. Bill was born in Milford on February 25, 1959 to the late William D. Klink II and Jean (Hilkene) Klink. He was a devoted husband of 41 years to his wife, Jeannie (Johnson) Klink and loving father to his four children. He graduated from Platt Tech High School in 1977. Bill worked at Encon for 46 years, which became a second family to him. He was an avid Jets, Mets and UConn fan. He loved going to games and tailgating with his family. He also enjoyed vacationing in Maine every summer.
Komosinski, John Stanley
John Stanley Komosinski, 90, of Milford, beloved husband for 54 years to the late Eileen Allison Komosinski, passed away on March 3, 2022. John was born on January 30, 1932 in Yonkers, NY to the late Anthony and Katherine Komosinski.
John moved to Milford 67 years ago. He dedicated over 3 years of his life to the US Navy during the Korean conflict. He was also a past member of the Knights of Columbus. John worked for 33 years at Raybestos, retiring as Department Foreman. John worked extremely hard to provide for his family. He always had a smile on his face, ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His family was the center of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them, especially all the grandchildren and great grandchildren.
John leaves behind his daughters, Patricia (Robert) Sartor, Theresa (Paul) Costello, and Kathleen (David) Pittman; grandchildren, Carrie (Terry di Paolo) Sartor, Michael (Jorinda) Sartor, Katherine (Dawn Brainerd) Sartor, Robert (Kristen) Sartor, Kyle (Keile Martin) Sartor, Scott (Lauren) McCoy, Peter (Stephanie) Costello, Michael (Pritha) Costello, Allison (Brandon) Fleming and Timothy (Nicole) Pittman; great grandchildren, Elspeth, Cody, Adriana, Jake (Olivia), Adam, Madelyn, Reese, Abigail, Wesley, Kaelynn and Riley; great great granddaughter, Callie; and sister, Florence Brennan. John was predeceased by his siblings, Nellie Sajdak, Bernard Komosinski, Tessie Rogozinski, Adam Komosinski, Lillian Krutz, Anthony Komosinski, Casimir Komosinski and Eleanor Wojnarowski.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, March 11, 2022 at 10 a.m. at St. Mary Church (Precious Blood Parish), 70 Gulf St., Milford, CT. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery, Buckingham Ave, Milford, CT. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105.
Lanzi, Robert A.
Robert Anthony Lanzi, 85, of Orange, widower of his beloved Sally, passed away on March 4, 2022 after a brief illness. Born on May 1, 1936 in Derby, he was the son of Anthony and Anna (Novelli) Lanzi.
Bob graduated from Harvard College in 1957, received his MD at Temple University Medical School, and finished his medical training in internal medicine and allergy at the University of Michigan. He then served in the US Army at Fort Lewis, Tacoma, WA, before moving with his young family to Orange in 1969.
He was well known for his decades long allergy practice in Orange, and as a teacher by nature, was also an adjunct professor in allergy at Yale Medical School. Always enthusiastic and engaged with the natural world, Bob was a photographer, fly fisherman, botanist and a dedicated volunteer at Yale’s Peabody Museum. He loved languages, travel and music. Played piano and saxophone, and told fun stories about his time in the Harvard Band. His friends and family will remember him most having shared wonderful meals together.
He is survived by his sister Barbara (Lanzi) Lynch, Harpswell, ME, son Rick Lanzi, and daughter Elizabeth Lanzi, Orange, CT.
Donations in Bob’s memory can be made to Saint Thomas More, Saint Thomas More Chapel & Center at Yale University, 268 Park Street, New Haven, CT 06511 and to the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, PO Box 20118, New Haven CT 06520.
There will be a viewing to remember Bob at the St. Thomas More Chapel, 268 Park St., New Haven, on Friday, March 11, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with a Mass of Celebration to follow at 11:00 a.m. at the chapel. Burial will take place at Orange Center Cemetery, Orange Center Road, Orange.
Lynch, Rosemary
Rosemary Kelly Lynch died on February 17, 2022, after a long and fortunate life. For nine decades, Rosemary lived life fully and on her own terms. She was dedicated to her family, especially her late husband, William F. Lynch; her nursing profession; and her Catholic faith. Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, on May 18, 1930, Rosemary was the eldest daughter of the late Francis W. and Catherine Casey Kelly. She grew up in Devon, Connecticut, a community that is both an identity and a geographical location, attending Devon Grammar School before graduating from Milford High School in 1948.
Following high school, Rosemary enrolled at the Hospital of St. Raphael (St. Rafe’s) School of Nursing, graduating in 1951. She joined the staff of St. Rafe’s labor and delivery ward and was shift supervisor when she met Bill Lynch, the intern who become her husband for the next six decades. With the birth of their first child, Rosemary hung up her nursing cap and cape but, even as her family grew, she volunteered with community organizations. For many years, she was very active with the Guild at St. Mary’s Church in Milford and also served on the board of the Visiting Nurse Association and the state Board of Mental Health. In the 1980s, Ro returned to nursing, at Milford Hospital where she realized her original ambition of being a scrub (o.r.) nurse.
Rosemary will be remembered with love by her four children, and their families: son Bill, his wife, Nicole, and their three daughters, Mary, Emily, and Grace; daughter, Rosemary, her husband, Tom Dillon, and their son, Chris; son Tom, his wife, Sharon, and her son Paul; and son Peter, his fiancée, Laurie Julian, and his children, Dan and Mattie. Also surviving Rosemary are her siblings and their spouses: Frank and Marilyn Kelly, Dan and Anne Kelly, Kathleen and Jim Dalton; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband and parents, Rosemary was predeceased by her sisters Patricia Drake and JoAnn Mapes and her sister-in-law Sr. Wilma Lynch, O.P.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, February 22, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Ann’s Church, 501 Naugatuck Ave., Devon. Burial will follow at St. Lawrence Cemetery, West Haven. Friends and family may call on Monday, February 21, 2022 from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at THE GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 Bridgeport Ave., Devon. Masks are required indoors. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice. To share a memory, please visit, www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.
Marchionni, Mary
Mary Bianculli Marchionni, age 92, of Trumbull, formerly of Orange, passed away on February 19, 2022. She was the loving wife of the late Joseph L. Marchionni. Mary was born in Latronico, Potenza, Italy, daughter of the late Vincenzo and Maria Angelina Conte Bianculli. She is survived by her children, Linda Marchionni of Palm Harbor, FL and Joseph Marchionni of Guilford, her grandsons Joseph and Christopher Marchionni, her sister Teresa Bonaiuto and her niece Debbie Vasquez. Prior to her retirement, Mary was a local seamstress for many years. She mostly enjoyed being a homemaker, tending to her garden and cooking for her family.
Visitation will be on Wednesday morning from 8:30 – 9:30 at the West Haven Funeral Home at the Green. Her funeral procession will leave the funeral home at 9:30am for a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Anthony’s Church at 10am. Entombment will follow in St. Lawrence Garden Mausoleum. Donations may be made in her memory to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.act.alz.org.
Marcus, Paulette
Paulette Marcus died peacefully in hospice on February 11th, 2022. She was born in Miami, FL on July 28, 1962. She was the daughter of the late Donna and the late Harvey Gardy. She was predeceased by her sons, Matthew and Ryan Marcus.
Paulette is survived by her husband, Brad, and their daughters Rachel and Madison.
She graduated from Tulane University and moved to New York City to work in the fashion industry. While there, she met her future husband, Brad, while working a 2nd job in a video store.
Paulette received her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Brooklyn College and worked for DOMUS Foundation in Stamford, heading its juvenile justice program for troubled teens.
After giving birth to Rachel, Paulette began working as a guidance counselor at Wooster Middle School in Stratford, where she thrived for more than 10 years. She was then transferred to Flood Middle School as the lead guidance counselor, where she worked until 2012.
Paulette then worked as a parenting coach for a Department of Children and Families’ consulting agency, working to unify parents and children. She continued in various capacities even after her cancer diagnosis in 2017.
She loved children and animals, as well as giving back to her community. She was a room parent, Girl Scout leader and had the original idea for Orange’s Trunk or Treat Family Halloween event, which continues to this day.
Raising her daughters to be strong, independent women was Paulette’s proudest achievement and Maddie and Rachel are the epitome of their mother’s hard work.
Mecca, Salvatore R.
Salvatore Ralph Mecca, 90, of Orange, beloved husband of Josephine Patricia “Pat” Mecca, passed away peacefully and entered into eternal rest on Friday, March 4, 2022. Born on June 24, 1931, in Port Chester, New York, he was the son of the late Leonard and Suzy Mecca of Greenwich, CT.
Sal and his wife, Pat, just celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.
Along with his wife, Salvatore leaves behind his Daughter, Annie Mecca; siblings, Francis “Frank” Mecca, Josephine (Anthony) Passarelli, Leonard (Dian) Mecca Jr, nieces, nephews, and many extended family members. Sal was predeceased by his brother, Nicholas Mecca.
Sal was a butcher by trade, a Korean War veteran, an avid Frank Sinatra aficionado, loved the family dogs and cats, played Alto saxophone and clarinet, and loved to slow dance with his wife and daughter.
Friends and family may gather on Friday, March 11, 2022 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 BROAD STREET, MILFORD, CT. A Traditional Catholic Requiem Mass will be held at 12:00 p.m., immediately after calling hours at Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel, 378 Spring Street, Orange, CT. Parking is on the New Haven Avenue side of the church. Interment with Military Honors will take place after the Mass at approximately 2:30 p.m. at Saint Mary/Putnam Cemetery, 399 North Street, Greenwich, CT. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions for 30 Gregorian Masses in Salvatore Mecca’s name may be made to Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel, 378 Spring Street, Orange, CT 06477.
Morton, Kevin
Kevin Morton, age 67, entered eternal rest on Monday, February 21, 2022, at CT Hospice with his loving wife of 44 years (High School sweetheart), Cheryl (Piro) Morton by his side.
Kevin was born on July 2, 1954, in Bridgeport and was the son of the late Harvey and Angelina (Mattini) Morton. Kevin worked at Hewlett Packard for over 45 years and was an Account Support Manager until his retirement.
Kevin enjoyed vacationing in warm climates, casinos, golfing and was proud to say he had a hole in one! But mostly enjoyed trips to visit his girls and grandson, and spending time with his “Hon.” In addition to his devoted wife and best friend, Cheryl, Kevin leaves his two loving daughters, Kelly Shen (Eric) of Fairfax, VA and Stacey Morton of Pasadena, CA, cherished grandson, Connor Shen, siblings: Katherine Battistelli of Stratford, Edward Morton (Missy) of Monroe, Charles Morton (Debbie) of NC, Robert Morton (Roberta) of Monroe, William Morton (Roberta) of Stratford, Nancy Ellis of Stratford and Florence Lillis (Wayne) of Naugatuck, and brother-in-law, Larry Piro (Norma) of FL and several nieces and nephews. Kevin is predeceased by his brother, Lee Morton.
Friends and family may call on Saturday, February 26, 2022 from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. in THE GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford. Masks are required indoors. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow in Saint Ann Church (Saint Raphael Parish) at 11:30 a.m. Interment will be private.
O’Hara, Rita C.
Rita C. O’Hara, 90, of Milford, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2022. Rita was born on April 15, 1931 in Derby, CT to the late Joseph E. and Helen Bergin.
Rita retired as an X-Ray Technician from Milford Hospital after many devoted years. She loved all her dogs over the years and spending time with her family and friends from the Laurel Beach Community. Rita would take vacation trips to Booth Bay, Maine and dedicated her time to her parish at St. Gabriel Church.
Rita leaves behind her nephews, Joseph R. Bergin and his wife Amy and Stephen F. Bergin; great nieces and nephews, Paul Evangelista, Krista Verdi and her husband Ryan, Georgia and Greta Bergin and William and Lily Bergin; great great niece, Aria Verdi; and sister-in-law, Marjorie Bergin. She was predeceased by her brother, Joseph F. Bergin and her niece Cecelia M. Evangelista.
Family and friends may pay their respects on Thursday, February 24, 2022 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12 p.m. at St. Gabriel Church (St. Raphael Parish), 26 Broadway, Milford, CT. Burial will take place at Mount St. Peter Cemetery, 219 New Haven Ave., Derby, CT.
Perkin, Frank S.
Frank S. Perkins III, age 85, of Milford, passed away on Monday, February 14, 2022. Born on January 7, 1937 in Milford, he was the son of the late Franklin S. Perkins II and the late Genevieve Ellison Perkins.
Frank has put the kick stand up for the last time. Finally at last to be with his Gloria in Heaven. He was the ultimate motorcycle enthusiast riding everywhere and every moment possible, always happiest when riding with his Gloria, soulmate-riding partner for 10 years. They rode far covering 85,000 miles together. The joy went out of his life when Gloria was called to be with the Lord. Frank was a legend in his own time in the M/C world having over 60 years of riding, racing, and building motorcycles – a true rider.
He is survived by his sisters, Sally Perkins, Diane Bekech, and Beverly Perkins, as well as many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his brothers, Perry, Alan, Cleveland, and Wayne Perkins; and his beloved Gloria.
Family and friends may call on Friday, February 25, 2022 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT with a Funeral Service to be held at 7:30 pm.
Pjura, Shirley Irene
Shirley Irene Pjura, 93, of Milford, beloved wife of the late Paul Pjura, passed away on February 14, 2022. Born on November 23, 1928 in Bridgeport, CT, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Mary (Bennett) Lacavalle.
Shirley worked for many years at Milford hospital as a switchboard operator before her retirement.
Shirley is survived by her children, Donna (Joe) Volanth, Gary Pjura, and Kathy Pjura; her grandson, Arthur Volanth; and her caregivers and family friends, Serena Mensik, Laurie Spadaccino and Elaine Cooper.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, February 17, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Mary Church (Precious Blood Parish) 70 Gulf St., Milford, CT (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH). Interment will follow at Saint Mary Cemetery, Buckingham Ave., Milford, CT.
Reeve, Ellen H.
Ellen Holst Reeve, age 82, entered into rest on February 25, 2022 while residing at Bishop Wicke Health & Rehab Center in Shelton, CT after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease.
She was born in Milford, CT on July 17, 1939 to the late Herman J. and Virginia H. Holst. She was a bookkeeper for most of her career prior to retiring. She loved her family and animals. One time she went to the Milford Animal Control looking for a neighbor’s dog and ended up coming home with a dog! In her later years she resided at Bishop Wicke and made so many friends and memories there.
Ellen leaves behind her children, Sharon (Paul) LaBosky Jr. of Milford, CT and Gregory Reeve of Hampton, CT, her grandson Paul LaBosky III and her brother Gordon Holst of Seymour, CT as well as many nieces and nephews. Ellen was predeceased by her brother, Eugene Holst and his wife Nancy, and her sister Susan McCoy. She was also predeceased by her loving partner, Louis Cerino.
We cannot thank the nurses and staff at Bishop Wicke enough for all their loving care and support while she was a resident there. They took the time to make us and my mother feel like family! The family requests that memorial contributions be made to Bishop Wicke Health & Rehab Center, 584 Long Hill Ave., Shelton, CT 06484.
Safko, Josephine Marie
Josephine Marie Safko, 96, of Milford, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2022. Born on June 20, 1925 in Stratford, CT, she was the daughter of the late Vincenzo and Carrie (Verdiram) DeLibro.
Josephine is survived by her daughter, Beverly Safko; her grandson, Barry (Heather McLellan) Keeler; her great grandson, Brett Keeler; and many extended family members. Josephine was predeceased by her 15 siblings and her husband, Andrew Safko.
All services will be private at this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 Saint Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Sheldon, Kenneth Carl
Kenneth Carl Sheldon passed away on February 6, 2022 at the age of 96. He was a loved son, loyal brother, devoted husband, passionate father, playful grandfather & friend to many.
Kenneth was raised in Endicott, NY by Sara and Joseph Schapiro. In his youth he somewhat reluctantly developed his lifelong passion for tennis at the urging of an older brother who wanted someone to play with.
During WW2 he served in the Merchant Marines on the dangerous North Atlantic run. Returning from war he attended Syracuse University as an undergraduate and was captain of Syracuse tennis team. War called again and he spent the Korean War as an X-Ray technician at the Brooke Army Hospital in Texas while playing tennis for the US infantry tennis team and then at a MASH unit five miles from the front lines. Returning to Syracuse University a second time in 1952 he met the love of his life, Lynda Vogel and after graduate school, settled with his bride in Vestal, NY to work in the family’s clothing store. In 1968 he learned of a clothing store for sale in Milford, CT and picked up his family and moved to Orange, CT as co-owner with his wife of The Milford Shop, then later the clothing stores, The Other Place and Lynda’s.
He ran The Milford Shop for twenty years, retiring early in 1988 to do the things he loved; traveling the world, bicycling, exercising, playing tennis, eating ice cream and wintering in Miami Beach. At 84 years old, with friend Jack Novick from Branford, won in a regional United States Tennis Association-sanctioned tournament which placed him in the New England Tennis Association’s prestigious Hall of Fame.
Kenneth is survived by his wife of 67 years, Lynda, his children Jamie Sheldon of San Diego, CA & Joshua Sheldon (Marcey Brownstein) of Phoenicia, NY, grandchildren Jacob Villalobos & Elias Sheldon, his sister Beatrice Schapiro of NYC and extended family.
He will be sorely missed…
Memorial contributions can be made in Kenneth Sheldon’s honor to Doctors Without Borders https://donate.doctorswithoutborders.org/.
Thibodeau, Eldrick
Eldrick Thibodeau, age 86, of Milford, beloved husband of the late Virginia Thibodeau (Montgomery), died on Thursday, February 3, 2022 with family by his side. Eldrick was born in St. Francis, ME on October 4th, 1935 to the late David and Elise Thibodeau (Michaud). Eldrick grew up in Maine and later moved to Milford to raise his family where he worked in Public Works for The City of Milford and also had his own tree removal service. He loved to play horseshoes, attend church with his wife, have family picnics, and joke with his friends and family. If you knew him well his nicknames were Tippy or Dick.
Survivors include his daughter, Cynthia Thibodeau of Milford, along with 9 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild, and seven siblings, Diana, Jackie, Sandra, Linda, George (Ernie), Eldon and Ned. Eldrick is predeceased by his daughters, Sharon and Darlene Thibodeau and two sisters, Amanda and Yvonne.
Friends and family may call on Thursday, February 10th from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. in THE GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford. Interment will take place on Thursday, February 17th at 11am in Saint Mary Cemetery, Milford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Diabetes Foundation.
To share a memory, please go to www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.
Weiss, Dan J.
Dan J. Weiss, 56, passed away on January 25, 2022. He was a lifelong Milford resident. He graduated from Platt Technical HS and attended Southern Connecticut State University, studying Engineering and Applied Physics. His many positions as an Application Engineer included a UK/US Applications Representative for Bridgeport Machines and as most recently CFA Inc. in Milford, CT. Beloved son of the late Russell P. and Barbara B. Weiss. Dear brother of Russell, Ann, and Erik Weiss of Milford, CT, Maureen(John) Beiser of GA, Deborah(Vincent) Fredericks of FL, Sharon (Joe)Carofano of NY. Uncle to Kate(Mike) Connolly, Vincent Fredericks(fiancee Danielle Poirier), Steven(Michelle) Fredericks, Rene(Daymon) Delaware, Barbara Fredericks(fiance Cory Ayers), Brian(Erin) Weiss, Nicole(Joshua) Cocce, Sean(Carrie) Weiss, John(Katherine)Carofano, and Alyssa Carofano. Dan’s sense of family was so strong, constantly keeping in touch with all 6 of siblings. He was passionate and protective about anything he believed in and when he was excited, he was “100% on it!” His interests in space explorations and science went so far beyond the usual inquiring mind. He could definitely hold his own intelligently with anyone who challenged him. He will forever be in our hearts and missed tremendously.
Friends and family may call on Wednesday, March 2nd, 2022 from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. in THE GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford. Interment will be private.
Westermann, Randoline “Randi”
Randoline “Randi” Westermann was born on April 21, 1949 and passed away on February 21, 2022 at age 72.
Woodbridge, George “Heeren”
In the early morning of February 6th, 2022, beloved educator, author and composer, George Charles “Heeren” Woodbridge Jr. of Milford, Connecticut passed away peacefully at Bridgeport Hospital following complications from an illness. He is loved and remembered for being a devoted husband of over 40 years to his wife Nancy and as well a brilliant teacher renowned for being a friend and life mentor to his many students. Mr. Woodbridge’s teaching career spanned four decades he in Brooklyn, New Haven and most recently Foran High School in Milford, Connecticut.
Born in 1951 in New York, he rapidly showed his talents in many fields. At age 16 he attended Princeton University where he graduated in only three years. He then went on to study Ancient Greek at the University of London and later Cambridge University. His advanced degrees served him well as a linguist and Latin teacher as he mastered over 33 languages.
After completing his studies George then traveled the world in search of spiritual enlightenment. First going to the Shetland Islands in the Subartic region he learned to live for several years without such things as running water. His travels eventually took him to India to study meditation where a spiritual mentor gave him an Indian name which he preferred to use, “Heeren” which means “blissful diamond.”
He then met the love of his life Nancy Garfield Woodbridge beginning a powerful and loving marriage of over 40 years.
As highly effective educators they shared their mutual incredible love for literature and teaching and mentoring youths. Reading and writing they accumulated enough books to rival public libraries. He then released first novel in 2014 “Daniel’s Return,” after an extensive study of Hopi Indian civilization.
Mr. Woodbridge was also a screenwriter, film maker, composer and brilliant pianist for all genres. His feature film, A Moment in Time, was premiered in 2010 and selections from his opera, Ver Sacrum, have been recorded on CD. Mr. Woodbridge has also composed extensive music and poetry including an opera in Russian.
In later years even after retirement he continued to mentor his students through his local meditation group he founded and ran. He was known for being a spiritual mentor who not only taught students about their subjects but cared about each one of them learning about and succeeding in their lives.
He will be remembered for his great skill, his love and devotion to his family, students and students, his robust sense of humor and his keen intellect.
Mr. Woodbridge is survived by his Stepsons Joshua and Maurice and Maurice’s wife Katie as well as his brothers Curtis and Christopher.
Calling Hours will be held on FRIDAY FEBRUARY 11th from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. in THE GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford. A Funeral service will be held Friday morning February 11th at 11:00 at Mishkan Israel Cemetery, 60 Jewell St, New Haven, Connecticut.
Yankowski, Alexandra S.
Alexandra S. Yankowski, 29, of West Haven, passed away on February 19, 2022. Born on May 18, 1992 in London, England, she was the daughter of Thomas and Fernanda Yankowski and Kathi (Iversen) and Lars Giers. She also was the beloved partner of Josh Parnoff,
Alex was a loving, caring, sweet and funny person with a big heart. She loved taking hikes and walking her dog, Diesel, and had a fond love of books, old and new. She also loved animals, especially dogs and cats.
Alex graduated from Jonathan Law High School in 2010 and has a BA degree from Southern Connecticut State University.
In addition to her parents and fiancé, Alex is survived by her sister, Karla Yankowski from Raleigh, NC; her dog, Diesel; her two cats, Damien, and Reagan; several aunts and uncles; numerous cousins; and many best friends.
Alex had a special bond with her sister, who will miss her immensely.
The family would like to thank Gaylord Rehabilitation and the Yale Neurology Department and Neuro-ICU for their excellent care of Alex.
A Funeral Service will be celebrated on Saturday, February 26, 2022 at 3:30 p.m. at Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. Interment will be private. Friends and family may call from 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The NORSE Institute at norseinstitute.org.