John D. Agapiou
With heartfelt sadness, we announce the passing of John D. Agapiou, on December 30, 2022, at the age of 93. A Connecticut native and Orange, CT resident for 62 years, John is survived by his wife of 68 years, Beth Dambakelis Agapiou; father of Charles (Kyong) Agapiou, Karen (Dennis) Kerames, and Susan (Curtis) Bullock; grandchildren Brooke (Steven) Parlato, John (Aimee) Artes, Daniel (Anna) Kerames, Stephanie (Kyle) Laham, Paige Bullock, Austin, and Alexis Agapiou. John was the very proud great-grandfather of Mallory, Ava, Alexandra, Blaise, Claire, Dean, John, and Stephen. He was predeceased by his great-grandson Brayden Parlato. John is also survived by his sister-in-law Evelyn D. Heffernan; and his nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews.
John dearly loved his family, and they hold many fond memories as he spent the majority of his time with his children and grandchildren who all grew up in Orange, CT. John grew up on a farm in Ansonia and had a natural green thumb. He was very proud of his service in the Army and was awarded a special gold ring in a ceremony in Germany by his superiors.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, January 5, from 10 to 12:30, at which time his formal procession will depart the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at one o’clock in St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church, Orange. Interment will immediately follow in Orange Center Cemetery. The family would like to extend their gratitude for the care received by Connecticut Hospice, Maplewood Assisted Living, and the VA of West Haven.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s honor to The Connecticut Hospice or the St. Barbara Building Fund.
Marion Jeannette Mark Ahrens
Marion Jeannette Mark Ahrens, age 87, widow of the late Alfred J. Ahrens, Jr. of Milford, CT died on January 2, 2023.
Born in Milford in 1935 to George and Alice Mark, she was an alumna of the Milford Public School System. Except for the three years at St. Luke’s Hospital in NYC leading to her RN degree, she was a lifelong Milford resident.
Marion worked many years as Office Manager for A. J. Ahrens and Son, an oil delivery business. She later worked in the Registrars of Voters Office for the City of Milford. She was passionate about the right and responsibility to vote.
She is survived by her daughter, Marty Ahrens and Marty’s husband, Gary Madison, of Waltham, MA, her three grandchildren and their spouses: Sarah and Xander He; James A. and Jenny Dowers of Milford; Melissa and Andrew Ciaravino of Randolph, NJ; by her son-in-law, James Dowers and his wife, Trish Saweikis of Brewster, NY; and her sisters, Ruth McDonald of Houston, TX and Helen Riha of Milton, FL.
Marion was predeceased by her husband, parents, daughter Amy Dowers, son, Alfred J. Ahrens III, and her sister Carol Gara.
Marion loved spending time with her family and with the various animals she had over the years. She also enjoyed reading, cards, crosswords, jigsaw puzzles, and travel. A social person with diverse interests, she was quick to engage in conversation with those she just met.
Over the years, she volunteered with numerous organizations, including the Milford chapter of the American Red Cross, the Milford Historical Society, the Milford Public Library Board of Directors, Network of Executive Women, Milford Hospital Auxiliary, Republican Town Committee, Milford Land Trust, River Park Housing Board of Directors, numerous volunteer activities at the First United Church of Christ Congregational in Milford, including a Sunday School teacher and Diaconate and most recently, the Emma Davis Medical Equipment Ministry which helps people get medical equipment. At Carriage Green, she served as president of the Resident Council for the past three years.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, January 6, 2023 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 BRIDGEPORT AVENUE, MILFORD. A Memorial Service will he held on Saturday, January 7, at 10:00 a.m.at First United Church of Christ (Congregational) 34 West Main street, Milford. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Emma Davis Medical Equipment Ministry at the First United Church of Christ Congregational in Milford or a charity or your choice.
Here is the link to the live broadcast of Marion’s funeral service. It will be available to view on this site for several months.
https://events.locallive.tv/worship/first-united-church-milford
It will also be uploaded to our YouTube page next week and archived indefinitely.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCs6OFntozODF8Yr7fZ87ueg/videos
Sally Anderson
Sally Anderson, a longtime resident of New York City, died peacefully at her home on January 5, 2023. Sally grew up in Stillwater, MN with her parents, the late J. Edward and Gertrude (Rothschild) Slaughter, and with her younger sister Nancy, now also deceased.
After graduating from Carleton College, Sally first worked as an elementary school teacher, and then went on to successfully complete studies at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies. She ultimately re-located to New York City to join the global headquarters of the Institute of International Education, a world-renowned organization which manages international educational exchange programs under Ford Foundation and other grants.
Sally’s diverse interests included a passionate love of opera, history studies, and world travel.
In 1969, Sally married Henry W. Anderson (“Hank”), the love of her life. Together, she and Hank involved themselves in his private accounting practice and his presidency and numerous activities of the Society of Former Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and enjoyed boating weekends at Hank’s Milford, CT hometown and occasional trips here and abroad.
Throughout her life, Sally was devoted to her church and her church family and the many varied organizations and causes she staunchly supported. She unfailingly had a smile and a good word for everyone she met, and touched so many lives with her kind, caring, gracious, and generous spirit. “She was like a sunny day: Always smiling and cheerful”. As a neighbor observed, Sally was “classy, sweet, and a lady”.
Sally is survived by a cousin, John Slaughter, and her Anderson family: Brian, Erin, Matthew, Millie, and Susan, and Hank’s nieces and nephews and their families.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 12, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at Cody-White Funeral Home in Milford, CT. A memorial service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of New York City (fpcnyc.org) on Sunday, February 5, 2023, at 2:30 p.m. The memorial service will be livestreamed and available on YouTube.
Carol L. Bakunas
Carol L. Bakunas, age 75, formerly of Milford, left us on December 27, 2022 after a battle with cancer. She was the daughter of the late John and Marie (Behlen) Bakunas. Born and raised in Milford, Carol moved to Cape Cod where she ran two very successful restaurants, The Arbor and the Binnacle in Orleans, MA. She resided on the Cape in the summer and traveled to Florida for the winter months. Carol was a free spirit who travelled the world and made friends wherever she went. She is survived by her siblings, Gini Kasper, Marie Bakunas, Giovanna Vitau, Joan Bakunas, Spike Bakunas, Steve Bakunas, Paula Palermo, and Patty Bakunas, as well as many nieces and nephews. Services will be private. Donations in her name can be made to Cape Wellness Collaborative, 11 Potter Ave., Hyannis, MA, 02601, helping people facing cancer. Capewellness.org.
Adrienne T. Baumgartner
Adrienne was an eccentric, warm and generous woman with a huge heart. The people who knew and loved her would agree that she would do anything for those she cared about. She had a passion for helping others, which she applied during her career as a drug and alcohol counselor. Adrienne continued to educate herself and gain a deep empathy and understanding of those who suffer from addiction through her work as a parole officer. As a certified hypnotist, she used hypnotherapy to assist people overcome a myriad of personal struggles. Adrienne loved animals (sometimes more than people). Her many dogs she took in and cared for over the years held a very special place in her heart (most notably, Boomer the Rottweiler, Skeezix the Yorkshire Terrier and Rocky the Pitbull Mix). She was an extremely avid reader. She devoured books faster than Amazon could keep up with her. Adrienne also enjoyed spending time connecting with people of all walks of life through social media. She made many friends this way and loved being able to check in with them every day. Her grandchildren were her world. They were the light of her life; nothing made her happier than hearing from them and being updated on their lives. They made her life complete. She was an exceptional human being and will be so deeply and terribly missed by everyone whose lives she touched.
In addition to her husband, James, Adrienne is survived by her children, Edward Fast, Jr., Adrienne Palmer (William), and Douglas Fast (AnnMarie); grandchildren, Alyssa (Joe) Kondor and Kaitlyn Palmer (Pasquale); a sister, Gladys (Philip) LaMastra; and many cherished cousins, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, August Alfred DiStasi (who immigrated from Italy and established a successful insurance agency) and Ruth Letsch, a homemaker; a sister, Anita Streeter; and a grandson, Christopher Palmer.
Funeral services will be held privately. Memorial contributions may be directed to Murphy’s Paw Rescue, visit www.murphyspaw.org/ donate for different options to give. To sign her online guest register, please visit www. LeskoPolkeFuneralHome.com.
John W. Bird Jr.
John W. Bird Jr., age 76, formerly of Decatur, IN and Trumbull and Milford, CT passed away at his home in Delray Beach, FL on December 14th, 2022, after a brief, but hard-fought battle with lung cancer. In his final days at home, he was surrounded by his loving family.
John was a loving, generous, kind, caring man that lived his life as a faithful servant of God. He was affiliated with many churches throughout his life, served as a Deacon, led Bible studies and prayer chains and remained active in worship, attending church weekly. He raised his children in the church and always kept God at the center of his daily life. He was a proud friend of Bill W. He was a loving husband and his family was everything to him. He was a steady, strong family leader and was adored by his 6 siblings, 5 children, 6 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, family members and friends. His quiet strength and soft caring demeanor touched many people throughout his life and he was well respected and admired by all that knew him.
John was born in Decatur, IN on December 5th, 1946, the eldest of 7 children. He grew up in a farming community and shortly after graduating high school he left home to join the United States Air Force, where he served for 4 years. His service to his country took him to Japan and Vietnam, where he worked in intelligence and communications to support air missions during the Vietnam War. In 1967, he was awarded an Air Medal for participation in dangerous combat missions in Southeast Asia. He was later honorably discharged in 1970.
He met his first loving wife Anne M. (Lepore) Bird to whom he was married for 23 years and lived in Connecticut where they had 3 children, Sheri, Cathy and Brian. When he returned from Vietnam, he started work at Nash Engineering, in Norwalk and later Trumbull, CT, as a computer engineer and later was promoted to Director. John worked at Nash Engineering for 37 years before retiring in 2005. After the passing of his first wife, he considered himself lucky enough to find another soulmate and love, Donna McKay O’Connor, to whom he was married for 30 years up to the date of his death. He assumed the role of father and together they raised her sons, Sheehan and Kyle. In 2005, he and Donna relocated to Highland Beach, Florida and later Delray Beach, FL. He became an Enrolled Agent Tax Advisor with H+R Block where he worked for 17 years serving and befriending his colleagues and clients, retiring only weeks prior to his death.
He is preceded in death by his first wife, Anne M. (Lepore) Bird, his parents John W Bird, Sr. and Mildred E. (Deysenroth) Bird, his sister Patricia (Bird) Clem, sister-in-law Penny (Jordan) Bird, brother-in-law Dennis McKay and father-in-law Robert J McKay.
He is survived by his wife Donna McKay O’Connor and their 5 children; daughter Sheri Barsoum of Delray Beach, FL, daughter Cathy Lee and partner Marty Katz of S. Weymouth, MA, son Brian Bird and wife Jeny of Seattle, WA, son Sheehan O’Connor and wife Tara of Stuttgart, Germany, and son Kyle Murphy of Boston, MA. His surviving siblings include brothers, Stewart Bird and wife Jo of Columbia City, IN, Steven Bird of Decatur, IN, and sisters Carol (Bird) Phillips and husband Curt of Decatur, IN, Lori Bird of Fort Wayne, IN and Penny Bird of Fort Wayne, IN, and brother-in-law Douglas McKay and wife Roxane of Wallingford, CT, brother-in-law George Steinfeld of Peyton, CO, brother-in-law Roy Lepore of Boston, MA, and sister-in-law Gail Robbins of Columbia, KY. His surviving grandchildren include Jacline Johnson, Jacob Barsoum, James Lee, Shannon Lee, Sarah Barsoum and Kennedy O’Connor as well as great-grandchild Noah Johnson. They will all remember him saying “Guess what? Grandpa loves you!”. His passing has left a void in our lives; however, his spirit will live on in us always.
The family would like to thank the staff at Lynn Cancer Institute, especially Dr. Matthen Mathew as well as the crisis care team at Trustbridge Hospice for their care and support to him and our family.
Calling hours will be at Cody White Funeral Home in Milford, CT on Tuesday December 27th from 3pm to 7pm.
Memorial service will be at Orange Congregational Church in Orange, CT on Wednesday December 28th, 2022 at 11am, immediately followed by military honors outside the church, then procession to Riverside Cemetery in Norwalk, CT for interment. (PLEASE MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH)
His family requests donations in lieu of flowers to the Connecticut Fallen Heroes Foundation in his honor.
Oliver G. Brangman II
Oliver G. Brangman II, 98, of Milford, beloved husband of Carolyn Brangman, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2022. Born on March 5, 1924 in New York, NY, he was the son of the late Oliver and Mable Brangman.
Please check back for an obituary. A memorial service will be announced at a later date.
Charles Brienza
Charles Brienza, 85, of Milford Connecticut beloved husband (63 years) of Eleanor (Miele) Brienza, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2022 at his home. Born on November 26, 1937 in Bronxville, NY he was the son of the late Pasquale and Theresa (Cornacchio) Brienza. He moved to Milford at an early age. He attended Milford schools.
Charles lived a fulfilled life and wore many hats. He loved his family, and his family loved him back. He was the biggest supporter for all of his children’s and grandchildren’s events. He devoted many hours watching them from Little League to adulthood. He was a fixture at all athletic fields.
He was a people person and known to many as Charles, Charlie, Chas, Mr. B., and the UPS driver. He was a 27-year UPS teamster. He loved his job because it allowed him to connect with people. He was a lifetime member of BOE ELKS #1589.
Charles was always ready to fire off a joke or make a situation funny. He loved humor.
He took pride in his gardening. So many people knew him as “the guy” who owned the house on the corner with the beautiful flowers.
He enjoyed occasional trips to the casino with his wife and was a scratch off lottery king hitting it big at one time.
In addition to his beloved wife Eleanor, Charles is survived by his children Charles (Joy) Brienza and Lisa (Richard) Piscitelli; cherished grandchildren, Gina and Sofia Brienza and Richard, Michael, and Rosalina Piscitelli. In addition, he is survived by his siblings Anna (Ted) Boynton and Carol Reilly, brother-in-law Frank Miele (SC), Jack (grand dog), and several nieces and nephews. Charles is predeceased by his beloved daughter Rosalie Brienza, sisters and brother-in-laws Dolores (Tom) Bova, Jeannie (Steve) Voros and Daniel Reilly.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday January 5, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. St Gabriel Parish Hall, 26 Broadway, Milford, CT 06460 (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH). Interment will follow directly after Mass at Kings Highway Cemetery, 271 Cherry Street, Milford CT. 06460. Family and friends may call from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday January 4, 2023 at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 BROAD ST., MILFORD, CT. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
Diane Caramanica
Survivors include her three loving sons, Anthony, Michael and Patsy Caramanica, a brother, Robert Bocchino, a sister, Elaine Lynch and her husband John, brother-in-law, Richard Caramanica, her cherished granddaughter, Jessica, two great-grandchildren, Ava Vano and Cole Vano, as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
A Funeral Service will take place on Thursday, January 5, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. in the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Road, Trumbull. Interment will follow in Kings Highway Cemetery, Milford. Friends may greet the family on Thursday morning from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. To leave an online condolence, visit us at www.abriola.com.
Timothy P. Casey
Timothy P. Casey, age 73, of Milford, formerly of Wethersfield, passed away suddenly at his home on December 21st, 2022. He was the youngest son of the late Thomas L. Casey, Sr. and Hazel (Pierson) Casey. Tim was a kind, loving, generous man who lived his life as a faithful servant of God and will be missed by many. Tim was born in Bridgeport, CT on April 17, 1949, the youngest of five children. Tim grew up in Milford, served his country in the 4th Infantry Division in Viet Nam and later became a plumber. He was predeceased by his sisters, Betsy Callahan, Kathleen Casey and brother Thomas L. Casey, Jr.
Tim is survived by his companion, Janet Barrille, daughter Susan Arietti, brother Michael Casey, grandchildren, great grandchildren, cousins, nephews, nieces and his beloved pets Jack and Mandi.
At Tim’s request, there are no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at 11:00 AM at Saint Gabriel Church (Saint Raphael Parish) 26 Broadway, Milford, CT 06460 (PLEASE MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH) followed by interment with military honors at Kings Highway Cemetery 271 Cherry Street Milford, CT 06460.
Raymond Norman Cole
Raymond Norman Cole, age 91, of Milford, beloved husband of the late Joan Mae Smith, passed away on December 24, 2022 at Bridgeport Hospital. Raymond was born in Milford on May 4, 1931 to the late Le Roy Nearing and Elizabeth Hubay Cole. He attended Milford Schools. Ray was a beach boy! He was in the Air Force during the Korean War. He loved his family, and his family loved him. Ray was a baseball coach for little league years ago. He was a sports fan, watching all sports on tv. He was employed by American Chain and Cable before going to Sikorsky aircraft. He was so proud to work at Sikorsky and retired from there. He traveled cross country two times with Joan. He loved going to the casinos and playing the lottery and scratch offs. He enjoyed sitting in his chair on his front porch relaxing. He is survived by his children, Deborah Trumpower, Le Roy Cole and Elaine Casey all of Milford, brother, Alan Cole, brother-in-law, David Smith (Diane) and three grandchildren, Kristine Casey, Patricia Casey, Courtney Swift (Ray) and a great-grandchild, Ray Swift IV and several nieces and nephews. Raymond is predeceased by his sisters, Janet Ryan and Arlene Rice and his grandson, Shawn Watson.
Raymond De Aquino
Raymond De Aquino, 93, of Orange, Connecticut, beloved husband of Joan (Meni) De Aquino, passed away on December 14, 2022. Born on October 3, 1929, in Astoria, Queens, New York, he was the son of the late Rose Angel.
Raymond was a career engineer and member of teams that developed next-generation pilot seats and other advanced component systems, and manager over the sprawling programs at Grumman Aerospace Corporation that were responsible for among his era’s most storied military aircraft, and the one that put men on the moon. To his last days, his eyes glistened with pride in thinking back on those accomplishments and about the friendships that were forged in that magical time on Long Island, New York.
Raymond was deeply devoted to his family, loved his wife Joan with an abiding passion, and served as a role model of warmth, wisdom, and gentleness for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed gathering them around a table and lifting them up (along with a glass of wine) with stories and laughter. He got a kick out of casino play and enjoyed overseas travel with friends and family. Raymond and Joan held hands every night as sleep came.
In addition to his wife, Joan De Aquino, Raymond is survived by his children, Joan Lachowitz and Eleanor Bravman, and son-in-law Richard Edward Bravman. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Erica Lachowitz and Richard Alexander Bravman (and his wife Keri). Raymond is also survived by his great-grandchildren Charlie Ray Bravman, Cole Norman Bravman, and Elise Lachowitz. Raymond is predeceased by his son-in-law Richard Lachowitz.
Please check back for Service Information.
Interment will be private.
To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
Shawn A. Gagain
Shawn Anthony Gagain, 57, of Milford, passed away on January 3, 2023. Born on February 21, 1965 in Milford, he was the son of the late Peter Anthony and Dorothy Susan Gagain.
Shawn is survived by his siblings, Michael (Kim Wilk) Gagain, Yvonne (John) Coburn, and Kevin (Kimberly ) Gagain; sister-in-law, Linda Gagain; longtime girlfriend, Kathleen Miller; nieces and nephews, Nikita (Matt) Dube, Joshua (Ava) Gagain, Derek (Ciara) Wilson, and Katey Wilson; aunts and uncles, Judy (Howard) Elliott, and Ronald (Lynne) Gagne; and many more family and friends.
Being a lifetime resident of Milford, CT Shawn was educated all the way through Foran High School.
He worked the past 21 years for Cumberland Farms as a petroleum delivery truck driver where he earned a coveted Million Miles Driven award.
While not working, he loved time spent with family and friends including his relationship with Kathleen since the 8th grade. Shawn kept in touch with his core of childhood (Point Beach) friends. Shawn had a deep passion for music; from playing the guitar with his buddy Rob Ryan; and recording music from his own creations to friend’s bands. He loved many genres making him a whiz at music trivia against his brothers. Simple things that always made Shawn happy; anything music related or going out to a local favorite Indian restaurant(s).
The family is being compassionately cared for by the staff at Cody-White Funeral Home 107 Broad Street, Milford, CT 06460.
Ronald Gibbons
Ronald Gibbons, 79, of Orange, CT, passed on New Year’s Day, 2023, after a battle with cancer. Ron was soulmates with Hilery Flynn Gibbons, whom he was married to for 55 years. High school sweethearts from Milford High School, they married in 1967, after dating for eight years. Ron was also the first graduating class from Jonathan Law.
Ron was born on October 4, 1943, to John and Ethel Gibbons. He was a great son-in-law to George and Evelyn Flynn, all from Milford. Ron was predeceased by his younger brother, John Gibbons of Milford, and he leaves behind his sister, Joyce Pagano.(Richard). Ron was an amazing brother-in-law to Faun Flynn Katson, and Bradd Flynn,who he predeceased, and Jim Flynn of Milford and Sebastian, Florida. He leaves behind nieces and nephews: Joanne Flynn Chockey, Jim Flynn, Shane Gibbons, Jessica Gibbons, and Heather Pagano.
After graduating Central, with an Engineering Degree, Ron went to become a Senior Project Engineer, and a Cad-Cam Designer for Schick Warner Lambert, where he worked for 25 years. He spent his retirement being a “Ski Bum”, snowboarding and skiing in Vermont, Aspen, and Cortina, Italy. Traveling with Hilery to many European countries and turning a blindside to her shopping sprees!
Marrying Hilery, he had two daughters, who drove him crazy, but he loved it. His daughters, Kellie (Martino), and Tracie (McDermott) left him outnumbered. Their friends will always remember “Mr. G” throwing epic birthday parties, Haunted Houses and Scavenger Hunts. “G” as he was lovingly referred to was really happy and blessed with his two son-in-laws, Ed Martino and Brian McDermott, who were the sons he never had.
Ronny leaves behind five grandchildren who all were very athletic. He and Hilery were able to watch high school, prep school and collegiate play. Poppy rooted for MaryKate and EmilyRose at Canterbury Prep, Eddie at South Kent, and McKenzie and Bailey at Amity; and he learned to love Volleyball, Lacrosse and Hockey. He later enjoyed following Bailey at Southern Ct. for Lax, and Hobart William Smith for Em and M.K’s hockey. Poppy never hesitated to take road trips for tournaments anywhere, even to Canada because he hated to miss a game. If he couldn’t see it in person, he streamed games at home, and always stood in front of the T.V for the National Anthem! He worked really hard to follow the accomplishments of all the young people around him.
Even though Ron, the dad, was strict, and would not let Tracie or Kellie take the day off for Prom hairdos, he often picked his grandkids up to sneak in a day on the slopes, or a day on the fairways. He took all the kids and grandkids to Ride the Five Boroughs in the 50 mile N.Y Bike Tour, and was always biking around Cape Cod for quick jaunts of 80 miles or so.
Ron loved a round of golf, playing tennis, was the President of the New Haven Ski Club, a runner, a member of New Haven Bicycle Club, a Literary Volunteer of America, donated a lot of his time running events for the Special Olympics, and he was a huge history buff. He especially loved the beach and walking for miles with his family at low tide in Milford and Cape Cod. Ron Gibbons was the kind of guy people wanted to be around, because he never had a bad word to say about anybody. He was a great husband, the best dad, and ultimately the best Poppy.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Friday, January 6, 2023 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford. Sharing of Memories will take place on Saturday, January 7, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. A luncheon will immediately follow.
Kathleen D. Golden
Agnes Margaret Hanson
Agnes Margaret (Murcko) Hanson passed away peacefully on December 29, 2022 at her home of 57 years in Orange, Connecticut.
Born, March 28, 1921 in Thomaston, Connecticut, Agnes was the daughter of Mary Kochiss Murcko and Paul J Murcko. She grew up in Stratford, Connecticut. After her marriage to Gerald D Hanson in 1946, they were stationed at several naval bases, before settling in Milford and Orange, Connecticut to raise their family.
Agnes was a strong and independent woman. She was a talented seamstress, crafter and crocheted. After raising her family, she was employed as an office clerk to age eighty so that she could fund her insatiable desire to travel throughout Europe and Asia.
Agnes is survived by her sons Gregory E (Mary Claire) Hanson and Wayne C (Susan) Hanson; daughter-in-law, Sharon Myers; grandchildren Sarah Hanson Goodman, Kevin (Melissa) Hanson and Timothy Hanson; great-grandchildren, Levi and Madeline Daughtery, Cheyenne and Beau Goodman, Logan and Lucas Hanson, and several nieces and nephews.
She is predeceased by her spouse of 65 years, Gerald D. Hanson, her daughter Karen P Hanson, and her siblings, Joseph Murcko, Evelyn Murcko and William Murcko.
A Graveside Service will take place at the convenience of the family with Rev. L. Kenneth Fellenbaum officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice.
Julianne Hartman
Julianne “Julie” Hartman, 82, longtime Milford resident, beloved wife of Frederick G. Hartman, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loved ones on December 16, 2022 after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Born on November 3, 1940 in Norfolk, VA, she was the daughter of the late Mary and Peter Polanin.
Julianne planted her roots down in Milford around 1968. Her love for God, life, family and friends was unprecedented. She was the devoted wife of 61 years to Fred; mother to two sons, Freddy and Paul; grandmother to Louie; eldest sister to Joe Lappi, Kathi Figueroa, and the late Frank Lappi; along with being the beloved aunt and friend to so many (especially to her most special friend of 63 years, Mary Brady, to whom she spoke with every single night until her last day).
Julianne’s love for God lead her to the Saint Agnes Church where she could be found every Sunday. Both her sons received their baptism, first Holy Communion, and Confirmation there. Her favorite priest was Father Calahan.
In a time when most mothers stayed at home, Julianne shined the brightest by working full time as an officer manager (a job she did not only at work but at home too). Julianne was the family matriarch, their rock, and the glue that held them all together. Her presence will be greatly missed.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT 06460. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, December 29, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Agnes Church (Precious Blood Parish), 400 Merwin Ave., Milford. Burial will be private.
John S. Holthaus
John S. Holthaus, 72, of Milford, loving husband of Patricia Sullivan Holthaus, passed away peacefully at home with his wife and children by his side on December 30, 2022. Born on December 22, 1950, in Terre Haute, Indiana, he was the son of the late Richard and Eleanor Holthaus. Along with his wife, John is survived by his children, Kathryn (Michael) Reardon, Susan Holthaus, Ryan (Julia) Holthaus, and Megan (Justin) Dionne; grandchildren, Hayden, Aubrey, Camryn, Jack, Zack, Ella, Decker John, and Beckett Rhodes; and many extended family, good friends and colleagues.
John graduated from the University of Rhode Island in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in economics, and went to work in the chemical industry, ending his career with Borden & Remington based in Fall River, Massachusetts. He was a past president of The Chemical Club of New England, where he made many lifelong friends.
John married Patty on July 20, 1974 in Warwick, Rhode Island. The couple lived briefly in Ohio before settling in Morningside where they raised their four children. John could often be found walking the Morningside hills in his red Ohio State sweatshirt and talking with his neighbors and friends. He spent his summers with his family in Narragansett, Rhode Island, surfing, boogie boarding and treating his wife, children and grandchildren to fruit slices and mints from Sweenor’s Chocolates. John, or “Grandpa Johnny” as his grandkids called him, loved bringing his grandchildren on errands around town while listening to The Beach Boys, and he especially enjoyed taking his grandsons for haircuts.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, January 7, 2023 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad Street, Milford. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Prostate Cancer Foundation.
Donna Jeanne Hrebik
Donna Jeanne Hrebik, 61, of Milford, passed away on December 26, 2022. Born on November 9, 1961, in Manhattan, New York, she was the daughter of the late Waldo & Marian (Hess) Brooks.
Donna grew up in Ossining, NY where she graduated Ossining High School in 1979. She moved to Connecticut in 1981 and attended Housatonic Community College earning a degree in accounting. She worked for Automatic Data Processing in Milford for over 20 years.
Donna is survived by her brother, David Brooks and wife Deanna of Chapel Hill, NC.
In addition to her parents, Donna was predeceased by her daughter, Jennifer Hrebik.
A Graveside Service will be celebrated on Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Mt. St. Peter Cemetery, 219 New Haven Ave., Derby, CT 06418. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice.
Irvin H. Hurley, Jr. “Bud”
Irvin Henry “Bud” Hurley passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 17, 2022 at the home of his devoted daughter, Susan Tummins, in Milford, Connecticut surrounded by his loving family.
Born on November 1, 1924 in Natick, Massachusetts, Bud was the son of Margaret Murtagh Hurley and Irvin Henry Hurley Sr. and brother to his five loving sisters. He grew up in Milford, Connecticut where he later raised his family and resided for many years. Bud proudly served in the U. S. Army during World War II from 1943 to 1945.
Bud’s passion for mechanics began at just 8 years old when he began working at Lockwoods gas station in Woodmont, and later led to a successful career in engineering. From 1961 to 1967 Bud served as senior vice president and general manager of West Haven Shipyard and Diesel Service Incorporated, partnering with his sister Margaret Hurley Clark who was president of the company. During that time, he oversaw the development and construction of the Wepawaug Marina (now Milford Boat Works). Bud’s innovation and expertise led to an opportunity at The Tomasso Group, where in 1968, he was appointed head of purchasing and management of Tomasso’s entire fleet of construction vehicles. During his 22-year career at Tomasso, Bud was recognized for his innovative and strategic solutions, including designing and patenting four inventions that proved invaluable to the construction industry.
Bud’s passion for his rewarding career was surpassed only by his love and devotion to his family. In 1947, Bud married his highschool sweetheart, Roberta McGrady, and settled in Milford, where they raised their two beloved daughters, Susan and Janet. Bud loved skiing and spending time at their second home in Brattleboro, Vermont, camping with his grandchildren, traveling to new places, and hosting picnics and family reunions at their home in Wallingford. Bud was adored by his family, who will always remember his sharp wit, his huge heart, and his incredible generosity.
Bud is survived by his sister June Brown, his daughter Susan and son-in-law Robin Tummins,
grandchildren Sarah (Christopher) Bousquet, Kateri (Michael) Balduino, Peter (Lauren) Healy, Mary (Cory) MacEachen, Shaileen Tummins Morton (Scott McVeigh), Scott (Cyndy) Tummins, Brian (Amanda) Roller, Megan Roller, Douglas (Stacey) Roller, 18 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Roberta McGrady Hurley, his beloved daughter, Janet Hurley Roller, and his sisters Dorothy Hurley Terrell, Margaret Hurley Wolfe, Ruth Hurley Swift, and Frances Hurley Herbert.
The family would like to thank Preslyne Joseph and Liz Kaufman for their compassionate care of Bud.
There are no calling hours and internment will be private. Services will be handled by Cody White Funeral Home.
Linda Vivanne Iacono
Linda Vivanne Iacono was born on July 24, 1952 and passed away on December 1, 2010 at age 58.
Fred Kirkham
Frederick John Kirkham, 73, of Orange, beloved husband of 50 years to Maria (Cross) Kirkham, passed away peacefully at his home on January 4, 2023. Born on March 10, 1949 in Liverpool, England, he was the son of the late John and Jessie (Hallard) Kirkham.
Fred was very special to all that knew him. He was quiet, kind, humble and unassuming, yet he could light up a room when people saw him.
Fred grew up in Liverpool, England and always said it was ‘a great place and time to be young.’ He had a silent but special bond with his sister Kay whom he adored and admired and became even closer in the latter years of his life.
As a teenager his first job was repairing bicycles at a local bike shop to help earn enough money to fund his love of competitive cycling. It later turned from two to four wheels and so began his love and obsession with cars.
Fred attended Liverpool Collegiate School in England and went on to practice as a Quantity Surveyor for several years.
He later decided to relocate to South Devon where he pursued a career in forestry and tree surgery. He started his own company called Treescape Services and became the largest employer in his village for the next thirteen years, until the country fell into a recession. At the same time his father suffered a stroke and became infirm so he decided it was a good time to return to Liverpool to help care for his elderly parents.
It was there he decided to further pursue his life long passion with cars by starting a wholesale automobile company throughout England.
After his father passed it was time for a new chapter and in 1989 he had the opportunity to work in America doing tree removal and landscape installations. Over the years his flair for design and his vision and ability to create beautiful landscapes, be it small or large, enabled him to show his many skills. The culmination of his working career ended in what he would consider his one true goal in life, helping both his sons, develop their careers and provide for their families.
Fred’s retirement time, though very short, consisted of spending time with his bride of 50 years, being entertained by his grandchildren and spending time with his much loved family and friends.
Son, grandson, cyclist, car enthusiast, artist, good friend, father, uncle, grandfather, and husband. He was a wonderful man treasured by all who knew and loved him.
In addition to his loving wife Maria, Fred is survived by his sons, John (Elizabeth) Kirkham and Edward (Jacklyn) Kirkham; grandchildren, Jessie Kirkham, Frederick John Kirkham, and Tayshaun Gunn; his sister Marilyn “Kay” (Michael) Ashley of England; a sister-in-law, Christine (Richard) Russo; 12 siblings-in-law of England; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Friends and family may call from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, January 13, 2023 at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 BROAD ST., MILFORD, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 14, 2023 at 10 a.m. at Saint Gabriel Church (Saint Raphael Parish) 26 Broadway, Milford, CT (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH). Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice.
Stella Theresa (Szurnicki) Konopka
Stella Theresa Konopka, age 95, of Milford, beloved wife of the late Edward F. Konopka, entered eternal rest on December 18, 2022.
She was born on January 25, 1927 in Plymouth, PA and was the daughter of the late Stanley and Frances (Trazko) Szurnicki. Stella worked for many years at Remington Shavers before her retirement. Stella was a devout Catholic and member of St. Ann Church.
Stella is survived by her devoted grandchildren, James Konopka and his wife Stephenie of Swanzey, NH and Cheryl Gowlis and her husband, Jared of Shelton and loving great grandchildren, Sophie, Julia, and Benjamin Konopka and Jack Gowlis and daughter in law, Claudia Konopka of Shelton. She also leaves her sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Prezioso of Milford and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by son, Edward M. Konopka and six brothers and sisters.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. (Directly) at St. Ann Church (Saint Raphael Parish), 501 Naugatuck Avenue, Milford. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to EWTN at https://www.ewtn.com/missions/love-and-understanding-of-god-1
Arrangements are cared for by the GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 BRIDGEPORT AVENUE, MILFORD.
Donald Jackson Lewis
Donald Jackson Lewis Sr., 90, of Orange passed away with his family at his side on January 6, 2022, at the West Haven Veterans Administration Hospital. For 67 years, he was the loving husband of Jean Marie Malaby Lewis. Donald was born in Philadelphia, PA, son of the late Albert and Hilda Lewis. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Debra Corey and her husband Craig of CO, Donald Lewis Jr. and his wife Bonnye, and Karen McDermott and her husband Douglas, all of Orange; his 7 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; as well as his sister Beverly Barley of PA. He was predeceased by his siblings, Catherine Boothe, Virginia Sheppard, and Albert Lewis.
Donald was a proud USMC Veteran, serving in the Korean War, and he was a member of the American Legion, Post 127. In his professional career, Donald was an Insurance Agent for State Farm Insurance. He was very active in his community of Orange, serving in many capacities. He was Vice President of West Orange Civic Association, a past President of the Chamber of Commerce, past Chairman of Orange Economic Development Commission, past Chairman of the Board of Police Commissioner (25 years of service), past President of Rotary Club, where he was the recipient of the Paul Harris Fellow and a 50-year membership award. He was also a past Scoutmaster of Troop 7. Donald enjoyed his lifetime of public service to the Town of Orange.
Family and friends are invited to go directly to the Orange Congregational Church on Wednesday at 2 pm for a funeral service. Interment, with military honors, will follow in Orange Center Cemetery. There will be no hours for visitation.
Mary T. Loch
Mary T. Loch, 66, of Milford, beloved wife of the late Raymond Loch, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 25, 2022. Born on December 6, 1956 in Bridgeport, CT, she was the daughter of the late Angelo and Angelina (Zullo) Alarcon.
Mary graduated from Stratford High School in 1974. She worked at Read’s before staying home to raise her children. She later worked at Teri Anna’s Ceramic Studio sharing her enjoyment of ceramics and art.
Mary was full of life and always very active. She spent time doing yoga, playing softball and working out. She enjoyed spending time with friends playing mahjong, ceramics and different activities. She also loved watching the birds in the yard; making sure to feed them at her various bird feeders. She loved to host parties welcoming everyone into her home, cooking for them, and providing a place for everyone to laugh and have fun. Family and friends were very important to Mary and she was always there for them. She was the most selfless, caring, and kind woman. She entered every room with a big smile, spreading so much light and love.
Mary is survived by her children, Stacy Loch, Eric (Fani) Loch; grandson, Rene; siblings, Diane (Shawn) Welch, Joann (Eddie) Krause, and Debbie Torres; and several nieces and nephews, numerous cousins, many friends, and two dogs.
A Memorial Service will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.
John Lungi
Calling hours will be held on Friday from 9 to 11 Am in the Lesko & Polke Funeral Home, 1209 Post Road in Fairfield Center, followed by his Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 AM in Saint Ann Church 481 Brewster Street, Bridgeport. His interment will be private.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Saint Jude Childrens Hospital (www.stjude.org) To read his complete obituary, for travel directions, or to sign his guest registry, please visit www.LeskoPolkeFuneralHome.com.
Regina M. Machernis
Regina Michelle (Prokoski) Machernis, 63, of Milford beloved wife of David Machernis peacefully went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on December 25, 2022. Regina was born December 29, 1958 in Bridgeport CT to Elvira and the late Raymond J. Prokoski. She was a long time resident of Milford and a 1976 graduate of Jonathan Law High School, where she was a talented athlete being a co-captain of JV volleyball team. She was a very caring and compassionate person. Along with her husband, Regina shared a strong Christian faith and she was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary often praying the Rosary. Regina was particularly proud of her martial arts skills, having attained several degrees of black belt in Tae Kwondo. She enjoyed cats, feeding the birds, and playing chess and tennis. Regina was a communicant of Precious Blood Parish in Milford.
In addition to her devoted husband, David, Regina is survived by her mother Elvira Prokoski of Milford, a brother Raymond M. Prokoski of Branford, two sisters Rosanne Margeson and her husband Robert of Milford, and Ramona Prokoski of Milford along with a nephew. Regina was predeceased by her father Raymond J. Prokoski.
Regina’s family will receive friends and relatives on December 29, 2022 from 5:00-7:00 P.M. at Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St. Milford, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on December 30, 2022 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Mary Church (Precious Blood Parish), 70 Gulf St., Milford, CT. Interment will follow at Mount Saint Benedict Cemetery, 1 Cottage Grove Rd., Bloomfield, CT 06002. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Regina’s name to the American Heart Association, 7272 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75321.
Anthony Malangone
Anthony Malangone, age 46 of West Haven, passed away unexpectedly on August 14, 2021. He was the loving husband of Carrie Ann Russo Malangone, and the proud father of Joseph, Torianna, and the late Victoria Malangone. In addition to his wife and children, Anthony is survived by his mother Caterina Maiese Malangone, his sisters Angela (Paul) Marino and Palma (Sal) Carbone, and his nieces Alyssa & Gia, and nephew Guiseppe. He was predeceased by his father, Guiseppe Malangone.
Anthony worked as a self-employed plumber for many years. He was a huge NY Yankees fan, and enjoyed collecting comics and baseball cards. His proudest moments were when his beloved children were born. He loved to watch his son play baseball. He loved to attend his daughter’s recitals and competitions for dance, cheer, and gymnastics. Anthony was very supportive and proud of Carrie, and all the charitable work she did with the Girl Scouts, West Haven Rotary, and the city of West Haven. Anthony loved working in the yard, and had fun traveling with his wife and kids. He will be greatly missed.
Visitation will take place on Thursday, August 19, from 4 – 8PM at West Haven Funeral Home at the Green. Anthony’s funeral procession will leave the funeral home on Friday at 9 o’clock, to celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Anthony’s Church, New Haven at 9:30AM. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery. MASKS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL SERVICES. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Joseph & Torianna Malangone.
Ralph J. Martone Jr.
Jim Matera
James E. Matera, Jr., 88, of Milford, beloved husband of Mary (Roos) Matera, passed away on December 18, 2022. Born on June 10, 1934 in Bridgeport, CT, he was the son of the late James E. and Annette (Inglis) Matera. Jim proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Army. Jim was a graduate of Central High School, Bridgeport. He continued his education through completion of various finance courses. Jim utilized his strong skills in efficiency as an office manager of small businesses in the lumber and HVAC industries. Jim’s love of numbers was always present in his talks with his grandchildren. (Whether they wanted to hear it or not.) He loved to play cards with friends and family, was an avid golfer, and could often be seen laughing with the staff at Foxwoods while enjoying a good roll at the dice table. Jim’s greatest joy was spending quality time with each of his nine grandchildren.
In addition to his loving wife, Mary, Jim is survived by his daughters, Susan Matera Baglas, Donna (Alex Colondona) Matera, and Nancy (Wayne) Matera Coury; his grandchildren, Eleanor (John McGrath) Baglas, Nicholas (Jessica Johnson) Baglas, and Christina Baglas, Anthony (Jenna) Donofrio, Elizabeth (Christian) Cortes, Joshua Colondona, Alexandra Colondona, James Coury and Joseph Coury; his great grandchildren, Anthony Donofrio and Audrina Cortes; siblings, Carol Matera Bonvicini, and Patrick Matera; sisters-in-law, Josephine Matera and Kathleen Roos, many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. Jim was predeceased by his first wife and the mother of his three daughters, Eleanor (Peterson) Matera; his brother, John Matera; his siblings-in-law, Guido Bonvicini, and Eleanore Matera; two sons-in-law, Christos Baglas and John Donofrio, and mother-in-law Mary Morgan.
Friends and family may call from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, December 23, 2022 at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 BROAD ST., MILFORD, CT. A Memorial Service will immediately follow at the funeral home. Interment will be private.
Judith Ann (Knoche) Mattson
Judith Ann (Knoche) Mattson, 75, of Milford, passed away on Tuesday, December 27, 2022 in Bridgeport Hospital after a short illness. She was the widow of Robert B. Mattson, who passed away in September. They were married 46 years.
Judy was the daughter of the late John L. and Dorothy Lee (MacDowell) Knoche. She was born on May 9, 1947, in Bridgeport and grew up in Stratford, graduating from Bunnell High School in 1966.
She was employed by a number of companies over the years, including Remington Arms, Tilo, Sikorsky Aircraft, and The Milford Bank.
Along with her husband, Bob, Judy was a longtime volunteer for many organizations, including the Elks, Masons, and Shriners. She was a marshal and an active member of the Daughters of the Nile, Pyremus Temple #82, for many years. Judy was also a former clarinet player in the Milford Community Band and especially enjoyed performing at their Christmas concerts. She also enjoyed camping, going to tag sales, and doing word puzzles.
In addition to her husband and parents, Judy was predeceased by her sister-in-law, Helen (Mattson) Peterson. She is survived by her brother Alan (Nancy) Knoche of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, niece Karen (James) Dalby of Milford, nephew Raymond Peterson of St. Louis, Missouri, great-niece and great-nephew Kaitlyn and James Dalby, Jr. of Milford, an aunt, and six cousins.
All services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.
Beatrice M. Monopoli
Beatrice M. Monopoli, 92, of Orange, CT, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2023. Born on November 6, 1930, in Scranton, PA, she was the daughter of Joseph and Mary Lennick. Beatrice was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great grandmother. Beatrice grew up in Scranton, PA and moved to Milford, CT with her husband in 1953. She worked at A&P and then went on to work at Burndy Corporation in Milford, CT. She loved her family and spending time with all her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Beatrice loved Bingo, watching the water at the beach and vacations up north. Beatrice is survived by her daughter, MaryAnn Spangler of Milford, grandson, Ronald Spangler of NC, grandson, Michael Spangler of Hamden, grandson, Casey and Adrianne Spangler of FL, granddaughter, Sandra and Michael Mangan of Oxford, 12 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild, sister, Connie Weisel, of Burlin and many nieces and nephews. Beatrice was predeceased by her husband, Sante Monopoli, Son in law, Ronald J. Spangler, sisters: Ann Ramakis, Mary Schonleber, Evelyn Leon, Rose Renda, and Elizabeth Vaicekauskas, brothers: Albert Lennick, Joeseph Lennick, and Peter Lennick. Family and Friends are invited to gather on Thursday the 12th of January from 2:00 P.M.-6:00 P.M. at Cody White Funeral Home, 107 Broad Street, Milford, CT 06460. Burial will be private.
Catherine M. Payne
Catherine M. Payne, 75, of Milford, CT, beloved wife of the late Tomas Payne, passed away on December 29, 2022. Born on July 20, 1947 in Wilkes-Barre, PA she was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Bubble.
Catherine was a Licensed Practicing Nurse for 45 years. She is survived by her daughter, Michele Fox and son-in-law, Jason Fox; and nephew, Charles Bubble, Jr. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Charles Bubble.
Friends and family are invited to gather from 10am to 12pm on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford. A Funeral Service will begin at 11:45am at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Milford Cemetery, 35 Gulf St., Milford. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice.
Clara P. Petrowski
Clara Pauline Petrowski, 88, of Milford, Connecticut, beloved wife of the late SMSgt. Edward Steven Petrowski, Sr., passed away peacefully on December 30, 2022. Born on August 11, 1934 in Norwich, Connecticut, Clara is the daughter of the late Clara and Andrew Kubik, Jr.
She grew up in the Uncasville area of Montville, CT with many memories of summers spent in New York City with her grandparents and also at home of the Mohegan Indians and Harold Tantaquidgeon and his Museum. Clara graduated High School from Norwich Free Academy.
After marriage, she loved playing women’s softball and was offered to try out for professional ball with the Raybestos Brakettes, but became pregnant with her only son. Later Clara continued to play softball in a local Milford league pitching fast pitch for the team and did Synchronized swimming for many years with the Aqua Maids. As a family, she loved to play golf with her husband, son and friends.
Clara is survived by her only son Edward Steven Petrowski, Jr. of Milford, her niece Linda (Pearson) Crossett and husband Kenneth (NY), Cody Pearson, son of her late nephew Andrew Pearson (CT) and her pet cat Chelsea (Miss Puss). She is also survived by many loving in-laws: sister-in-law Judith Buchert (CT), brother-in-law Robert Petrowski and his wife Judy (FL). nephews and nieces: Richard Petrowski, Cathy Hewitt, John Petrowski, Anne Lipe, Patricia Arwood, William Buchert, Karen Buchert, Jill Hill, Betsy Herring, Ann Allen, Joseph Kirchner and Heidi Kirchner.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, January 5, 2023 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 BROAD STREET, MILFORD, CT 06460. Interment will be private. Flowers may be sent directly to Cody-White Funeral Home. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
William Joseph Ploof
William Joseph Ploof, age 53, of Meriden, passed away on January 2, 2023. He was born on July 29, 1969 in Bridgeport and the son of Helen (Burhance) Ploof of Milford and the late William H. Ploof. Billy worked as a Head Mechanic for Bozzuto’s for many years. He enjoyed spending time with his family and an avid camper. In addition to his mother, Billy leaves his devoted sisters, Donna Marie Ploof, Lisa Ann Ploof, and Debbie Noreen Ploof all of Milford and four nephews, several grand nieces and nephews and many dear friends. Family and friends may call on Monday, January 9, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 BRIDGEPORT AVENUE, MILFORD. A Graveside Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. at King’s Highway Cemetery, Milford. To share a memory, please visit www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.
Robert Post
Robert Post, 96, of Hamden, beloved husband of the late Irene Post, passed away on December 19, 2022. Born on January 20, 1926 in Jersey City, NJ, he was the son of the late Joseph and Rose (Wotman) Post.
Robert is survived by his sons, Albert Post and his wife Patricia Compagnone-Post, and Todd Post; grandchildren, Emily Post and her husband, Kyle Knutson, and Elizabeth Post; siblings, Laura, Barbara, Arthur, and Franklin; longtime companion, Isabell Kratochvil; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings, Leonard and Leatrice.
He was known as Bob to friends and family. He graduated from Haaren High School in New York City, served in the US Navy during World War II, married Irene in 1949, worked installing carpets for his own business on Long Island and as a member of the New York City District Council of Carpenters union at various times in his career, and raised his children in Seaford, NY. He was an active Mason and active member of the local American Legion Post. He served as Worshipful Master of Spartan Lodge 956, and as the Commander of the American Legion Post. Bob retired in 1989, moved to the Pittsburgh, PA area and then to New Haven after his wife died. Bob enjoyed many a round of golf until he was almost 90, and he was an avid reader of biographies, histories, and thrillers. He lived independently until 2021 when he moved into an assisted living facility.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Thursday, December 22, 2022 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home 107 Broad Street, Milford, CT 06460. A Funeral Service will be begin at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home that evening. Burial with Military Honors will take place on Friday, December 23, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. at the Calverton National Cemetery, Wading River, NY 11792 (MEET DIRECTLY AT THE CEMETERY).In lieu of flowers, consider donating to United States Veterans Initiative (usvets.org, donations are tax-deductible).
Linda DeSolla Price
Linda DeSolla Price was born in Singapore, Malaya, in 1950. Her parents were Derek J. de Solla Price, British physicist, historian of science, information scientist, and Professor of the History of Science at Yale, and Ellen Hjorth, a Dane raised in Copenhagen and a proud member of the Danish resistance, who as a teenager helped Jews escape to Sweden during the Nazi occupation of her country.
Linda manifested a sense of righteousness and goodness throughout her life, as well as a level of intelligence and wit that could be seen in her and her brothers. She passed her kindness, integrity, and other sensibilities down to her children. She emanated those qualities, spreading good energy and ideas to the people she met and who meant something to her.
Linda graduated from North Haven High School in 1968, and it was there that she met Bill Thompson, her high school sweetheart with whom she would reconnect some forty years later and remain a loving partner for the rest of her life. His importance to her was made incredibly clear by her constant and frequent visits to Brooklyn for fancy meals and meaningful connection.
Linda graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and got a Master’s degree from the University of Texas. She pursued many passions, including bookbinding and constructing intricate dollhouses enjoyed by her and her family.
Linda’s story also included a chapter with the father of her children, with whom her beloved grandchildren would not be possible, and a chapter with Andy Zartolas, who made a life-changing impression on her and her children – and to whom his children remained important to her life after his passing.
For many years, Linda was a Special Needs teacher at the Foundation School. There she helped challenged kids understand the workings of tools while constructing birdhouses and other such items. While the birdhouses were impressive, the care she showed to so many likely earned her some karmic points with the universe.
In her free time, Linda enjoyed her gardens and her lunch dates with her brothers Jeffrey and Mark, relaxing with a good book, and talking to her loved ones.
Linda will be missed by her children, Thomas and Beckie Demichele, her granddaughters Jocelyn DeMichele Revera and Adriana DeMichele, and by her brothers, Jeffrey Price (Esta) of Stamford and Mark de Solla Price of New York City. Her memory will also be cherished by her partner Bill and many friends and colleagues.
Everyone who loved Linda is invited to join the family for a celebration of Linda’s life on Thursday, December 29, 2022 starting at 2:00 p.m. in person at Cody-White Funeral Home 107 Broad St., Milford, CT 06460 or at 2:30 p.m. for streaming on the web at OneRoomStreaming. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity in Linda’s memory.
Please message Tom, Linda’s son, on Facebook to let him know if you would like to share your stories, thoughts, and memories. We will make every effort to share them with everyone at Linda’s celebration of life.
Kenneth Norman Ritchie, Sr.
Kenneth Norman Ritchie, Sr., age 93, of Milford, beloved husband of Barbara Caroline Ritchie for 71 years, died on Tuesday, December 27, 2022. Ken worked as a carpenter for many years and later as a machinist. He loved to spend time fishing and working on their cabin in New Hampshire. Survivors include his children, Kenneth N. Ritchie Jr. of Milford, Philip Ritchie and his wife Deborah of Clinton and Karen Ritchie of PA, two sisters, Beverly Peterson and Virginia Hampton, three grandchildren, Jessica, Brian and Matthew, three great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Kenneth is predeceased by his brothers, Allen and Donald Ritchie.
Family and friends may call on Saturday, January 14th from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. in The Gregory F. Doyle Funeral Home, 291 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford. Interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice. To leave an online condolence, please visit, www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.
Barbara E. Romaine
Barbara E. Romaine, age 84, of Milford, beloved mother and grandmother, entered into peaceful rest on Thursday, January 5, 2023 following a brief illness.
She was born on July 29, 1938 in Bridgeport and was the only daughter of the late Edward Kenyon and Kathryn Irene Tregenza Romaine. Barbara was a graduate of the Milford High School class of 1956 where she met her late former husband Dr. Jan Peter Fugal, MD. Following graduation, she became a licensed practical nurse beginning her lifelong nursing career dedicated to the care of her patients. She became a registered nurse in 1986 after graduating from the University of Bridgeport. Barbara spent her career caring for the elderly at Milford Health Care, Orange Health Care, and Seacrest Assisted Living, rising to the level of nursing supervisor.
Barbara travelled to Germany alongside her husband from 1960 to 1961 for missionary work with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She became fluent in German; a skill she maintained throughout her life and would proudly display in conversation. She continued her life of service to her community as a member of local clubs, including the Milford Library Club and emergency preparedness organizations.
She will be remembered for her unpredictable wit and penchant for storytelling. Through her wide variety of stories, she could both impart wisdom and stir up laughter. She enjoyed a number of hobbies including genealogy, bird watching, reading, and tending to her rose bushes. Barbara took joy from classic movies and testing her knowledge while watching Jeopardy with a bowl of her favorite ice cream.
Barbara is predeceased by her daughters Terry Ellen Fugal and Sherri Lee Fugal Furce (Bob). She is survived by her sons, Edward Roy Fugal (Patty) of Milford, Jan Peter Fugal (Tabatha) of Burnt Hills, NY, and Kurt Garrett Fugal (Sherry) of Guilford. She is also survived by fifteen grandchildren: Chris Piccoli, Christian and Amber Furce; Danielle DeSanty Bradley (Lukas), Justin and Jennafer Fugal; Tanner Fugal (Amber), Ashley Bradshaw (Justin), Joshua, Cameron, and Liam Fugal; Tyler, Abigail, Nathan, and Lorren Fugal, and by two great-grandchildren: Madilyn and Benjamin Bradley.
Family and friends are invited to visit on Tuesday from 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. at the GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 BRIDGEPORT AVENUE, MILFORD, CT. A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at the Gregory F. Doyle Funeral Home. Interment to follow in King’s Highway Cemetery, Milford.
Concetta Mary Rooney
Concetta Mary Rooney was born on April 1, 1934 and passed away on December 14, 2022 at age 88.
A Memorial Service will take place at a later date.
Charlene Sanner
Charlene (Yassak) Sanner, 66, of Milford, passed away Friday, December 16, 2022, surrounded by her loving husband, children and grandchildren.
Charlene was born and raised in Bridgeport by her parents, Charles and Olga Yassak. She was a member of the Notre Dame High School of Fairfield graduating class of 1974 and a longtime employee at Milford Pediatric Group.
Charlene was an adored daughter, sister, wife, aunt, mother, grandmother, and friend. She will be remembered for her kind and caring nature. She loved vacations to Outer Banks, North Carolina, attending baseball games, dance recitals, and school activities for her 10 grandchildren, and simply having family visit to enjoy good food, share stories and have lots of laughs.
She is survived by her husband of 44 years, Dawson; her children and their spouses, Lisa (Christian) Meagher, Joshua (Darlene), Aaron (Melissa) and Jonathan (Michelle); her grandchildren, Joshua, Julianne, Brooklynn, Austin, Bennett, Lia, Rowan, Madelyn, and Naomi; her sisters, Carol (Dale) Nadeau and Laura (Alex) DelVecchio; seven nieces and nephews; four grandnephews, and one on the way.
Charlene is predeceased by her beloved granddaughter, Alexa Marie.
Services are private at the request of her family.
Priscilla Searles
Priscilla Searles, 83, of Orange, beloved wife of the late James C. Searles, passed away on December 30, 2022. Born on October 18, 1939 in Hartford, CT, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Helen (Kerivan) Burgess.
Priscilla was a writer and contributor to Business New Haven since it was launched in 1993. She began her career as editor of publications for the Armstrong Rubber Co. A onetime staff reporter for the New Haven Journal Courier; she also served as executive director of Fort Nathan Hale Restoration Projects. A director of the New Haven Colony Historical (now the New Haven Museum) for 14 years, Searles headed the NHCHS’s education committee, writing and implementing educational programs, including “Free Men: The Amistad Revolt and the American Anti-Slavery Movement,” distributed to schools across the country. She was an incorporator of the New Haven Crypt Association, the organization responsible for the restoration of the original New Haven Burial Ground, located beneath Center Church on the Green. She was a former member of the board of directors of Domestic Violence Services of Greater New Haven and was a member of the formation committee of the Orange County Fair, for which she served as Arts and Crafts Superintendent. She was also former director of the Orange Historical Society. Priscilla is Town Historian in the Town of Orange and has held that position for many years. She is a writer for the Milford-Orange Times newspaper and had a monthly column featuring historic photos from the town’s past. She was an active member of the Orange Bicentennial Committee and was appointed to the town’s time capsule which will be opened in the year 2072. She thoroughly enjoyed this latest project, which was completed just two weeks before Christmas.
Priscilla is survived by her children, Kevin (Michele) Margenau, and Keith (Paula) Margenau; stepchildren, Susan (Matt) Schmitt, and David Searles; grandchildren, Kyle, Matthew, and Paige Margenau, and Sam and Benjamin Schmitt; and her brother, P. Douglas (Sue) Burgess.
Friends and family may call from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 14, 2022 at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 BROAD ST., MILFORD, CT. A Memorial Service will immediately follow at the funeral home. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Orange Historical Society.
Elizabeth M. (Murphy) Stahl
Elizabeth M Stahl (Betty), passed away peacefully at home in Orange, surrounded by family on December 21, 2022. Born in Derby Connecticut, January 7, 1950, daughter of George H Murphy Jr. and Elizabeth Ann Manion Murphy, She leaves her husband Craig A Stahl, of Orange, survived by her sister Barbara J Stumpo and her husband Paul of Oxford, brother George H Murphy III and his husband James Pincille of Palm Springs CA, a daughter, Jennifer Snow Morgan and her husband Christian of Rock Hill SC., a son Brendan Snow and his wife Katrina of Milford CT, a step-daughter Carrie Foster and her husband John of Wakefield MA., a step-son Christian A Stahl and his wife Aleshia of Bethany, CT. seven Grandchildren and Step-Grandchildren: Sophie and Aiden Morgan, Emelia Snow, Cage and Ashur Foster. Cecilia and Seeley Stahl. Many loving nieces and nephews as well as her former husband Jeffery Snow, Woodstock GA.
Elizabeth graduated from Lauralton Hall Class of 1967, St. Mary’s Hospital School of Nursing, Class of 1971 and Excelsior College. As a Registered Nurse she was Owner/Director of Operations at Progressive Healthcare Services, Largo, FL; Former Director of Clinical Practice at University of Florida, Home Health Division/Shands Home Care, Largo, FL; Manager of clinical practice at Gentiva Home Health, Clearwater, FL; Administrator/ Branch Director at Gentiva Home Health, Trumbull, Hamden and Farmington CT
A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date to be determined. There will be no calling hours; burial will be private at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, Betty and her family requests that charitable donations be made through the Funeral Director, in Betty’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or the Veterans Organization of your choice.
Arrangements by Jenkins King & Malerba Funeral Home, 12 Franklin Street, Ansonia, CT 06401. Phone: 203-735-0036; Web: www.jenkinskingfh.com.
Joan (Fiore) Vargo
On December 16, 2022, Joan (Fiore) Vargo of Orange, CT passed away to join the love of her life, her husband, Andy.
Joan was born on March 28, 1931 in White Plains New York and was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She waited to work until all the children were in school and then worked as a Para in the Milford school system and later at Casanova Candies, followed by their own cleaning business. Joan above all loved her husband and family, game nights, family parties and watching the Uconn girls basketball games with dad.
Joan was predeceased by her husband Andrew,, her parents, Anthony and Margaret Fiore, brother Vincent, sister in laws, Marge, Irene, niece Laura grandson Joshua. She is survived by her sister in law Jean Vargo, six children, Peggy (Tony) Cirillo, Richard (Jean) Vargo, Jeffrey (Grace) Vargo, Janice (Bruce) Varga, Andrew (Paulette) Vargo, Jennifer (Mark) DiLauro and her grandchildren, Jason (Rika) Cirillo, Corey (Patty) Cirillo, Kaitlyn (Joe) Teta, Mark Vargo, Samantha (Mike) Fowler, Lauren (Marco) Palumbo, Amanda (Dan) Zapatka, Ashley Vargo, Derek Varga, Ryan Varga, Kilee (Joe) Richardson, Drew Vargo, Molly Vargo, Emma DiLauro, Jack DiLauro, Olivia DiLauro, great grandchildren, Ryu, Riki, Lyla, Jack, Aidan, Jackson, Ava, Kimberly, Saoirse, Roman, Luca and many nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, December 30, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Infant Church, 450 Racebrook Road, Orange, CT 06477. Interment will be private.
Lottie (Kowalchik) Way
Lottie (Vladymira) Way, age 85, of Milford, beloved wife of the late Harry H. Way, entered peaceful rest on December 30, 2022 at her home.
Lottie was born on March 17, 1937 in Scranton, PA and was the daughter of the late Harry and Anne (Yusko) Kowalchik. She enjoyed working with her husband on their cookie route for many years and later owned Way’s Variety and News for 14 years. She also worked at Gen-El-Mec Associates, Inc. before her retirement.
Lottie is survived by her devoted sister, Judith Kowalchik of Milford and her loving brother, Harry Kowalchik of Arizona, a niece, a nephew, a grand niece and nephew and several cousins. She was predeceased by her twin sons, Kyle and Kirk.
Services will be private.
W. Thurmon Whitley
W. Thurmon Whitley, 81, of Milford, beloved husband of the late Wilma Whitley, passed away on December 9, 2022. Born on October 24, 1941 in DeLand, FL, he was the son of the late John and Britty Lee Whitley.
Thurmon is survived by his son, Andrew Whitley; his sister and brother-in-law Barbara and James Wright; nieces Emily Austin, Katheryn Wright and nephew John Wright; and his cat, Maci.
An In-Person Memorial Service will be celebrated on Saturday, December 17, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. ET at First & Wesley United Methodist Church, 89 Center St., West Haven, CT 06516.
To attend the service virtually, please follow the following Zoom Link.
Or Call-in: 1-646-876-9923 Meeting ID: 147691027#
Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First & Wesley United Methodist Church in West Haven, CT, The Nature Conservancy, or the University of New Haven.
The family is being cared for by the staff at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 BROAD ST., MILFORD, CT.
Harry J. Zinn, Jr.
Harry J. Zinn, Jr. of West Haven, beloved husband of 39 years, to the late Susan (Norkaitis) Zinn, passed away on December 26, 2022.
Harry was born on February 20, 1951 in Milford to the late Harry J. Zinn, Sr. and Mary (Marcavage) Zinn. He was a proud U. S. Marine Corp veteran and served during the Vietnam War. Upon returning from the war, Harry put himself through college and graduated from the University of New Haven. Harry was an accountant and partner for Beers, Hamerman, Cohen & Burger, P.C. in Fairfield.
He leaves behind two loving daughters, Jennifer Thurston (Tom Campbell) and Melanie Zinn and five beautiful granddaughters, Kaitlin, Isabella, Olivia, Abigail and Emma. He also leaves his brother, William Zinn in Florida and several nieces, nephews, in-laws and many dear friends.
Harry, better known as pop to his girls, was the best story teller, board game player, listener, and friend. All his girls always felt loved and cared for. He shared his last 3.5 years with his girlfriend Joanne Zimmer Evans.
Family and friends may call on Friday, December 30, 2022, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 BRIDGEPORT AVENUE, MILFORD. Interment to follow at 11:15 a.m. with Military Honors at Saint Michael’s Cemetery, Stratford.