Avroch, Martin Evans
MARTIN EVANS AVROCH of Orange passed away on October 25, 2020. His warmth, compassion, acumen, wit and killer one-liners will be lovingly remembered. His 90 years were filled with family and scores of lifelong friends. He was predeceased by his wife of 64 years, Janet Avroch, and is survived by his daughter and caregiver Robin, his daughter Abby and son-in-law Howard Ross, and grandchildren Taylor and Skyler. The family wishes to thank Drs. Hugh Carey and Jeremy Nadelmann for their dedication and excellent care. Donations in Marty’s memory may be made to the American Heart Association.
Arrangements are in care of Robert E. Shure & Son Funeral Home, New Haven. To sign an online registry book or to leave a message of condolence, please visit www.shurefuneralhome.com.
Basney, Ronald A.
As a child, Ron was enamored with planes and flying. He took that love of flying and served his country in two wars, first in Korea at the age of 19 in the Air Force as a fighter plane mechanic and secondly in Vietnam, as a Warrant Officer helicopter pilot in the 82nd Airborne. For his service in Vietnam, he was awarded a Purple Heart and Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, among other commendations and awards.
After serving his country, in 1968 Ron moved with his small family from Fort Bragg, NC back to Connecticut and settled in Milford. He was employed at Sikorsky Aircraft in Stratford, CT where he started as a technical writer due to his understanding of helicopter mechanics and his combat experience. Over the next 20 years, he elevated to the position of Logistics Engineer. In this position, he was responsible for managing the delivery of Sikorsky helicopters to many different countries, like China, Jordan and Turkey, just to name a few.
Ron enjoyed a long, well deserved retirement. During this time, he was able to enjoy his 34′ sailboat and sailing with friends and family on Long Island Sound. He had a wonderful green thumb and loved planting flowers around his condo near the beach. He also loved cycling and walking along the shoreline in Milford and especially watching stockcar races. Feeling it was important to help others, he joyfully volunteered for many years at Milford Hospital.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Dolores and his children, Andrea and Ronnie, his brother, Alan (Charlotte), sister-in-law Josephine and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sisters, Joan and Nancy.
There will be no service at this time, but when time permits, the family will have a private memorial to celebrate Ron’s life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Veteran’s Administration or your local VA Hospital.
Blanchard, Linda Mae
Linda Mae Blanchard, 76, of West Haven and formerly of Milford, beloved wife of Joseph Blanchard, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2020. Born on July 11, 1944 in Bridgeport, CT, she was the daughter of the late Roy and Gladys (Burr) Berndtson.
In addition to her loving husband, Joe, Linda is survived by her children, Joseph Blanchard, Jr., Marc (Elke) Blanchard, Eric (Emily) Blanchard, and Carl (Kelly) Blanchard; her grandchildren, Grace, Stella, Maggie, Hannah, Ryder, and Lennon; her brother, Charles Berndtson; and several nieces and nephews.
Family and friends may call on Monday, October 26, 2020 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 N. Broad St., Milford, CT 06460. Social distancing and masks will be required.
A Memorial Service will take place at 10 a.m. on Friday, October 30, 2020 at Grace Baptist Church, 400 Burnt Plains Rd., Milford, CT 06460 (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH). Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Saint Jude children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org.
Charbonneau, Marybeth
Chasse, Mary Louise
Marylou Chasse, of Milford, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2020. Born on June 12, 1948 in Bridgeport, she was the daughter of the late William and Edna Chasse. Marylou loved her family and spending time together at family gatherings. She enjoyed reading, Sudoku, UConn Women’s Basketball, collecting lighthouses and Dickens Village, online shopping, and cheering at her nephews sporting events.
Marylou leaves behind her sisters, Melinda Chasse and Elaine (William) Cooper; nieces, Emily (Hans) Melin and Jennifer (Michael) Illuzzi; nephew, Evan DeMers; and great-nephews and nieces, Clara, Camilla, Lukas, Alexander, and Haley. She was predeceased by her brother, William Chasse.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 11, 2020, at 11 a.m. at Saint Mary Church, 70 Gulf St., Milford (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH). Interment will be private. The family is being compassionately cared for by the staff at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT 06460. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
Clark, Robert
Born September 1, 1930 to the late Charles Adam and Nellie Mills Clark of Bridgeport, Robert was a longtime resident of Milford before moving to North Carolina in 2019. Robert was an avid softball player in the greater Bridgeport industrial leagues as a younger man, and an avid golfer in his later years. He was employed by the Schick Safety Razor company in Milford for 30 years and worked at the Orange Hills Country Club for many years after his retirement from Schick.
Robert served in the United States Navy from 1948 to 1952, with deployments to Panama and with the Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean. He is descended from the Clarks that founded Milford.
Robert was predeceased by Irene Collins Clark, his beloved wife of 63 years and a daughter, Barbara. He is survived by six children: Robert Jr. (Roberta) of Fairfield, Jeffrey (Cindy) of East Granby, Nancy Kealey (Patrick) of North Carolina, Janet Brady (Bryce) of East Granby, Laura Murray (Page) of California, and David of New York. Robert had 12 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Robert is survived by a brother, Thomas of Oxford, and a sister, Virginia Oates of Stratford. He was predeceased by his siblings Charles, Russell, Evelyn, William, Margaret, Mildred, Jessie, Anne, Dudley, Kenneth, Richard, and Emma.
A memorial service will be held in the Spring. Burial is private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy.
D’Agostino, Elizabeth Aloysius Miskowicz
Elizabeth Aloysius Miskowicz D’Agostino, age 72 of Milford, died November 3, 2020 at the St. Raphael Campus of Yale New Haven Health. Born in Derby on May 19, 1948, she was the daughter of the late Stanley Paul and Elizabeth Aloysius Opuszynski Miskowicz. Mrs. D’Agostino was raised in Derby and worked as a residential health aide for many years, until the time of her retirement. She was devoted to her Catholic Faith, the Blessed Mother and was a member of the Mother Mary Immaculate Society. Mrs. D’Agostino enjoyed arts & crafts, crossword puzzles and especially loved the holiday season. She will be long remembered for her beautiful smile, contagious laugh and for her special love for her children and grandchildren. She is survived by her children, Cynthia D’Agostino of Waterbury, Deborah (Dennis Beam) D’Agostino of Waterbury, Annmarie (Paul Tanimanico) D’Agostino of West Haven, Stephanie (Vaibhav) Miskowicz-Lhila of New Haven, Jennifer (Shareef Majeed) Miskowicz of Milford, Daniel Miskowicz of New Haven and Roxanne (Jonathan Pacheco) Bleau of New Haven; 9 cherished grandchildren, and 4 cherished great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by a brother, Stanley Miskowicz and 2 grandchildren. A graveside funeral service will take place on Friday, November 6, 2020, at 11:00 AM in Pine Grove Cemetery, Ansonia. The Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia is in care of arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.
DeCrescenzo, Raymond Vincent
Raymond loved and adored his wife and family, most of all his grandchildren. He was lovingly known as “Gramps”, “Pops” and “Red”, by his children, grandchildren and friends. Raymond greatly enjoyed cooking holiday meals, especially Christmas Eve Seven Fishes Dinner. He spent time outdoors and working in his garden, going to the beach, fishing and bowling. Raymond proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1963 and received the Good Conduct Medal. He was a member of Sons of Italy in Derby, CT and retired from the City of Milford.
In addition to his wife, Filomena, Raymond is survived by his daughters, Luisa Francis and Olimpia DeCrescenzo; grandchildren, Gregory R. Francis, Jr., Jenny M. Rutkowski and Vincent R. DeCrescenzo; brother, Paul (Mary) DeCrescenzo; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, Vincent DeCrescenzo. Raymond’s family takes comfort in knowing that he is reunited with his son, Vinny.
Family and friends may call on Wednesday, November 11, 2020 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 N. Broad St., Milford, CT. Social distancing and masks will be required. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, November 12, 2020 at 10 a.m. at St. Ann Church, (St. Raphael Parish), 501 Naugatuck Ave., Milford, CT (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH). Burial with Military Honors will follow at St. Mary Cemetery, Buckingham Ave., Milford, CT. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
Drotar, Stephen J.
Stephen J. Drotar, 82, of Milford, formerly of Orange, beloved husband of Shelia Drotar, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2020. Stephen was born in Bridgeport, CT on January 17, 1938 to the late Stephen and Helen Kuchan Drotar.
Stephen was a passionate Duck Pin Bowler who is featured in their Connecticut Hall of Fame. He was an avid Yankee and UCONN basketball fan and loved playing Texas Hold’em at the casino. Stephen worked as a concrete mixer driver for Beard Concrete before owning his own trucking business for many years.
In addition to his wife, Shelia, Stephen leaves behind his son, Michael Drotar and his wife Marie of Branford and granddaughter, Samantha Drotar of New Britain. Stephen was predeceased by his son, Stephen M. Drotar. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Milford Hospital ICU for their warm and compassionate care.
Friends and family are invited to call on Monday, November 2, 2020 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. A Funeral Service will follow at 11 a.m. at St. Peter Church, 71 River St., Milford, CT. Interment will take place at Orange Center Cemetery, Orange Center Rd., Orange, CT. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
Hogan, Patrick
Patrick Michael Hogan, 80, of Orange, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2020. Born on January 30, 1940 in Utica, NY, he was the son of the late James F. Hogan, Sr. and Amy Hogan.
Patrick was a graduate of Amity High School and received his bachelor degree from the University of New Haven. He went on to work as Journeyman Printer for the New Haven Register for many years.
Patrick is survived by his siblings, Mary Ellen Hogan Betlinski of Fort Richy, FL, James F. Hogan of Orange, and Richard Hogan of Snohomish, WA; nieces and nephews, Paula (Christopher) Garvey, of Virginia, Phillip Hogan, of Orange, and Christopher, Scott, and Arielle (Matt) Hogan, all of Snohomish, WA; and great-niece and nephew, Catherine and Alexander Garvey, of Virginia.
Services will be private at this time. The family is being compassionately cared for by the staff at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
Jaser, Linda
A Memorial Service will be celebrated at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the CT Humane Society. To share a memory and to view the full obituary, please go to www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.
Leu, Rosemary Ann
Rosemary graduated from Marquette University with a degree in Dental Hygiene, and practiced as a dental hygienist in Milwaukee. Following her marriage, she and Jim moved to Orange, Connecticut. Rosemary was an active member of Race Brook Country Club for over 40 years, and was a member of Orange Congregational Church.
Rosemary approached life’s challenges and projects with a strong determination and tenacity. She loved to play bridge with her friends and enjoyed blackjack. Rosemary loved her grandchildren deeply and enjoyed regaling them with life lessons.
She is predeceased by her beloved husband of over 40 years, James C. Leu. She is survived by her children: Laurie Markham (Tom) of Virginia Beach, VA and Jay Leu (Tracy) of Sudbury, MA; her grandchildren: Kristen of Atlanta, GA, Kathryn of Charlotte, NC, Michael of Quincy, MA, Megan of Sudbury, MA ; and her four great-grandchildren.
Donations in Rosemary Leu’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090 or alz.org
A celebration of life has been postponed due to the pandemic.
Lipp, Eric
Eric had worked for many years as a printer until his retirement. He had a true passion for illustration, sketching, and spending his days outside planting and landscaping around his home not to mention spending hours on the beach.
Eric is the son of Claudette (Heslin) Lipp and the late Joseph Lipp. He is survived by his brothers and sisters, Steven (Maureen) Lipp, Mathew Lipp, Karen (Jesus) Solabarríetta, Veronica Lipp, and Dietrich (Clifford Mascia) Lipp; and uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.
Friends and family may call from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 14, 2020 at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT 06460. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org or a charity of one’s choice. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
MacAllister Jr., Thomas C.
Friends and family may call on Monday, November 16th from 5:00 pm – 7:00 p.m. in THE GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 Bridgport Avenue, Milford. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, November 17th at 12:00 p.m. in Oak Lawn Cemetery, 1530 Bronson Road, Fairfield. As Tom had been both cat and dog “dad” and animal lover. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the CT Humane Society. To share a memory, please visit,
www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.
Madarang, Florence
Florence “Lovey” Madarang, 76, of Milford, CT, passed away on November 6, 2020 at CT Hospice in Branford. She was born to parents Otto and Madeline Hilgetag on November 2, 1944 in East New York, NY.
Florence worked as a Certified Nurse’s Assistant for over 20 years. She retired from Golden Hill in Milford. Florence was a kind, loving, dedicated C.N.A., often seen going the extra mile for her residents and co-workers. Many, not just her children, called her mom. Florence had a heart for people and loved to comfort others with a warm embrace and a word of encouragement. She had a love for God, which she shared with all.
Florence met Richard J. Madarang in 1967. They were married on June 14, 1969 in Brooklyn, NY. Together they raised four children: Regina (John) Gibbs, Madeline Weaver, Antoinette Langston, and Richard Madarang, Jr.
Florence is survived by her husband, four children, and ten grandchildren: Jenna, Sarai, Brian, Matthew, James, Zachary, Rachel, Makayla, Jacob, and Tori; as well as two great grandchildren: Isaiah and Molly.
Friends and family are invited to call on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT 06405, or the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
Mapes, JoAnn Kelly
Matosko, Joan J.
Joan J. Matosko, 90, of Milford, beloved wife of the late Robert J. Matosko, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2020. Born on June 22, 1930 in Brooklyn, NY, she was the daughter of the late Edward Wagner and Edna Hennigan. Joan volunteered for many years as tutor of English as a Second Language and an avid storyteller of her own writings in the Stratford School system. Joan is survived by her three children, Diane Walsh Piatak and her husband, Michael, Bruce Walsh and his wife, Cindy O’Connor Walsh and Paul Matosko, all of Stratford; grandchildren, Michael Piatak and his wife, Jaclyn Schede Piatak and Emily Piatak of North Carolina, Briana, Paul and Balli Matosko, all of Milford and one great-grandchild, Natalie Piatak of North Carolina. She had been predeceased by her son, Kevin Walsh and her brother, Andrew Wagner.
There will be no calling hours and interment will be private. The family is being compassionately cared for by Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Stratford Animal Rescue Society, Beacon Point Road, Stratford 06614.To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
Arthur H. McDowell, 93, of Milford, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2020. Arthur is survived by his loving wife Ann McDowell and their six children, Margaret McDowell Viglione (Edward), David Gray (Alice), Daniel Gray (Tricia), Linda Nystrom, Dennis Gray (Cheryl) and Korri Verderame as well as 28 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson. Arthur was a WWII veteran, who served in the United States Army, was employed as a laborer with U.S. Motors, Hunt-Pierce Corporation, and Milford Crane Machine Company, for many years and also an avid Boston Red Sox fan. Arthur, who enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, was a happy, wonderful man, who enjoyed talking to anyone about anything. He had a beautiful smile and a mischievous twinkle in his eye and could always be counted on for the most interesting and entertaining stories. Arthur, born in Pepperell, MA, the second of seven sons, was predeceased by his parents, Milton and Alice (Shepard) McDowell, brothers, Norman, John and Daniel. He is survived by brothers Joseph, Herman and Robert (Lillian) and many nieces & nephews. One of Arthur’s greatest joys in life was time spent with his family. He loved his family immensely. A Graveside Military Service will be held at King’s Highway Cemetery, Milford on Wednesday, Nov. 4th at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you consider making a donation to the Veterans Memorial Hospital, West Haven. Arrangements are in care of with the GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, MILFORD. To share a memory, please go towww.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.
Donald Joseph McGrath, age 82, of Bridgeport, beloved husband of the late Mary Van Sise McGrath for 42 years, passed away on Monday, November 2nd 2020. Donald was born in Bridgeport on February 22, 1938 to the late Terrence and Margaret Kiely McGrath. He was a proud US Navy veteran and after serving in the Military was an Aviation Structural Mechanic at Sikorsky Aircraft eventually working his way up into engineering. Donald was also a pilot and loved going to airshows and really enjoyed making things with his hands for friends and family. He was known for his elaborate bolo ties that he hand forged and sculpted into beautiful art. For fun, Don also made sheet metal creations like tools for the kitchen and décor for your home. Donald was also a brilliant artist who made many magnificent drawings and artwork throughout his life. His strong Irish heritage shined down through his son and grandchildren. One of his favorite family traditions was to have a green beer and a corn beef & cabbage dinner at 7 Seas then watch the Milford St Patrick’s Day Parade. He hasn’t missed a parade until recent years with his decline in health. Donald enjoyed the simple life, but what he enjoyed more than anything was spending time with his wonderful wife Mary! The two of them were inseparable! They did everything together. Don and Mary are now reunited together again with their daughter Mary Jessica McGrath in Heaven. Although Donald is not here anymore, his gentle spirit and wisdom he shared are still here and will live on for years to come as he touched so many people in so many ways. Donald will be deeply missed by his friends and family. Survivors include his son, Michael McGrath (Natalie) of Milford, three grandchildren, Jeremy, Dawson and Teigen McGrath and several nieces and nephews. Donald was predeceased by his sister, Janice McGrath. Friends and family are invited to attend a graveside service on Saturday, November 7th at 10:00 a.m. in Saint Michael Cemetery, 2205 Stratford Avenue, Stratford. THE GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME is in charge of arrangements. Friends are asked to wear masks when in the cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. To leave an online condolence, please visit, www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.
Joan Molloy Miller, 90, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2020. Born in Woodmont, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Elene Molloy. Her sisters Sally and Marjorie predeceased her. She has three children—Harold E., Christopher J., and Margot E. Miller—and grandchildren Sierra and Silas Miller and Lucia C. Racine.Mullins, Paul Swift
December 18, 1953–November 3, 2020 (age 66)
Perry, Lawrence M.
In addition to his devoted wife, he leaves his loving son, Alex J. Perry of Milford and his brother, Art E. Perry, Jr and his wife, Linda of Akron, OH and several nieces and nephews. His son, Michael L. Perry and his twin brother, John K. Perry predeceased him.
A gathering of Family and Friends will be held on Friday, November 6th from 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. with a Funeral Service at 6:00 p.m. in THE GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford. Social Distance protocols will be in place. Interment will be private. To share a memory, please go to www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.
Perruccio, Clementina
Clementina was the owner of Sid’s Package Store in West Haven for many years. After her retirement, she spent her time volunteering at Milford Hospital, the Long Wharf Theater and the Shubert Theater. She also enjoyed playing Badminton, Golf and traveling with her close friends.
Clementina is survived by her daughters, Gail (Frank) Berardesca, Sharon (Robert) Saley; and her grandchildren, Paul Berardesca, Daniel, Robert (Jenna), and Virginia Saley and Rebecca and Andrew Smith; her great grandson, Connor Louis Saley; and her son-in-law, Michael Smith. In addition to her parents and husband, Clementina was predeceased by her daughter, Lynn Perruccio Smith and her brother, Sidney Tannoia, Jr.
All services will be private at this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Susan G. Koman Breast Cancer Foundation at ww5.komen.org. The family is being compassionately cared for by the staff at Cody-White Funeral Home 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
Provencher, Kathleen P.
After graduation from Harding High School, Kay worked various jobs in Bridgeport. After WWII, she met her husband, Raymond, and they were married in 1950. Kay began a career in banking, working as a customer service representative for Connecticut National Bank, primarily in Fairfield. She was an active parishioner at Saint Ann Church in Black Rock. Upon her retirement, Kay moved to Milford where she spent the last 35 years of her life. She was a volunteer at Milford Hospital until the age of 90 and volunteered as a school crossing guard with the Milford Police Department. Kay was a huge fan of Frank Sinatra, who she saw perform live at the New Haven Coliseum and she was known to belt out the song New York, New York without any provocation. Always one to be laughing and smiling, or lend an ear, she will be missed by all who knew her.
Kay is survived by her son, David R. Provencher and his wife, Nancy; her grandchildren, Bryan D. Provencher, and Katie Provencher Morrisroe and her husband, Patrick; and by her great-grandson, Brian Austin Morrisroe. In addition to her husband, Raymond, Kay was predeceased by her siblings, William Luciano, Michael Luciano, and Maryann Petkevich.
Family and friends may call on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 N. Broad St., Milford, CT 06460. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice. Social distancing and masks will be required. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
Purcell, Jr., Walter R.
Walter was born in Bridgeport, CT on October 16, 1929, son of the late Anne and Walter R. Purcell Sr. A graduate of both Fairfield Prep and Fairfield University, he served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict, and had a long career in the helicopter supply industry. He and his wife of 67 years, June Reynolds Purcell currently resided in Milford, CT. They previously lived in Orange for many years.
Walter’s greatest love and joy was his family and he will be greatly missed by his children, Charlene and Owen Beers, Monica Purcell and Patrick Fitzgerald, Jeffrey and Susan Purcell, and Melissa and Pasquale Chieffalo. He was predeceased by his son Dale R. Purcell. He was the beloved brother and best friend to Harold F. and Joan Purcell. Walter was blessed with eighteen wonderful grandchildren, Brendan, Nadine, Tyler, Vanessa, Kali, Lindsay, Ashley, Curtis, Austin, Lydia, Jeffrey, Jennifer, Samantha, Allana, Taylor, Corey, Casey, and Gregory, and his eighteen precious great-grandchildren. He enjoyed being an uncle to his niece and nephews and their families.
Walter was an accomplished musician, photographer, mechanic, carpenter, electrician, plumber, mason, inventor and knowledgeable teacher of life skills. He was able to fix anything that was broken, including hearts. Walter was an amazing man who was gentle, generous, kind and loved by all. We will cherish our many happy memories with him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ the Redeemer Church, 325 Oronoque Rd., Milford, CT. Masks required. Contributions in Walter’s name may be made to Connecticut Hospice or The Alzheimer’s Association. The family is being compassionately cared for by the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
Reynolds, Jean P.
Visitation will take place on Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the West Haven Funeral Home. A procession will leave the funeral home at 9:30 a.m. on Friday. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Infant Church at 10 o’clock. Interment will follow at Mt. St. Peter’s Cemetery. Face covering and social distancing guidelines must be observed. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Jean’s name to the American Heart Association or the Orange Senior Center, 525 Orange Center Road, Orange, CT 06477.
To read Jean’s complete obituary, please visit our website www.westhavenfuneral.com.
Rubenstein, Deborah S.
She is survived by her husband, Chip Rubenstein, and her beloved nephew, John Black, his wife Lee Morgan and their children Dan and Eva. Deb was also the loving A.D. (Aunt Deb) to Sheridan, Joe and Justin Black. She is also survived by a brother and sister. Her devoted German Shepherds will also miss her presence.
All Services were private and at the convenience of the family. In the spirit of Deb’s generosity, please consider donating to; The Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation, 103 Vision Way, Bloomfield, CT 06002 or to WHY Hunger att. Jen Chapin, 505 Eight Ave. #2100, New York, New York 10018. Arrangements entrusted to the Parente-Lauro Funeral Home, 559 Washington Ave., Bridgeport. To sign an online guest book or to send private condolences, please visit www.parentelauro.com.
Shandrowski, Theodore
He was born on April 2, 1939 in Bridgeport and was the son of the late Theodore and Anna (Brezina) Shandrowski. Mr. Shandrowski was a security guard for Remington Products in Bridgeport for many years before his retirement.
He is survived by his daughter, Teresa Shandrowski of Wisconsin, two grandchildren, Benjamin and Cierra, five great-grandchildren, his brother, Paul Shandrowski of Townsend, MA and several nieces and nephews. His son, David Shandrowski and his sisters, Susan Dunn and Dolores Schroeder predeceased him.
Family and friends may call on Friday, November 6th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at THE GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 BRIDGEPORT AVENUE, MILFORD. Social Distance protocols will be in place. Funeral Service will be private. Memorial Contributions may be made in his memory to the VA Medical Center of West Haven. To share a memory, please go to www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.
Shimchick, Louise R.
Louise was born in Casasola, a tiny mountain town in Northern Italy. She immigrated to the United States in the winter of 1940 with her mother Albina and brother Frank Rosa. They joined her father Carlo who had come earlier to make preparations for the family’s arrival.
Louise grew up in Greenwich and quickly learned English. She was an excellent student and pianist. After graduation Louise pursued her dream of becoming a teacher at Connecticut Teacher’s College in New Britain where she met Walter, also a future teacher. She brought Cynthia into the world near the end of her senior year, Debra eighteen months later while living in New Haven, and David in Milford in 1960.
Louise taught for 30 years at the elementary level in the Milford Public Schools. Over her career she taught several different grades in different schools across the district, but the majority of years were spent teaching sixth graders at Central Grammar School in the center of town. Louise retired in 1992.
During retirement Louise enjoyed caring for her family, cooking and baking, cleaning and organizing her home, and doing some traveling. She especially enjoyed the yearly two-week boating pilgrimage to Block Island with husband Walt. Louise was also very active at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church in New Haven where she served a term as financial secretary and on the Parish Council. Louise was involved in many other facets of church life through her membership in the Ladies’ Auxiliary and Altar Guild. At the 100th anniversary of Holy Transfiguration in 2015 Louise and Walter received a gramata for their loving and dedicated service to the church.
A funeral service will take place at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church on Tuesday, November 3rd at 10 a.m. followed by burial at King’s Highway Cemetery alongside her beloved daughter Debra. There will be no calling hours due to the pandemic and attendance at the funeral service will be limited to immediate family and close friends. BEECHER & BENNETT FUNERAL HOME, 2300 Whitney Avenue, Hamden is in care of arrangements. To send condolences to Louise’s family, please see www.beecherandbennett.com.
Smith, Catherine Elizabeth
Catherine Elizabeth Smith, age 85, a life-long resident of Milford and beloved wife of the late Stewart Smith, died on Tuesday, October 27th at her home and surrounded by family. Catherine was born in Milford on May 23, 1935 to the late Wilbur and Lois Thomas Miller.
She was a Registered Nurse and was also one of the founders of Grace Baptist Church. Survivors include her daughter Deborah Lynette Smith and her husband Santiago Contreras of Milford, three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
Catherine is predeceased by her son, Donald Smith. Friends and family are invited to attend a graveside service on Monday, November 2nd at 11:00 am in Milford Cemetery, Milford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Humane Society.
THE GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME is in care of arrangements. To share a memory, please visit, www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.
Tellier, Robert
Bobby grew up in West Haven where he lived for most of his life until he met Lynda and moved to Milford with her and Neil. He worked for the State of CT DOSR for over 25 years, until retirement. Prior to that, Bobby owned DJ’s bar in West Haven. He loved tending bar and always worked part-time as a bartender, most recently at Brian’s Place and Johnnys Grill. Bobby was a true and loyal friend and loved his family fiercely; with a zestful spirit, he enjoyed traveling both with friends and family. He loved going to Yankees spring training, Myrtle Beach, his 2nd home in Estero, FL, enjoying cruises and visiting wineries in Napa Valley and CT, in search for the perfect red Zinfandel. His greatest love, besides Lynda, was horseracing, and Saratoga was where he wanted to be every summer. He spent opening day at the races for over 30 years. His suitcase was always packed and ready to go anywhere, anytime.
He is survived by his wife Lynda Smith Tellier; stepson, Neil Smith; sisters, Patrice Lalor and Lesley Rafter; nephews, Dustin Cline (Erica), Bromley (Angelina) Tellier, Daniel Lalor; niece Elizabeth Lalor; grand nieces and nephews, Charlotte, Bromley Jr., Victoria, Elizabeth and Ryan; his beloved cat BB; and his special “granddaughter” Juliette. He was predeceased by his parents and brother, Tom Tellier.
The family would like to extend a special “Thank you” to the doctors and nurses at Bridgeport Hospital MICU who took care of Bobby at the end of his illness.
Friends and family may call from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, October 31, 2020 at Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad Street, Milford, CT 06460. Masks will be required and social distancing will be enforced. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Thoracic Oncology Program Fund at Yale New Haven in Bob’s name at www.givetoynhh.org. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.
Whittaker, Paul G.
Friends and family are invited to attend a graveside service on Friday, November 6th at 11:00 a.m. in The Orange Center Cemetery. Visitors are asked to wear masks and practice social distancing when in the cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Closer to Free Fund or to CT Hospice in Branford. THE GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME is in care of arrangements. To leave an online condolence, please visit,
www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.
Wolliak, Sophie (Sonia)
Sophie (Sonia) Wolliak, aged 89, of Orange passed away on October 27, 2020, at Yale New Haven Hospital, St. Raphael’s branch. She was predeceased by her sister Eugenia Wolliak and her parents, William and Melania Wolliak. Sonia was born in Bridgeport on November 27, 1930. She graduated from Harding High School in Bridgeport and from Barnard College in NYC in 1953 with a BA degree in Fine Arts. Sonia was very devoted to her family and had many interests including the fine arts, cats, gardening, and nature. A graveside service will be held on Saturday at 11:00 in Lakeview Cemetery, 885 Boston Ave., Bridgeport. The Edward F. Adzima Funeral Home, 253 Elizabeth St. are entrusted with the arrangements.