Obituaries From The Nov. 1, 2018 Issue

Avgerinos, Anastasia

Anastasia Avgerinos entered into rest October 12, 2018. She was born January 7, 1929 to Frank and Mary Melnikoff in New Haven Connecticut. While at Hillhouse High School, she met who became her husband of 58 years, George, while he was a student at Yale University. They were married and she began her studies at Kings College, but chose to focus on her family and their wellbeing and success first. While her children were very young she worked part time as an overseas operator for the telephone company and later at the University of New Haven in purchasing administration as well as assistant to the director of international undergraduate admissions. She is survived by her sister Natalie Kruchok, her brother Boris Melnikoff, and sadly recently predeceased by her sister Tamara Foryan. She leaves her son Theodore and his wife Frances Avgerinos, her daughter Penelope and her husband Victor Mitchell,as well as five grandchildren and five great grandchildren. She was a lifelong and third generation parishoner of Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church and had a great love for her faith, and her church family. She was active in the Ladies Auxiliary and as a church school teacher, and loved the choir, which her mother started at the founding of the church. She was also a member of the Orange Connecticut American Legion Post.

Calling hours are Thursday October 18 from 4-8 at Holy Transfiguration Church 285 Alden Avenue, New Haven, CT. Funeral service is Friday at 2:00 with interment at Orange Center Cemetery, Orange Connecticut, the town where she lived for over 50 years. To sign the online guestbook please visit hawleylincolnmemorial.com.

Blevins, Marshall B.

Marshall B. Blevins, age 96, of Milford passed away on Monday, October 8, 2018 in Masonicare in Wallingford. Born on December 9, 1921 to the late David and Edith Burnham Blevins in New Haven, he proudly served in the US Army during WWII and was a member of American Legion Post #196 in Devon. Before retiring, he was a self-employed appliance repairman. Mr. Blevins is survived by his devoted son John Blevins of Wallingford and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he is predeceased by his wife Barbara Fynes Blevins and sisters Elsie Jean Luppi and Laura Berube. A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, October 17, 2018 in Milford Cemetery at 2 p.m. Donations may be made in his name to the American Heart Assoc., 5 Brookside Dr., Wallingford, CT 06492.

Briggs, Richard E.

Richard E. Briggs, 81, of Milford, beloved husband of Susan Dever Briggs, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2018. Richard was born on October 10, 1937 in Bridgeport, CT to the late Margaret Neeley and William Briggs, Sr.

Rich attended Milford schools and went on to graduate from SCSU attaining a Masters Degree. He was a gifted athlete in high school, where he played football, basketball and ran track & field. He went on to play quarterback in college for the Southern Connecticut Owls.
Rich was an educator and coach in the Milford school system for 34 years. He taught science and coached track & field and cross-country at Foran High School. He also officiated high school football and girls’ basketball throughout his career.

He was a member of the Fairfield County Football Officials Association and the Milford Tennis Club. He was an avid skier and tennis player, captaining teams in the USTA adult tennis league. Rich will be greatly missed by his family, friends and his many former students and athletes.

In addition to his wife, Susan, Rich is survived by his children, Robert (Laura) Briggs and Patti (Brian) Droney; his grandchildren, Eric and Meghan Briggs, and Keira and Kyle Droney; his sister, Dorothy Crowley; and many nieces and nephews. Rich was predeceased by his brothers, William Briggs, Jr. and Donald Briggs.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 26, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Agnes Church (Precious Blood Parish), 400 Merwin Avenue, Milford, CT (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH). Interment will be private. Family and friends are invited to call on Thursday, October 25, 2018 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. Memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.

DeFeo, John E.

John E. DeFeo, 59, of Kinnelon, passed away on October 22, 2018.

John was born and raised in Orange, Connecticut, the son of Robert and Judith DeFeo. John then studied for his law degree while living in New York City, where he met his wife, Margaret and later settled in Kinnelon, New Jersey, where they lived since 2001. John was a lifelong goofball and loved being the life of the party. Whether joking with old friends, embellishing long stories with new, or telling the same jokes to his family, he could always be counted on to make you laugh.

John also had a lifelong passion for politics. He studied political science in undergrad at Fordham University, attending national conventions, and was later involved in local politics at various times in his life. Later in life he ended up spending most evenings catching up on the day’s events, and could often be found debating good-naturedly with friends and family.

He was also an avid traveller, and loved exploring new places, visiting all 50 states over the course of his life. He also loved sharing this passion with his family, planning trips all over the U.S. as well as to visit his wife’s family in Ireland most summers.

John is survived by his devoted family, wife, Margaret and children, Ellen, Paul and Tim; his parents, Robert and Judith DeFeo; his siblings, Robert DeFeo (Dawn), Dave DeFeo, Sue Simone, Mark DeFeo (Aileen) and Steve DeFeo (Pam); his mother in-law, Susan Finnerty; his nieces and nephews, Kevin and Jessica Simone, Brian, Sarah and Daniel DeFeo, Christopher and Robert DeFeo, Will DeFeo, Aoife, Anna, Hugh, and Emily Broderick, Mark, Andrew, and Lucy Finnerty, Catherine and Patrick Finnerty, Hannah and Rosie O’Brien; and his brothers and sisters in-law, Patricia (Tony) Broderick, Enda (Mary) Finnerty, Cormac (Rachael) Finnerty, Susan (J.P.) O’Brien. John was predeceased by his father in-law, Patrick Finnerty and brother-in-law Sandy Simone.

Friends and family may visit on Thursday, October 25 from 2-6pm at Our Lady of the Magnificat RC Church, Kinnelon. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 am on Friday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory can be made to the American Heart Association, PO Box 417005, Boston, MA 02241-7005.

Fulton, Randall J.

Randall J. (Randy) Fulton, 53, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 14th after a long and courageous struggle with cancer. Those who knew him were astounded (yet unsurprised) by his optimism and relentless drive in dealing with his illness.

Randy is survived by his loving wife, Catherine; his parents, Jane and Jim Fulton, and his sisters, Kimberley Eggers and Kristen Fulton-Wright; and an extended family of aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Randy graduated from Trumbull High School in 1983, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, where he also met the love of his life, Catherine.

A lifelong Red Sox and Patriots fan, Randy loved to banter about his teams’ storied Boston-New York rivalries. He also enjoyed boating on Candlewood Lake, golfing with family and friends, and working on landscaping projects around the home he and Cathy shared with their beloved dogs.

Randy will be deeply missed by his family – his kindness, generosity, devotion, character and passion for life will inspire us forever.

A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, October 27, 2018 at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Danbury, 24 Clapboard Ridge Road, Danbury, CT at 11:00 a.m. Friends, colleagues and others who knew Randy are invited to join his family in remembering and honoring him. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Randy’s memory to the American Cancer Society or your local animal shelter.

Geigle, Kenneth

Kenneth H. Geigle, 73, of Wallingford, died Tuesday, October 2, 2018 at his home. He was the beloved husband of Joan (Yara) Geigle of 50 years.

He was born September 23, 1945, and was raised by Ann and Roger Minor to whom he was forever deeply indebted. He earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from Southern CT State University, his Professional Diploma from the University of Bridgeport, and his Ph.D. from Fordham University. He was a teacher at Spencer School in Middletown and then went on to become Principal at F.M. Kearns School in Granby, Helen Street School in Hamden and lastly at Turkey Hill School in Orange. He loved to travel and had visited Europe, New Zealand, Israel and Egypt. He went to London and New York City many times. Ken was a fan of the N.Y. Jets and the N.Y. Yankees. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Eric Geigle, M.D., and Tamika Brierley, M.D.; his adored granddaughter, Lena Geigle; and his brother-in-laws, Thomas and Philip Yara.Funeral service and interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, gifts in his memory may be sent to the North Shore Animal League, www.animalleague.org. Arrangements are under the direction of The Wallingford Funeral Home, 809 N. Main St. Ext. www.wallingfordfh.com.

Hunt, William

Dr. William Russell Hunt, age 77, went home to his Heavenly Father on October 17, 2018 in the comfort of his home, with his family by his side, after a long illness. He was the beloved husband of Elizabeth A. Hunt for 27 years. Dr. Hunt was born in Evansville, Indiana on July 29, 1941, son of the late Harold and Margaret Hunt. Shortly after birth, Dr. Hunt moved to Montana, growing up in Poplar and Wolf Point.

Family will receive friends on Thursday, October 25, 2018 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, October 26, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Infant Church, 450 Racebrook Rd., Orange, CT. Interment will follow at the Orange Center Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter, 2911 Dixwell Ave., Suite 205, Hamden, CT 06518. For directions and online memorial see www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.

Kloeppner, Leon J. Jr.

Leon John Kloeppner Jr., age 72, of Milford passed away in Yale New Haven Hospital on October 23, 2018. He was born on September 27, 1946 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire to the late Leon J. and Madeline Paolina Kloeppner. Mr. Kloeppner proudly served in the US Air National Guard for 25 years. Before retiring, he was employed as a defense contract manager for AVCO. A devoted husband, father and grandfather and an avid bowler, he is survived by his dedicated wife Phyllis Guerriero Kloeppner, sons Leon Kloeppner and his wife Donna of Ansonia and Michael Kloeppner of North Carolina, grandson Leon Kloeppner, sisters Rose Nelson of East Haven and Susan Perrone of Wallingford and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother-in-law Bobby Nelson. Calling hours are Sunday, October 28, 2018 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Home, 135 N. Broad St., Milford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, October 29th at 10:30 a.m. in St. Mary’s Church, Gulf St., Milford. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Milford. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Heart Association. To leave condolences or for directions, please visit our website at www.georgejsmithandson.com.

Kruger, Robert

Robert Kruger, age 73, of Milford passed away on October 12, 2018 in St. Joseph’s Manor in Trumbull. He was born on August 18, 1945 in Bridgeport to the late George and Louise Hembling Kruger. Before retiring, he was employed as a mechanical engineer for Remington Arms and Bridgeport Hospital. He is survived by his devoted wife Gale Babey Kruger. All funeral services will be held at a later date and will be published at that time.

LaFontaine, Bernice C.

Bernice (Canfield) La Fontaine, longtime resident of Bridgeport, Milford, and the Masonic Home in Wallingford, entered into eternal rest on October 23, 2018. She was 92 years old.
Born February 3, 1926 to Burton G. and Anna Canfield, she was a 1943 graduate of Warren Harding High School in Bridgeport. She met her husband, Robert, while he was serving in the U.S.C.G. during WWII.

While she held a few jobs in the early years of her marriage, she spent the most time working for D.M Read’s, Jordan Marsh, and Macy’s Department stores in the junior’s department. She was an active member of the St. John’s Episcopal Church in Bridgeport and St. Andrew’s Church in Milford. She was a past Mother Advisor to Bridgeport #7 I.O.R.G, Past Worthy Matron of Orient Chapter #1/Azelia #2, O.E.S, and traveled the state as a grand officer for the organization for many years.

Bernice enjoyed coffee, talking on the phone for hours to her friends and family, listening to the radio, and loved her dogs Mindy and Maggie.

Bernice is pre-deceased by her devoted husband Robert, her brothers Raymond (Winifred) and Burton, and sons-in-law Robert Frazier and Richard Hooten. Bernice is survived by her daughters Cheryl Frazier and Janet Johnson, her grandchildren Lori Segal (Lou), Chris Mast (Karen), Scott De Cesare, David Mast, and Bryan Hooten. She is also survived by a great-grandson, Giovanni, and two nieces and a nephew.

A funeral service will be held Monday, October 29, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. in the Spear Miller Funeral Home, 39 South Benson Road, Fairfield. Interment will follow in Mountain Grove Cemetery, Bridgeport. Friends may greet the family Sunday from 2-6 p.m. in the funeral home.

Charitable contributions can be made in lieu of flowers to The Shriner’s Hospitals for Children, donorschoose.org, or any favorite charity. The family wishes to express the sincere gratitude to the medical staff of Wooster 2 at the Masonic Home and Hospital for the compassionate care provided to Bernice during her stay. For information or to offer an online condolence please visit www.SpearMillerFuneralHome.com.

Lucia, M.D., Walter M.

Dr. Walter Lucia, 84, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on October 18, 2018. He was born in Fumone, Italy on September 4, 1934 to Anthony Gia Lucia and Armida Lucia. He came to the United States at the age of nine and proceeded to graduate from St. Anthony’s School New Haven, Notre Dame High School West Haven, Fairfield University and the University of Bologna Medical School.

Dr. Lucia did his residency at St. Raphael’s Hospital and then was commissioned into the Navy as a Lieutenant. Upon discharge from the Navy, Dr. Lucia completed a fellowship in cardiology at the University of Virginia. He then came to the Bridgeport area and practiced invasive cardiology for the next 35 years, giving the best medical care to many and saving many lives.

Dr. Lucia’s favorite time was having a house full of people enjoying good food and each other. He was always especially happy when he was around his grandchildren. He was a member of the American Medical Society, American College of Physicians and College of International Angiogram. He was also a member of the VFW and American Legion.

Dr. Lucia leaves behind his wife, Patricia Cronan Lucia; his son, WalterJohn (Reneé) Lucia; his daughters, Rita (David) Supernaw, Elisa (James) O’Connor and Laura (Christopher) Church; his five beloved grandchildren, Matthew Carralero, twins Roderick Graham and Nella Teresa Church and Frankie BellaRose and Santino WalterJohn Lucia. He also leaves behind his beloved sister-in-law, Maureen Redman and brother-in-law and sister-in-law Dr. and Mrs. Thomas Cronan as well as many nieces and nephews both in this area and in Italy including his special niece, Anna Maria Rabel.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 23, 2018 at 10 a.m. at St. Ann Church (St. Raphael Parish), 501 Naugatuck Ave., Milford, CT. Burial will be private. Friends are invited to call on Monday, October 22, 2018 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.

Miles, Robert E.

Apr. 10, 1930 – Oct. 18, 2018 Robert E. Miles, age 88, of Milford, beloved husband of Dorothy Widmer Miles, died on Thursday, October 18, 2018. Robert was born in Stamford on April 10, 1930 to the late Ralph Sylvester and Marion Mahogany Miles. He worked as a welder for Mesco Inc. for over 35 years. Survivors include his children, Robert A. Miles of New Haven and John E. Miles of Milford, two grandchildren; Robert T. Miles and Cherilyn Miles, one great-grandchild, Amelie Choiniere, twin sister, Ruth Hassenmayer and her husband Walter of Milford, sister, Jane VanValkenburgh of New Hampshire and many nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and nephews. Bob is predeceased by his brother, Edward Miles and his wife Alice, sister, Mary White and her husband Marcus and brother-in-law, James VanValkenburgh. Family and friends may call on Friday, October 26th from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. in THE GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME, 291 BRIDGEPORT AVENUE, MILFORD. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at the United Church of Christ in Devon, 30 Ormond Street. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The United Church of Christ in Devon. To share a memory, please visit, www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.

Monroe, Michael William

Michael William Monroe, age 31, was killed in a car accident on September 25, 2018 while on his honeymoon in Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Michael made the world a better place with his kindness and sense of humor and will be missed dearly by those who knew him.

Michael leaves behind his beloved wife, Caroline of Orange, Conn.; parents, Charles and Laura Monroe of Fairlawn; sister Caroline Monroe (Nhut Diep) of San Francisco, and the extended McKenna-Braaksma family around the country.

Michael was born and raised in Fairlawn, Ohio. After graduating from Copley High School in 2005, he earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He trained as a teacher outside Madison and later worked with at-risk students in East Haddam and Hartford, Connecticut, and with autistic adults and youth at Vista Life Innovations in southern Connecticut.

Michael was a kind and loving man, with a witty sense of humor who always had a friendly smile or joke for everyone. In high school, he was very active at Bath United Church of Christ in the youth group and in their Brass Choir. At Copley High School, Michael was on the swim team and played doubles tennis with his lifetime best friend, Nick Hatch. Michael joyfully played trumpet in his high school band and with the University of Wisconsin Marching Band.

Michael was deeply compassionate and with a passion to help those who struggled, which led to his career choices. While in Madison, he volunteered for a community center in Madison and worked at the YMCA as a summer camp counselor and coach. His passions later took him to Connecticut to teach young adults with autism, which is where he met Caroline, the love of his life.

He enjoyed all sports (especially Wisconsin Badger football) and could be found opening day at every blockbuster superhero movie. Michael doted on his adopted terrier Monty and lovingly welcomed an Australian Shepherd named Milo when he met Caroline.

After marrying during the summer of 2017 along the shore of Lake Michigan, Michael and Caroline saved for a year for their dream trip to Ireland and loved their time there among its beautiful people and landscapes.

The accident occurred in Northern Ireland, and the people there, especially the bereavement group Life After, did everything they could to help Caroline, her mother Aileen McKenna, and brother, Will Braaksma, cope with the tragedy. For all the support provided by the people of Northern Ireland, our families are very grateful.

Michael’s life was enriched and touched by so many amazing people in Ohio, Wisconsin, and Connecticut. We can’t thank them all, but they are in our hearts.

A celebration of life service will be planned for a later date. Those wishing to contribute in his memory are encouraged to make a donation to the Life After organization of Northern Ireland or choose a favorite charity serving an important need in your local community.

Moran, Sandra M.

Sandra M. Moran, 76, of Orange, entered into eternal rest peacefully on Wednesday, October 24, 2018. The daughter of the late Alfred and Ann Gondola Bouteiller, Sandra was born on December 31, 1941 in Derby, CT.

Sandra is survived by her beloved husband Leo T. Moran, her sons Paul (Sue) Moran, Thomas Moran and grandchildren Bailey and Ryan. She is also survived by her twin sister Leela A. Wojczak, nephew Anthony (Mary) Wojczak and niece Wendy Wojczak. Sandra is predeceased by her infant son Leo, Jr. and her brother Alfred Bouteiller.

Upon high school graduation, Sandra became a certified Operation Room Technician and worked at Griffin Hospital for 15 years. Then she worked at the Veteran Hospital in West Palm Beach as a Medical Transcriptionist, which she retired from. She was a huge Red Sox and UCONN Women’s fan. Sandra also loved to travel whenever she could.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, October 29, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Infant Church, 450 Racebrook Rd, Orange, CT. Burial will follow at Orange Center Cemetery, Orange, CT. Family and friends are invited to call on Sunday, October 28, 2018 from 4 to 7 p.m. at CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Orange Volunteer Fire Dept. PO Box 878 Orange, CT 06477, Charter Hose Co. #4 4 Murry St. Ansonia, CT 06401, or Hospice. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.

Murray, William H.

William H. Murray, age 83, of Milford, beloved husband of Elizabeth Rice Murray for 63 years, died on Tuesday, October 9th surrounded by his family. Bill was born in Bridgeport, CT on December 1, 1934 to the late William and Ruth Hackett Murray. Bill was a mechanical engineer and worked at Sikorsky and Avco Textron Lycoming. He also taught engineering at University of New Haven for 30 years and at Fairfield University for 10 years. Survivors, in addition to his wife, include his children: Karen Feulner of Milford and William Patrick Murray and his husband Jeffrey Wingo of Morrilton, AR, three grandchildren; Michael, Megan and Melissa Feulner, siblings; Ruth Cretella and her husband Donald of West Haven and Thomas Murray and his wife Catherine of New Hampshire and several nieces and nephews. Bill is predeceased by his brother, Robert Murray. He will be dearly missed by his family and TV partner, his dog Zoey. Friends and family may call on Tuesday morning from 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. in The Gregory F. Doyle Funeral Home, 291 Bridgeport Avenue, Milford. A Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 a.m. in Saint Gabriel Church, (Saint Raphael Parish) Milford. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the University of New Haven Scholarship fund in Williams’ memory. To share an online condolence, please visit www.gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.

Napolitano, Mary Jane

Mary Jane Napolitano, age 87 of Shelton formally of Orange passed away peacefully at Bishop-Wicke Health Care in Shelton CT. Beloved wife of the late John Napolitano. She is survived by her daughter loving Barbara (Mike) Richitelli of West Haven.

She is survived by her sister, Barbara Schankel of Florida, as well as her six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She is predeceased by one brother and one sister.

MJ was born on May 23, 1931 in New Haven, CT. She grew up in Orange, after graduating from high school she went on to pursue her career as a Hostess at Howard Johnsons in Milford for over 30 years; she then went on to work at the Olive Garden in Orange for an additional three delightful years. MJ was a dedicated NY Yankees’ fan who loved taking trips to the casino and spending quality time with her family. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at Bishop-Wicke Hospital for taking extraordinary care of MJ.

Family and friends may visit the Keenan Funeral Home, 238 Elm St. West Haven CT on Tuesday October 23th from 5 to 7pm with a service at 7pm.

Pepe, James J. Jr.

James J. Pepe, Jr., age 75, of Milford, beloved husband of Judith Pagnozzi Pepe, passed away on Sunday, October 21, 2018.

Affectionately known as “Jimmy” or “Pepe” by his family and close friends, he was born and raised in Bridgeport. A Milford resident, he had worked for the Valleri Brothers Transportation Co. for many years until his retirement.

Jimmy loved the drum corps. In his youth, he was a baritone horn player and marched for the Bridgeport P.A.L. Cadets from 1958 to 1963 and later for the Ct. Hurricanes from 1963 to 1973. He was an avid hunter and was a military and history buff. He had a passion for helping those in need whether it was family or friends. Jimmy always had a pot of coffee on and enjoyed sitting at the kitchen table for countless hours, talking with anyone over a cup of coffee and some pastries.

A kind and gentle man, Jimmy will be fondly remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. He will be greatly missed. In addition to Judy, his devoted wife of 55 years, survivors include his two cherished daughters, Deneen Prushinski and her husband John of Sevierville, TN and Dana Magri and her husband Sam of Fairfield, his precious grandson Justin James Magri whom he loved more than life itself, a brother Joseph Pepe, a sister in law Valerie Gilberti and her husband Thomas, brother in law Gary Pagnozzi and his wife Carole, an aunt Pat Defeo his Godson Tyler Defeo, all of Milford. He leaves behind his mother in law Florence Pagnozzi of Stratford and his ” adopted ” grandson Ronnie Carlona of Bridgeport. In addition to his parents, Jimmy was predeceased by his parents, James J. Pepe Sr. and Mary Park Pepe, two brothers Stephen Pepe and Frank Pepe, as well as his father in law August Pagnozzi.

Funeral services will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to: www.ShrinersHospitalforChildren.org. To sign an online register, please visit www.LeskoPolkeFuneralHome.com.

Petro, Michael P.

Michael P. Petro, age 80, of Milford, beloved husband of the late Susan Abrams Petro, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 18, 2018 at Carriage Green, in Milford. Mike was born in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania to the late Michael and Elizabeth (Senk) Petro, and has been a life long area resident. He was a retired X-Ray Technician for AVCO-Lycoming. Mike was an avid bowler, of both, Duckpin and Ten Pin, and enjoyed his trips to Florida, and to the Casino’s, especially Mohegan Sun and Atlantic City. Survivors include his devoted children, Michael K. Petro and his wife Wilma of Orange, Pamela Robinson and her husband William of North Carolina, and Michele Miller and her husband Michael of Milford, cherished grandchildren, Victoria and Joshua Petro, and Samantha and Scott Orfino, a great-granddaughter, Alana Marie Brown, brother, Ronald Petro and his wife Julie of West Haven, longtime companion, Jacqueline Cable, and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife and parents, Mike was pre-deceased by his sister, Barbara. Funeral services will take place on Thursday October 25th at 10:00 a.m. meeting directly at Christ the Redeemer Church 325 Oronoque Road Milford. Interment will follow at Kings Highway Cemetery, Milford. Friends may greet Mike’s family on Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. in the Adzima Funeral Home 50 Paradise Green Place, Stratford. In lieu of flowers those desiring may make donations in memory of Mike to your favorite charity.

For more information or to make an online condolence please visit: www.adzimafuneralhome.com

Ramos, James J.

James J. Ramos, 86, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at Milford Hospital. He was the husband of Irene (Fortes) Ramos of Milford. He was born in New Haven, CT on October 22, 1932 to the late Joseph Carlos and Emelia (Freitas) Ramos. Mr. Ramos worked as an insurance broker for many years and served as an usher at Christ the Redeemer Church. He was also a U.S. Army veteran. An accomplished guitar and bass player, James loved singing and playing traditional Cape Verdean music with his family. He also enjoyed duckpin bowling and was an avid sports fan of his beloved New York Yankees, Giants and Knicks. In addition to his wife Irene, he leaves to cherish his memory, sons Gary, David and wife Jill, Jeffrey and wife Jennifer; daughters Marie Elena and husband James Almeida, Stephanie and Mikela; 11 cherished grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and his siblings; brothers Edmund and wife Andrea, Joseph, and sister Margaret. He will be lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brothers Antonio, Manuel, Carlos, Peter, Paul and sisters, Josepha, Julia and Constancia. Family would also like to thank his loving caregivers, Jeanine, Mary, April and others. Family will receive friends on Sunday, October 28 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Smith Funeral Home, 135 Broad St., Milford. Funeral will begin 10 a.m. DIRECTLY at Christ the Redeemer Church. Committal with Military Honors to follow at Kings Highway Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Christ the Redeemer Church, 325 Oronoque Rd., Milford, CT 06461. To leave condolences or for directions, please visit www.georgejsmithandson.com.

Russell, John “Jack” W.

John “Jack” W. Russell, 75, of Milford, beloved husband of Midori Russell, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2018. Jack was born on January 11, 1943 in Milford to the late Wilbur and Dorothy Russell.

Jack was stationed in South Korea for two years in the US Army and worked many years as a manager at SNET. He was a loving and caring husband, brother and uncle. Jack was a kind hearted soul with a witty sense of humor who was loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jack leaves behind his siblings, Patricia Sullivan, Priscilla (Edward) Hartel and Kathleen (William) Bloxsom; sisters-in-law, Debbie Russell and Sumako Peck; parents-in-law, Ronald and Yoko Senes; and many nieces and nephews. Jack was predeceased by his brother, Ronald Russell and his brother-in-law, Edward Sullivan.

At Jack’s request, no services will be taking place at this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in John’s honor may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, Attn: Office of Development, 2900 N. Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, FL 33607or online at www.shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/shc/donate. The family has been 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.

Simons, Lynn (Lebon)

Lynn (Lebon) Simons, 72, of Orange, CT, devoted wife of Bruce S. Simons, passed away peacefully at Smilow Cancer Hospital on Friday, Oct. 26, 2018. Born in Waterbury, CT, Oct. 2, 1946, Lynn was a daughter of the late Max and Thelma Lebon. Beloved mother of Jennifer Cohen (Lewis) of Orange, Kimberly Murphy (James) of Milford, Todd Simons (Ali) of Orange, and Karra Simons of Orange. Dear sister of K.C. Fodor (Joseph) of Hilton Head, S.C.
Cherished grandmother of Jacob, Lizzy, Sean, Max, Lily, Grace, and Ethan.

Lynn received her B.S. in Nursing from the University of Connecticut and worked at many area hospitals, Amity Regional High School, the So. CT Hebrew Academy, the Orange Visiting Nurse Assoc., and the Goodwin-Levine Adult Day Care Center. Nursing was Lynn’s passion and caring for others her love. She would always think of others before she would think of herself.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Smilow Cancer Hospital for the loving care given to and devotion shown to Lynn over the past 4 years.

Funeral Services will be held at Congregation Or Shalom, 205 Old Grassy Hill Rd., Orange, CT, on Monday morning, Oct. 29th at 11:00 a.m. with Interment Services to follow at B’nai Jacob Memorial Park, 200 Wintergreen Ave., New Haven. Memorial Contributions may be sent to YNHH Development Office, Smilow Oncology Social Work Fund, P.O. Box 1849, New Haven, CT 06508. A Period of Mourning will be observed at 283 Oakview Drive Ext., Orange, Monday & Tuesday, 6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Funeral Arrangements in care of Robert E. Shure & Son Funeral Home, New Haven. To sign an on-line registry book or to leave a message of condolence, please visit: www.shurefuneralhome.com.

Stirk, Marcia A.

Marcia A. Stirk, 63, of Milford, beloved wife of 40 years to Albert Stirk, passed away on October 23, 2018. Born on January 18, 1955 in Bridgeport, CT, she was the daughter of Mary Louise Nettleton Dunn and the late John F. Dunn.

Marcia was a graduate of Assumption College and worked as a paraprofessional at Milford’s Harborside Middle School for the past 25 years. She enjoyed horseback riding and reading and she will be greatly missed by many.

In addition to her beloved husband and mother, Marcia is survived by her children, Patrick (Tara) Stirk, and Abby (Joshua Spoerndle) Stirk; her grandchildren, Thomas Marchitto, Eva and Julianna Stirk, and Wyatt Spoerndle; her siblings, John (Michelle) Dunn, and Robert (Mary) Dunn; her great-aunt, Patricia Nettleton; her several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and her dog, Duncan. Marcia was predeceased by her grandmother, Marie Nettleton.

A Graveside Service will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 30, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Michael Cemetery, 2205 Stratford Ave., Stratford, CT (MEET DIRECTLY AT CEMETERY). In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the CT Humane Society at www.cthumane.org. The family is being compassionately cared for by the staff of CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 Broad St., Milford, CT. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.

Toohey, Robert F.

Robert F. Toohey, age 84, of Milford passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, October 18, 2018. Born in Bridgeport on September 12, 1934, he was a son of the late Edward L. and Ann Condon Toohey. A U.S. Army veteran, he had served honorably during the Korean War. Robert was proud to have graduated from the University of Bridgeport in 1968, where he received his bachelor’s degree. He was an avid golfer and established many lasting friendships through his past membership at the Bronson Country Club and currently at Racebrook Country Club for the last 35 years. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his loving sister, Ann Gallagher and her husband William of Enfield, his cherished granddaughter, Erin Halloran and her husband Kevin of Willoughby Hills, OH and his adored great grandchildren, Seamus and Madison Halloran. In addition to his longtime companion Dolores Mastri of nearly 30 years, he was also predeceased by his daughters, Elizabeth Wedda and Sharon Holton, his granddaughter, Leighann Holton, his brothers, Edward and Philip Toohey and his sister, Patricia Toohey. The family would like to thank the nursing staff at Vitas Healthcare for the wonderful care given to Robert. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, October 25, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. directly in St. Theresa Church, 5301 Main St., Trumbull. Entombment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Trumbull. Friends may greet the family on Wednesday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Rd., Trumbull. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Yale New Haven Health, Smilow Cancer Hospital, Office of Development, P.O. Box 1849, New Haven CT 06508-9979. For online condolences, please visit us at www.abriola.com.

Tuohy, Edward R. III

Edward Robert Tuohy III, 77, of Milford, beloved husband of Joananne, lost his battle with cancer on Saturday, October 20, 2018. Born on November 23, 1940 in Jersey City, NJ he was the son of the late Mary Kennedy and Edward R. Tuohy Jr.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on October 27, 2018 at 1:00 pm at Saint Mary Church, 70 Gulf St., Milford. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Saint Mary Cemetery, Buckingham Ave., Milford. Friends and family may call from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on October 26, 2018 at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 Broad St., Milford. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Smilow Cancer Center of Yale New-Haven Health. To view the full obituary or leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.

Varsh, Rosina M.

At the Griffin Hospital in Derby, CT. Sunday October 21, 2018 Rosina M. Varsh made her transition peacefully surrounded by her family she was 96. Rosina was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. March 31, 1922. Daughter of the late Dr. Melchior F.R. Savarese and Josephine (Monaco) Savarese. She was one of five children. The family moved to Orange, CT. when she was eight where she attended Orange Center School. After graduating Hillhouse High School she studied at Yale School of Fine Arts and The Art Career Institute in N.Y.C. She worked as an illustrator for major department stores there. At Yale she met the love of her life, Vincent (Bill) Varsh. Rosina and Bill were married after WW II and enjoyed 60 fulfilling years together until his passing in 2005. They raised three sons and were engaged in many local, civic and church activities in Orange. She was a cub scout den mother, a president of the Holy Infant Women’s Guild, PTA and active with the Lionesses. She brought her artistic talent to bear in all her volunteer pursuits creating murals, displays and restorations. Dedicated to helping raise her four grandchildren, they were enriched by their Nana’s creativity and encouragement. Her legacy of love will live on in their lives. She was a faithful sister and devoted aunt to her eleven nieces and nephews. Their Aunt Ro holds a special place in their hearts. Rosina made friends easily and kept them for life. She was generous, caring, protective and loyal. Her home was a safe haven where family and friends found sanctuary and renewal and no stray animal was turned away. She will be eternally missed by all whose lives she touched. Rosina survived by her three cherished sons Vincent (Naomi), William (Carmela) Richard (Donna) her beloved four grandchildren Regina (Gagi) and William, Vincent and Vanessa, great granddaughter Natalie her brother Pasquale Savarese, She was predeceased by sisters Rita and Lucia and brother Melchior. The family will receive friends on Thursday October 25, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. in the Holy Infant Church 456 Race Brook Road Orange, CT. 06477 and at 11:00 a.m. her mass of Christian Burial will begin. Burial will be in the family plot at Mt. St. Peters Cemetery, 219 New Haven Ave. Derby, CT. 06418.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.