Kenny Funeral Homes
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Obituaries
Catherine Jazzo
BANTAM - Catherine Jazzo, 77, of Bantam, CT, passed away November 18, 2024 at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital surrounded by her family.
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Catherine was born January 6, 1947 in Yonkers, NY to the late Joseph and Edythe (Parry) Jazzo.
She was a volunteer EMT and firefighter for the Kent Volunteer Fire Department. She later pursued a career as a paramedic. In 1999 she relocated to Las Vegas, NV where she was employed as a security guard until her retirement in 2013.
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She is survived by her son Christopher (June) Shine, daughters Sharon (Mark) Shine and Michelle (James) O’Sullivan, her three grandchildren, Andrew (Fara) Shine, James and Andrea O’Sullivan and a bonus grandson Liam Sweeney and siblings Joseph and Alice, many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister Barbara Leslie.
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A memorial service will be held at Saint Andrews Parish in Kent, CT on December 7, at 10:30 am with a reception to follow at the Fife and Drum Inn, Kent, CT.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Kent Community Fund at PO Box 262, Kent, CT 06757 or the Oliver Wolcott Library at PO Box 187, Litchfield, CT 06759.
Fred Kantrowitz
SHARON - Dr. Fred G. Kantrowitz, 78, of Medfield, MA, Vineyard Haven, MA and Sharon, CT, passed away November 13, 2024, at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. He was the loving husband of Anne Kirby, devoted father of Gregory and William, father-in-law of Katie and Brittanny, and proud grandfather of Jack, Ava and Jameson.
Fred was born December 10, 1945 in Brooklyn, New York, the son of the late Theo and Dinah (Kotick) Kantrowitz. His own health struggles as a child, intellectual curiosity and desire to help others led him to a career in medicine. Fred’s illustrious medical career was highlighted by nearly 50 years on the Beth Israel staff, more than 30 published works and a chapter as team doctor for the Boston Celtics. Later in his career, he developed a reputation for being the doctor to handle only the most complex cases, including long Covid.
Fred’s work also occasionally crossed with his personal interests, which were numerous. From interviewing Mickey Mantle and Whitey Ford for his book on sports medicine to his passion for literature, Fred’s intellectual curiosity meant he could hold a conversation with nearly anyone on any topic. His many hobbies and interests included model trains, stamps and coins, freshwater fishing, horseback riding, sports, and history.
Fred married Anne, the love of his life, on December 5, 1981 during a blizzard in Boston. In addition to Anne and his immediate family, he is survived by his brother Marc (Marianne), sister Sue (Mark), and many loving nieces and nephews.
A private memorial service will be held at the Kenny Funeral Home in Sharon, CT on Saturday November 16, at 10:00 a.m., followed by burial at St. Bernard’s Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the following causes:
Martha’s Vineyard (MV) Museum, 151 Lagoon Pond Road, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568
Sharon Historical Society, 18 Main Street, Sharon, CT 06069
Charles River School, 6 Old Meadow Road, Dover, MA 02030
Rose Moskowitz
CANAAN – Rose Moskowitz, 98, of Geer Village in Canaan, CT passed away on November 9, 2024. She was the loving wife of the late Bernard Moskowitz.
Rose was born August 2, 1926 in New York city, the daughter of the late David and Regina (Shanker) Gunn.
Rose graduated from high school in the Bronx.
Her late husband served in the U.S. Army during WWII and survived D-Day on the beaches of France. Rose Moskowitz was a kind and sweet woman who deeply loved her family.
She is survived by a son, Larry Moskowitz (Nancy Moskowitz) of Sharon, a daughter, Arlene Greenspan (Harold Greenspan) of Boston, five grandchildren: Jesse, Melissa, Evan, Keith and Elena and two great grandchildren: Hazel and Simon. She was predeceased by her five siblings.
A private memorial service for the family will be held in the spring.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Sharon Housing Trust, P.O. Box 1168, Sharon, CT. 06069 or on the website SHTCT.org. in memory of Rose Moskowitz.
Frank Bailey
TORRINGTON - Frank J. Bailey, 71, formerly of Cornwall, passed away November 5, 2024 at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital with his loving family by his side.
Frank was born July 17, 1953 in Torrington. He was the son of Frank H. Bailey and Geraldine E. (Fahey) Bailey.
He was a 1971 graduate of HVRHS. He worked at the Cornwall landfill, did lawn care with John O'Donnell, drove for Lipicott Moving Company. He was very talented and handy in many things - carpentry, electrical and all kinds of different jobs. Frank would help anyone with whatever job they needed done and would always try to make people smile. He loved working on cars as well, rebuilding and painting them. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle.
In 1973, he suffered a traumatic head injury from a serious motorcycle accident that changed his life completely.
Frank is survived by his son Justin Bailey and wife Denise, daughter Torina Stanton, son John Stanton, his grandchildren Anora and Analeise Bailey, Brett Sherman, Marissa Caron, 5 great-grandchildren and one on the way. He also leaves behind his sisters Christine and her husband Richard Morin, June Gustafson, Geraldine and her husband James Nivolo, Jean and her husband James Seitz, Rita and her husband William Beatty and several nieces and nephews.
Frank had a great time raising his children, he was a caring and loving father and grandfather. He was always cracking jokes, he had a great sense of humor. He will be missed by everyone.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Cornwall Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 180, West Cornwall, CT 06796.
Steven Pressley
FALLS VILLAGE – Steven Jonathan Pressley, 75, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2024, at Yale New Haven Hospital. Steve was predeceased by his beloved wife Therese Keenen Pressley on December 12, 2022, after 36 years of marriage, having lived in Sharon and Falls Village for over 30 years.
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Born on November 26, 1948, in Bayshore, New York, the 2nd son of 4 children of the late C.G. “Lefty” and Sophie Pressley, Steve graduated from Trumbull High School, Trumbull CT and Northeastern University, Boston, MA with a degree in Engineering.
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Steve served as partner of Pressley Auto Parts, Inc. of Bridgeport, Norwalk & West Haven, CT from the 1960’s through the 1980’s. His interest and knowledge of high performance vehicles and racing led him to oversee numerous Pressley Auto Parts sponsored race cars, including drag racing and stock car racing.
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His love of racing, along with his engineering acumen, led him to Mecca Development in 1980. This morphed into serving as a Vice President and General Manager of Evans Cooling Systems in Sharon, CT. With his detailed knowledge of engineering, coupled with his inquisitive mind for analysis and creative solutions, Steve was a partner in research and development for automotive engineering and partnered in a patented waterless engine coolant system for automobiles. This new system was used by famous race car drivers, including Brett Hearn’s race car for dirt modified racing and Nascar driver Bobby Allison, as well as other world-class drivers. Steve’s impact in development also included Ferrari and Formula One race cars.
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Steve’s involvement in engines included an integral part of the recovery of a World War II P-38 (known as the Glacier Girl) located under 268 feet of ice -- one of the “Lost Squandron” (lost in 1942 in Greenland) starting in 1992 – now displayed in the P-38 Museum located in Middlesboro, Kentucky.
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He is survived by his siblings, Robert G. Pressley (wife, Jackie Pressley), Paul J. Pressley (wife, Leslie Pressley) and Jean Pressley McClung (husband, Philip McClung), as well as many nieces/nephews, great-nieces/nephews and his brother-in-law’s, sister-in-law’s, nieces/nephews, and great-nieces/nephews of his late wife, Therese.
A memorial service will be held in June in Falls Village at a date to be determined.
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Memorial contributions can be made in his name to: The Little Guild, an animal shelter in Cornwall, CT, which was near and dear to both Steve’s, and his late wife, Therese’s, heart.
Donations can be made online at: www.littleguild.org/supportus.
Joan Wallace
LAKEVILLE - Joan H. Wallace artist, political activist, and long-time resident of New York City and the Northwest Corner died at home in Lakeville at age 93 on October 30, 2024.
Ms. Wallace, née Joan Elaine Hochstuhl, was born in 1931, the daughter of Elsie Wibben and Ernest Hochstuhl, both the offspring of German immigrants. Much of her childhood was spent in Syosset, Long Island with a couple of years in the Adirondack town of Bloomingdale where she sought relief from severe childhood asthma. She attended secondary school at Friends Academy in Locust Valley, NY and received an Associate degree from Lasell College.
Fresh out of college, Ms. Wallace moved to NYC where she worked in public relations for The New Yorker magazine and dabbled in creative writing. A couple of her stories were published in Esquire magazine, something viewed by her parents as scandalous for a young lady. In 1956, she met a young engineer, George A. P. Wallace, and they married in 1957, had three children, and remained together for 54 years until Mr. Wallace passed away in 2011.
Although Ms. Wallace returned to work in public relations for the Museum of Modern Art during the 1970s, she was above all an accomplished artist and lifelong student of art, specializing in oil painting, drawing, pastels, and photography. In New York City, she studied art history at Columbia University for three years, completed a four-year certificate program at the Art Students League, two years of study in composition and art analysis at the National Academy School of Fine Arts, and studied advanced photographic and darkroom techniques at the New School-Parsons School of Design. At one time, six mural-sized versions of her NYC cityscape photographs were on permanent exhibit in the NYC headquarters of Blue Cross Blue Shield. Her work was shown in various galleries and exhibits, and she sold works to private collectors.
Ms. Wallace and her husband were active art patrons during their time in New York, as well as the brief years they were residents of Portland, ME, Boston, MA, and finally in the Northwest Corner where they lived permanently from 1998 onwards. In addition to fine arts, they supported theater, opera, and early music. Ms. Wallace was passionate about politics, the positive role of government, and a firm believer in active participation in the democratic process. She worked on several political campaigns, notably those of John Lindsay for mayor of New York City and Hubert Humphrey for president, including hosting campaign events in her home. She encouraged her children to also volunteer in political campaigns. Ms. Wallace was an ardent feminist and early supporter of National Organization of Women (NOW) and worked steadfastly on their behalf for many years. She was also a devoted pacifist and threw herself into opposition of the Vietnam War, including helping to organize the huge New York City march in October 1969 that made up part of the national Moratorium to End the War in Vietnam.
Certainly, a highlight of her life was her fascination with Italy, including its long history, art, architecture, religious evolution, and present-day society. In 1988, she and her husband purchased a property in the medieval hill town of Casole d’Elsa. Together they renovated the house, a slice of the wall built in the 11th century with the village on the inside and sweeping views of Tuscan farmland on the outside. Their many trips to Casole were the springboard for extensive travels in Italy, Greece, Turkey, many friendships, and a window into the rather frenetic, but wonderful, chaos of present-day Italian society.
Philanthropy was important to Ms. Wallace and, in addition to her support for the arts, she and her husband supported many national and local environmental organizations, including Salisbury Land Trust, Sharon Audubon, Appalachian Mountain Club, American Bird Conservancy, and Sierra Club.
She is fondly remembered by her family and friends as an active conversationist, an avid reader, and one who was always sensitive to the beauty around her. Ms. Wallace is survived by a son, George E. Wallace of Salisbury, Ct., a daughter, E. Ainslie Wallace of Cambridge, Ma., and eight grandchildren, four of whom are the offspring of her daughter Elaine who passed away in 2019.
A private memorial service is planned.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Union of Concerned Scientists either via their website at www.ucsusa.org or by mail to Union of Concerned Scientists, 2 Brattle Square, Cambridge, MA 02138.
Gilbert Beers
WEST CORNWALL - Gilbert Jerome Beers, age 73, of Town St., West Cornwall, passed away on October 27, 2024, at Sharon Hospital. He was the loving father of Louis and David Beers.
Jerry was born on January 9, 1951, in New York City and is the son of the late Yardley and Dorothy (Sands) Beers.
Jerry obtained his undergraduate degree from Yale University and then attended Boston University Medical School. He trained as a neuroradiologist and worked at multiple premier institutions including Boston University, Columbia, and Brigham and Women’s Hospitals.
Jerry appreciated the small joys of everyday life. A perfect weekend to him was one in which he and his family would get away from the busy city and go to Cornwall, CT, spending time with one another hiking, grilling, and laughing. He will be remembered fondly by his family for many years of such moments together.
He is survived by his wife, Angela and his sons, Louis and David.
A memorial service will be held at a future date.
Stephen Getz
NORFOLK - Stephen Jesson Getz passed away from multiple causes on October 7 at Noble Horizons in Salisbury. He was 74 and lived in Norfolk with partner and husband of 46 years, Peter Coffeen.
Stephen was born May 4,1950 the son of the late Roger and Genevieve (Jesson) Getz.
He spent his early life in Oklahoma and Kansas, graduating as a valedictorian in 1970 from Bacon College in Muskogee where his father was president, and a BA from Ottawa University in Kansas.
In Oklahoma he lived among native tribesmen and later traveled with his parents and younger sister to the Philippines and southeast Asia where his father served as an agricultural minister for the American Baptist Church World Service. His fathers work gave him a sense of compassion and service. Later Steve would use his family contacts while traveling around the world on a single ticket from PanAm. After college he took an administrative post at Chicago’s Roosevelt University. There he was known for his administrative skills and diplomacy.
His New York work history began with Joe Papp at the Public Theater, several talented agencies, a casting agent, Goldman Sachs which he left for a post in the business office at Little Red School and finally 25 years in financial administration at Columbia University.
As a Norfolk Resident he volunteered his services as treasurer of the Land Trust, the Norfolk Library, and as bookkeeper at the Historical Society. He worked the polls at every election and was an active member of the Lions Club.
Besides his husband Peter, Stephen is survived by a younger sister Ellen, two brothers, Bob and Jack and assorted nieces and nephews. Besides his parents Steven was predeceased by a brother Will.
A memorial service will be celebrated on Saturday, October 26 at the United Church of Christ at 11:00AM.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Norfolk Lions Club Ambulance, PO Box 399, Norfolk CT. 06058.
Karen Fisher
CORNWALL - Karen Blakey Fisher, born on May 26, 1956, in Torrington, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2024, at Hartford Hospital, Hartford Connecticut. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter and friend who touched the lives of many with her infectious laughter and unwavering spirit.
Karen dedicated her life to her family and her passions. She and her husband, Gordon, spent countless hours nurturing their garden, sharing their love for flowers, and creating beautiful planters. An avid cook, she delighted in preparing meals for loved ones and cherished moments spent by the water, especially during family trips to Cape Cod. Karen was known for her adventurous spirit, often embarking on exciting outings with her daughter, Melissa, and granddaughter, Devyn. She had a remarkable ability to keep everyone entertained and was always the happiest person in the room.
Karen was a proud graduate of Housatonic Valley Regional High School and dedicated her professional life to helping others. After working in home healthcare, she and her sister, Lori, opened an environmentally conscious product store in Torrington. Later, she ran a deli in Cornwall, managing it from start to finish with her characteristic flair.
She is survived by her husband, Gordon Fisher; daughter, Melissa Root; granddaughter, Devyn Root; father, Gerald Blakey; mother, Patricia Benedict Blakey; brother, David Blakey; sister, Lori Blakey-Welles and her husband, David Welles; and cousin, Pamela Blakey-Hart. Karen's legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Karen will be remembered by her family at a private burial service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the American Cancer Society, honoring Karen's compassionate spirit and her desire to help others. Her favorite quote, “What are they going to do, take away your birthday?” will always remind us to celebrate life, just as she did.
Anne Sherman
TORRINGTON - Anne Brenda Sherman, 85, of Torrington, Connecticut peacefully passed away on Monday September 16, 2024, following a brief illness.
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The daughter of the late George E. Greb-Lasky and Margaret Mary (Flynn), she was born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania in 1938, lived in New Britain, Connecticut, then moved to Winchester in 1972 and finally Torrington, Connecticut. She spent more than five decades in Northwestern Connecticut, raising her family, working as a nurse and social worker, teaching medical professionals, and serving as a volunteer in the community.
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She was predeceased by Roy Benson Sherman, M.D., whom she married in 1971.
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Brenda attended high school at Mary Immaculate Academy in New Britain. She graduated as a registered nurse from St. Mary’s Hospital Nursing School in Waterbury, Connecticut in 1959, beginning her medical career as an operating room staff nurse at New Britain General Hospital. In 1965 she completed an R.N. specialist program in ophthalmology at Baylor University College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. In 1967 she helped establish and coordinate the hospital’s new operating room technician program, and, in 1969, was named Co-Director of the In-Service Education Program for the Departments of Surgery and Anesthesia. In 1971 she was promoted to Assistant Operating Room Supervisor. She received her bachelor’s degree in nursing from Central Connecticut State University in 1972 and was subsequently promoted to O.R. Supervisor. She transitioned from the surgical floor to behavioral health in 1979, beginning this phase of her career as a Charge Nurse at Parkside Lodge of Connecticut (formerly Serenity Hill), where she guided and treated patients suffering from addiction as they went through an intensive detoxification program. She began working at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital in Torrington as a staff nurse on the In-Patient Psychiatric Unit in 1982. In 1988 she moved to the Out-Patient Psychiatric Clinic as a Case Manager. She earned her master’s degree in social work in 1995 from the prestigious University of Connecticut School of Social Work. This was done while balancing work and motherhood. Her positions at Charlotte included Lead Therapist for the Dual Diagnosis Outpatient Program and Case Manager for the Outpatient Behavioral Health Center. She was licensed by the state as a clinical social worker, as an addiction counselor, and an alcohol and drug counselor. In this role she supported thousands of patients to help them through treatment for mental illness, recovery from addiction, and to participate fully in life in the face of these complex and difficult maladies. Impressively, she continued this work, diligently, until the age of 81, before embarking on a well-deserved retirement.
She deeply cherished the friendships she formed with her many medical colleagues over her decades of health care service. Her professional accolades included Nurse of the Year at Charlotte in 2008 and a Certificate of Excellence in Clinical Mentoring from St. Joseph College in Connecticut. She served a five-year term on the Town of Winchester Advisory Commission for Persons with Disabilities and was a program presenter for assessment of dual diagnosis patients for the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. She was a member of the Litchfield County AIDS Consortium, overseeing the deployment of Ryan White funding in Northwest Connecticut. She also served as a regular guest lecturer on psychiatric disorders for the Northwestern Connecticut Community College in Winsted, Connecticut. She also helped start Charlotte’s program for Mental Health Services to the Homeless.
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Brenda overcame several serious illnesses during her lifetime. She was outgoing, forthright, considerate, tremendously organized, and driven to success professionally and personally. She worked very hard, overcame many obstacles, and was rewarded with professional achievement and a legacy of positive impacts on all those that she touched.
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She enjoyed reading Shakespeare, particularly the comedies, books on European and world history. She also liked musicals, and the popular music of Dolly Parton and Neil Diamond. Brenda was an avid animal lover and cared for many cats and dogs. She ran her own kennel “Winchester Labradors” for three decades, breeding champion labrador retrievers. The hundreds of labrador puppies she helped bring into the world became beloved companions to families all around the country. She traveled widely and especially enjoyed her journeys to Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean. She loved gardening and graced her homes with beautifully designed flower gardens, with a particular fondness for tulips, day lilies and hydrangea. She was an enthusiastic supporter of the UCONN women’s basketball team and attended many games.
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Brenda is survived by her brother Edward Greb-Lasky of Winchester and her two children, Richard Benson Sherman of Fairfax, Virginia and Robert Hamilton Sherman of Brooklyn, New York.
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At her request, a private service will be held for family.
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In lieu of flowers, her friends, colleagues and neighbors are encouraged to make donations in her name to one or more of her favored charities. More than a few (very) lucky cats from the Little Guild animal rescue in Cornwall found their homes with Brenda. The Community Kitchen in Torrington is an organization that feeds those in need and where she served in volunteer leadership for many years. She was an advocate for the work of Prime Time House in Torrington, which assists adults with mental illness find pathways to independence. She was also a regular donor to the Wounded Warrior Project.
These charities are always in need of support and your contribution would honor Brenda’s memory.
Robert Reynolds
LAKEVILLE - Robert Marquand Reynolds, of Lakeville, CT died on September 23, 2024 after living with cancer for 14 years.
He was born June 20, 1954 to Robert T. Reynolds and Lynda Gay (Mitchell) Reynolds and was raised in West Hartford. Marq graduated from Watkinson School and The University of Hartford.
Music was an important part of Marq's life from childhood. He taught himself to play guitar and drums at a young age. He said that his world would have been a much different place without music.
He had also been a skier, tennis and soccer player and enjoyed hockey, football and cars. He started trying to “drive” anything he could when he was 2 years old. His love of cars and driving never diminished.
He operated a photography business and was later employed in area’s including legal research and recently was an advertising director in the Berkshires and Litchfield County.
Marq was predeceased by his father, mother and sister Sue.
He leaves his wife of 12 years, Barbara Chatfield Reynolds, two step children, his sister Debby Mason, his brother Tom, and numerous nieces nephews and cousins. Also his beloved dog, Wink.
He would like to thank all who proved to be an important part of his life in friendship beginning in school. Some of those friendships were lifelong.
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All services are private.
Constance Walsh
WEST PALM BEACH, FL - Constance (Connie) Walsh of Quogue, NY, and West Palm Beach, FL, passed away peacefully on Sept. 16 following a brief illness and surrounded by the warm embrace of her loving family.
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Born August 2, 1938 in New York City, Connie grew up in Riverdale, attended Marymount College, and raised her family in New Rochelle, Bronxville, and Manhattan.
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A lover of sand and sea, she spent her childhood summers on the beach in Point Lookout then, with her parents, sister and brother, discovered Westhampton Beach and later Quogue, where she and her six children have summered for decades.
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An avid athlete, fabulous dancer, fashion maven, and invincible entrepreneur, Connie founded the children’s modeling agency Rascals Unlimited in Manhattan; opened the first internet cafe and coffee house in Lakeville, CT; and became a prominent real estate broker in New York City and Quogue.
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Connie was pre-deceased by her parents, Billie and Tom Walsh, her sister, Barbara Freehill, and brother, Thomas Walsh. A charismatic, valiant spirit and lover of life, Connie inspired all who met her.
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She is survived by her six adoring children Billie Fitzpatrick (Gretchen Weimer); Tracy Finnegan (Joe); Tara Fitzpatrick; Jacqui Fitzpatrick; Siobhan Austin (Bob); and Ryan Fitzpatrick (Tom Cunningham), and eleven grandchildren, Conor McGlone, Brendan McGlone, Darby McGlone, Joey McGlone, and Sophia Fitzpatrick; Sean Finnegan, Patrick Finnegan, and Daniel Finnegan; Grace Fitzpatrick and Dare Fitzpatrick; and Maud Fitzpatrick.
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A Memorial Mass will be held at Immaculate Conception, Quiogue, NY at 11am October 26, followed by a reception at the Quogue Field Club.
James Picton
SALISBURY - James Frederick Picton, age 71, of Salisbury, CT, died peacefully on September 14 after a long struggle with medical problems. He was the loving husband of Sarah (Cooke) Picton, who predeceased him. Sarah always said “Jim, you’re the best thing that ever happened to me.” Their time together was precious to Jim.
Born November 22, 1952 in Hackensack, NJ, Jim was the first child of Frederick James Picton and Evelyn Atkinson Picton. He grew up in Watchung, NJ and graduated from Watchung Hills Regional High School. After starting at Ohio Wesleyan University, he moved to New Hampshire and became a carpenter, studied English and journalism at Keene State University, and married Jennifer MacKenzie, with whom he raised three boys. He later married Paula McGray, whom he met at Quaker meetings. Their shared interests included bluegrass and traditional shape note singing.
Jim learned the trades early and had a career as a principled, accurate, and talented builder, in New Hampshire, Alaska in the late 1970’s, then in Washington, CT, where he built a major resort inn and many fine homes. Jim built his parents’ dream house in Roxbury, CT where the extended family gathered, grew up, worked, and played for 40 years. He had a long building partnership with his brother Mark, based at Washington’s old Woodruff Garage.
Bold from his early days, it was Jim who built the go-carts, tree forts, and high rope swings, and always ready to go first, led his friends in adventures and misadventures. As an adult, he became a careful and dedicated pilot, and took us on many unforgettable flights above the clouds and over our amazing world. When a heart condition took away his pilot’s license, he learned to wind surf and became a certified hang glider. Jim was an excellent cook, willing to try anything especially if wild caught or gathered, odd or obscure. We will miss him cooking and serving his chowder, fishcakes, gumbo and chili.
Jim liked to empower people and let them take charge. Gently, he would say “what do you think?,” meaning “when you ask a question, have the answer ready,” or sometimes “why don’t you fly the plane?” He put people at ease. He counseled conscientious objectors. His love for literature and expressive, clear writing, thinking, and talking merged with his bright humor to make him interesting and delightful company. When someone admired a newly built space, he liked to say “well, the space has always been here.” He wrote articles for building magazines and a pilot’s magazine.
Jim’s favorite place was on Cape Cod. He would walk barefoot through the dunes to fish in the surf, day or night. He loved quahogs, the smell of fish on the water, high and low tides, the shore, shoals, and the deep blue and emerald water, still and swift. His memory was sharp and clear to the last, bringing back the details we had forgotten. So he takes part of our lives with him on this journey, but we will thrive on the life he shared with us. He loved his family and friends.
Jim is survived by three sons, Derrick James, (diane Foglizzo), Dominick David (Katie Arteagaduran), and Dustin Mark Ian (Katie Picton); grandchildren Isaac, Finley, Beatrix, Antoine, Nicolas, Jackson, Frederick, Lawrence, and Romilly; brothers Mark Edward (Cynthia Williamson) and David Alan (Emiko Hayashi), sister Glynis Houde (Michael Houde); and nieces Ariel and Leah, and two nephews Hunter and Cameron.
Friends are welcome to join family at a memorial service to be held on Saturday November 30 at 10:00 a.m. at the Trinity Lime Rock Church in Lakeville, CT.
For those who wish to make a memorial contribution, we suggest Northeast Public Radio, the Housatonic Valley Association, or the American Red Cross of CT.
Jeremiah Fallon Jr.
NORTH CANAAN – Jeremiah Thomas Fallon, Jr., 93, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2024, at Noble Horizons. He was the loving husband of the late Anne Perotti Fallon.
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Jerry was born on March 26, 1931 in Great Barrington, Massachusetts to the late Jeremiah Thomas Fallon, Sr. and Roberta Fitzgerald Fallon.
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Jerry was a graduate of Housatonic Valley Regional High School, Class of 1949.
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During his teenage years he worked at the Canaan Golf Course.
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Jerry served his country in the Marines and was stationed at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, California and at Camp Lejeune, Cherry Point, North Carolina, where he was discharged from. Jerry was a sergeant and in the 160 Platoon Second Battalion. He received a National Defense Service Medal. After his honorable discharge in February, 1954, he returned to North Canaan and he married his sweetheart, Anne Perotti, on May 21, 1955, and built their home in Green Acres, where he was able to remain there until a short time before his death.
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He worked for Southern New England Telephone Company as a telephone installer and took early retirement at the age of 55. He also worked for his brothers-in-law at William Perotti & Sons, Inc., as the “parts and inventory guy” and drove any missing “parts” to the various plumbers at their job sites.
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Jerry played football, basketball, and baseball during his high school years at Housatonic Valley Regional High School. He was the captain of the basketball team during his senior year. He played baseball upon his return from the service in and around the Canaan area on the town team with his cousin, Dick Fallon, and they were quite the pair!
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He enjoyed all the fishing and ice fishing that took place at Twin Lakes with the Godburns and the rest of the “crew” he and Anne hung out with over the years. He took up golf later in life and could be found on many a golf course in and around Nokomis, Florida, where he and Anne would winter for many years, as well as when he was back at home in North Canaan. Jerry also enjoyed bowling in the Monday night league in Great Barrington. Jerry was involved in the Little League program in North Canaan and coached as well. He was a Member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed watching his grandkids play sports and participate in plays.
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He is survived by his son, Jeremiah T. Fallon, III (“Jay”) (and his former wife Louise Webber Fallon) and his daughter Lisa (and her husband Sean Patrick Neary), his brother Peter Fallon, his sister Cathy Fallon Warner (and her husband Fred), and his beloved grandchildren, who were his pride and joy, Joseph Jeremiah Neary, Phoebe Putnam Fallon, Caroline Clough Fallon, and Lauren Elizabeth Neary. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Mary Rose Fallon Sherwood, and brothers Robert Fallon and Patrick Fallon.
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A wake and celebration of Jerry’s life will be held on Monday, September 23, 2024 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Kenny Funeral Home at 41 Main Street, Sharon, Connecticut and a Catholic Funeral Mass on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at 11 a.m. at Saint Martin of Tours Church (formerly known as St. Joseph’s Church), 4 Main Street, North Canaan, Connecticut.
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Memorial contributions may be made in Jerry’s memory to the North Canaan Volunteer Ambulance Corps, P.O. Box 178, North Canaan, CT 06018, he was very grateful for their assistance and compassion to he and Anne over the last years of their respective lives.
John Robertson
SALISBURY - John W. Robertson, age 77, died September 5, 2024 at home. He was the loving husband of Linda Robertson.
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John was born May 6th 1947 in Rutherford, NJ the son of the late John and Kathleen (Colquhoun) Robertson.
John graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison, NJ.
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His life passion was devoted to his art work.
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He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Linda Robetrson, his daugher Sarah Whittaker (Marc), his son Ian Robertson (Lauren), his sister Karen Brown (Neal) and his sister Marily Scheifele. He is also survived by two grandchildren, William and Lily Whitaker.
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A Mass was held at Saint Mary’s Church, Lakeville CT on September 17, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.
All other services are private.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or CT Hospice.
Ann Marie Nonkin
LAKEVILLE - Ann Marie Nonkin, 80, of Millerton Road, passed away August 25, 2024, at Connecticut Hospice in Branford, CT. She was the loving wife of the late Dr. Paul Nonkin.
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She was born April 12, 1944 in Queens, New York, the daughter of the late John and Ann Vallen.
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She was a medical technician for Manhattan Eye and Ear for many years.
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She was an active Parishioner in years past at St. Mary’s Church in Lakeville, CT, where she ran many activities. Alongside that, she was an avid gardener.
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She is survived by one cousin, Joan Jalbert.
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A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, August 30 at 10:00AM at St. Mary’s Church the Parish of St. Martin of Tours in Lakeville, CT.
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A burial will be on Wednesday, September 4 at 10:00AM at St. Charles Cemetery in Farmingdale, Long Island.
Memorial Contributions can be made to The Little Guild, 285 Sharon Goshen Turnpike in West Cornwall, CT 06796.
Barbara Garside
NORFOLK – Barbara Lawrence Garside, 89, died at her home in Norfolk on July 26, 2024.
Kerry – as she was known to all – was born in 1935 in New York City to Barbara Childs Lawrence and James Freeman Lawrence.
The first of six children, Kerry attended Chapin School and graduated from The Foxcroft School. She went on to graduate from Smith College, and continued to Harvard to receive a Masters in Teaching. She taught at The Elizabeth Morrow School in New Jersey, and The Potomac School in Virginia.
She married Grenville Garside in 1961. Moving to Washington DC in 1968, they lived there for the next 30 years. During that time she raised her three children – Elizabeth, Jonathan and Alexander – and served on several boards.
She devoted 11 years of service to Sheridan School, culminating in leading the board. In 1983 she was recognized for this work by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, the only elementary-school volunteer so honored. She also served on the board of Foxcroft School and as a member of the Parents Council of Washington, a nonprofit addressing problems confronting adolescents. In later D.C. years, she trained as a tutor and worked at Episcopal High School in Virginia teaching study skills and Scholastic Aptitude Test preparation. Kerry and Gren moved full-time to Norfolk in 1998.
Kerry is survived by her three children and their spouses: Betsy Garside and Stephen Warren, Jon and Shauna Garside, and Zang Garside and Nicole Outsen; and her four grandchildren: Charlie, Henry, Finn and Kaya Garside. She is also survived by her siblings Susannah Lawrence Wood and Starling Lawrence, and was predeceased by her husband Gren Garside, sister Jane Lawrence Mali, and brothers Peter and Vint Lawrence.
A memorial service will be held at the Church of Christ Congregational in Norfolk on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. All other services are private.
In lieu of flowers, if you would like to make a donation in Kerry’s memory please support the Norfolk Volunteer Ambulance, P.O. Box 399, Norfolk, Connecticut 06058.
Roderick Perkins
NORFOLK - Roderick James Perkins died quietly at home at “The Frog”, in Norfolk, Conn. on Monday, May 6, 2024.
Rod was born February 17, 1943 in Norfolk, the son of Thelma Brown Perkins and James Freeman Perkins.
He is survived by daughters Barbara J. Perkins and Heather Brooke Perkins, grandsons, Jonas Roderick and Benjamin George, niece, Alyssa, step-daughter, Ashley Brunn, and foster brother Richard Patterson.
He is predeceased by his parents, sisters Phylis, Elinore, and Barbara, and two foster brothers Kenneth Reynolds and Gerald Patterson.
As you may remember Rod Perkins was a real sharp dresser. Yes, he accomplished many other things in his life, but his sartorial choices cannot be overstated.
Was it the boy scout uniforms worn from local troop meetings all the way to the Boy Scout Jamboree in Valley Forge, PA in 1957, or baseball and basketball uniforms for the Norfolk Center School, the Town of Norfolk team, Gilbert (where he attended before the construction of the new regional high school) and NWR7 (where he was in the first graduating class, and inducted into their Athletic Hall of Fame), perhaps it was the barbershop quartet costumes, or those from the famed minstrel shows in the Norfolk Village Hall or busking with his Jazz quartet.
Perhaps it was donning the colors of Champlain College where he earned an A.A. while on an athletic scholarship. Or maybe it was the varsity soccer uniform or all the fraternity garb he wore as brother of Sigma Phi Epsilon while at Tennessee Wesleyan University. It could have come from donning a cap and gown after earning his M.S. from University of Hartford. Or even his time as a teacher and tennis coach at Bulkeley High School in Hartford.
Maybe it evolved from his hobbies and the outfits needed for working on his “old Mercedes” or “the Healey”, running (including the NY and Boston Marathons and founding the Norfolk Memorial Day 5 Mile Road Race), triathlons, cruising on his full dressed Harley, playing golf and tennis at his beloved Norfolk Country Club and for a time, Shuttle Meadow CC and the Madison Beach Club.
It might even have been a response to having to wear a suit and tie for 40 years as a commercial banker for CBT, New Britian National Bank, Fleet, and finally Guilford Savings Bank.
One thing is for sure, it didn’t come from the countless hours he spent on boards, committees, associations and foundations (including the founding of the Norfolk Connecticut Childrens Foundation) as there was no uniform or costume necessary, other than rolled up sleeves, a yellow legal pad, a sharp pencil and a willingness to get down to business on behalf of children, the aging, “the club”, and various communities and Chambers of Commerce.
In true Rod fashion there won’t be a funeral, but instead a party. Two actually. One at the Norfolk Country Club on Sunday, July 21, and one at the Norfolk Pub on Sunday August 11, 3-5pm. Guests are kindly asked not to wear black. But instead to don your favorite Plus Fours or plaid or argyle or Tennis whites (or anything else you deem appropriate).
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Norfolk Connecticut Children's Foundation.
Burial will be a private family service.
Donald Blodgett Jr.
SHARON - Donald R. Blodgett Jr., 77, of Sharon, CT, passed away July 31, 2024 at Sharon Healthcare Center with his loving wife by his side, Lisa M. Blodgett.
He served in the Untied States Marine Corp. for 7 years during the Vietnam War. During that time he was an Amphibious Tractor driver. He received 2 Purple Hearts and 2 Bronze Stars with Combat V.
He was a cement mixer/dump truck driver at Amenia Sand & Gravel for 20 plus years.
Besides his wife Lisa, Donald is survived by his sister Donna Blodgett, one daughter Lori Fredenberg of East Canaan, and two sons Shannon Blodgett of North Canaan and Dustin Farnum of Sheffield, MA. He is also survived by five grandchildren and one great granddaughter as well as several nieces and nephews.
Donald is predeceased by his son DG, his mother Rita Blodgett and brother Joseph Blodgett.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 10 at 11:00a.m. at the Congregational Church in Sharon. Immediately following the service there will be a coffee hour in the back of the Church.
Burial will be private at a later date.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Sharon Fire Department & Ambulance at PO Box 357, Sharon, CT 06069.
Kevin O’Connor
NORFOLK - Kevin Michael O’Connor, born September 21, 1936, left us to join his family and friends in Heaven on July 5, 2024.
Kevin enjoyed his entire life in his beloved town of Norfolk.
While still in Gilbert High School, age 17, he began working at the drugstore in town. Kevin stayed and ran the store into his 70’s. He followed the store’s evolution from drugstore to general store to a convenience store and throughout all those transitions,
he remained a fixture for well over 50 years. From making ice cream sundaes to keeping track of everyone’s needs, running the pharmacy and answering 911 dispatch calls, Kevin was always on the job, and always willing to help.
Kevin was the Norfolk Town Crier. Some of Kevin’s many volunteer roles included, Norfolk Volunteer Fire Department, Democratic Town Committee, Democratic Registrar of Voters,
Usher at Immaculate Conception Church and Lyons Club member.
Kevin loved attending Yale Music School concerts and opera screenings and housed music students every summer.
In later years, he had fun chauffeuring friends and neighbors to airports and sporting events. He especially loved dining out at local restaurants, and he looked forward to summer vacations at Bantam Lake. Mostly he liked to laugh and tell jokes while visiting with friends at the store.
Kevin is predeceased by his parents, Winifred (Neary) and Edward O’Connor and his 8 brothers and 3 sisters, Father John, Timothy (Diane), Edward (Catherine), Thomas (Muriel), Dr. Jeremiah (Nancy), Francis (Mary Ellen), James (Edith), Patrick (Fran), Katherine (James Henebry), Margaret (George Zecher) and Mary (Stedman Dowd). Kevin is survived by 31 loving nephews and nieces and their families, and a host of long- time friends who will miss him very much.
The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Litchfield Woods for their kindness and care for Kevin.
A mass of Christian burial will be held on August 16th at 11 a.m. at St. Martins of Tours Church of the Immaculate Conception, 4 North Street, Norfolk.
Barbara Moeckel
CANAAN – Barbara J. Moeckel, 91, of Canaan, CT passed away peacefully on June 27, 2024, after a brief illness.
Barbara was born August 27, 1932, in Williamsport, PA, the eldest daughter of Chester and Lela (Smith) Burtnett, and grew up in Naugatuck, CT. A graduate of Naugatuck High School, Barbara received her bachelor’s degree in 1954 from Danbury State Teachers College (now Western Connecticut State University).
Barbara married her high school sweetheart Kenneth A. Moeckel on December 21, 1952. In 1985 Barbara and Ken moved to Norfolk, CT where she became an active member of the Church of Christ, Congregational and a volunteer at the Norfolk Library.
Music was Barbara’s lifelong passion. She learned to play the piano as a child, and later became known locally for her talents as a soprano soloist. While studying music and education in college, she also performed in musical theater including a role as Ado Annie in the musical Oklahoma.
After receiving her college degree Barbara taught music in the Naugatuck elementary schools. She left classroom teaching while her children were growing up but continued to enrich the lives of many local children by teaching piano lessons from her home. She returned to elementary school music education in the 1970’s, teaching in the Naugatuck school district until her retirement in 1980’s.
As well as teaching music, Barbara was a soloist with church and community choirs, directed church choirs, played piano as a volunteer at the Geer Village nursing home and even started a singing group at Geer Village Lodge once she became a resident there in 2022.
Barbara also was an avid gardener, devoting much time and energy to her extensive gardens in Norfolk. An additional avocation was a creative writing group of which she was an active and enthusiastic participant. In her spare time, she would sew and embroider baby booties to give to expectant grandparents at Geer.
Barbara was predeceased by her husband, who passed away in 2017. She is survived by daughters Deborah and Lisa, a son Kurt and daughter-in-law Deborah; three grandchildren: Jacob, Jamie, and Joshua; and siblings Glenda LePage, Judith Lambeth, and Janice Strollo (husband Arnold).
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at 1:00 PM at the Church of Christ Congregational, 12 Litchfield Rd, Norfolk Historic District, CT 06058.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Covenant House, a charity that provides love, shelter and hope to young people facing homelessness.
John Peterson
SHARON - John Melvin Peterson passed away peacefully on July 26, 2024, in his home in Sharon with his wife, Ruby and daughters, by his side. He was 87 years old.
John “Pete”, son of the late Melvin and Marie (Aakjar) Peterson, was born in Sharon and attended Housatonic Valley Regional High School, where he enjoyed spending time with President Lincoln in the “smokers gulch”, working on his cars, hunting and fishing. Upon graduation from high school in 1955 Pete joined the Air Force and served 3 years as an Airman Second Class.
With a love of the outdoors Pete spent many happy hours on the golf course. He was a proud founding member of the golf association ROBOTS (Retired old bastards on tour). In later years, as they travelled, Pete always found time to play 18 holes while Ruby found a beach to walk. Another shared joy was travelling in the 1956 Chevy Peter restored for Ruby, a reminder of their dating days. The cherry red Chevy always stood out with Pete and Ruby flipping a coin for driving rights for the day!
Pete was a proud Boy Scout and served as a troop leader for many years. He shared his love of the outdoors and camping with his Scout troops and his daughters Lynn and Lesa.
Following in the footsteps of his father, Melvin Peterson, John “Pete” was a member of the Masonic Lodge of Sharon and served as a Master Mason.
Pete could always be relied upon to lend a hand with car repairs, building custom golf clubs and construction projects. His career ranged from time in the automotive industry, serving as a service manager for Ford, founding a general contracting company and in his later years –custom specialty millwork which he often described as a labor of love.
Pete is survived by his wife Ruby, daughter Lynn Kent and her husband David, daughter Lesa Tennant and her husband Michael, and granddaughters Laura and Jessica.
In lieu of flowers, donations for the Ambulance Fund - Sharon Fire Department, PO Box 357 Sharon, CT 06069 would be appreciated. The family would like to express their overwhelming gratitude to the Ambulance crew of the Sharon Fire Department for their support. Special gratitude and appreciation to Linda and Peter Blasini who provided for every need imaginable for Pete and Ruby on this journey.
There will be no services, as Pete preferred seeing all of you while he was alive – he chuckled as he told us that – so smile when you remember Pete because you were part of his wonderful life.
Juan Vanicky
CORNWALL - Juan Vanicky aka Julius, 22, of Ballyhack Road, passed away on July 17th, 2024, at his family home. He was the beloved son of James and Patricia, and brother of Samihr, Efraim and Jenna.
Juan was born November 22nd, 2001 in Belém, Brazil.
Juan graduated from Housatonic Valley Regional High School in 2020.
He loved nature, philosophy, science, and finances, and was incredibly studious when it came to the things he was interested in. He was passionate about archery and his bow and arrow, video games, anime, and Dungeons and Dragons. He loved to bodybuild and greatly enjoyed his workout routine, and liked using his voice for singing and recording voice overs.
His favorite book was “Meditations”, by Emperor Marcus Aurelius, and he was a devout believer in the word of God.
He will be remembered by his beautiful smile and the positive effect it had on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him both personally and professionally. He lived for 90 seasons.
He is survived by his loving family. His mother and father, James and Patricia, his siblings Samihr, Efraim and Jenna, his grandmother Margaret, and his aunt and uncle, Iris and Manuel.
A memorial service will be held at the Canaan Seventh-day Adventist Church on Saturday, July 27th, at 3:00 p.m. All other services are private.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Canaan Seventh-day Adventist Church, 7 Sand Rd., Canaan, CT 06018.
May he rest in peace.
Leslie Connery
KENT - Always with a ready smile, Leslie Guy Connery loved to meet, work with, and help people from all walks of life, especially those in need. This was her focus as a wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and volunteer. Community-oriented and pragmatic, with seemingly boundless energy even into her 90’s, she thrived on serving others.
Born on December 23, 1928, Leslie grew up in Binghamton, New York, in a strongly knit community of family and friends. From this deeply rooted childhood, she looked forward to adventures in the wider world. While studying at Radcliffe College, she majored in international relations with the goal of becoming a diplomat. This was excellent preparation for the life she would soon begin to lead after meeting, and then marrying, her college sweetheart and aspiring journalist, Donald S. Connery.
Just seven years later, in 1957, Don became a foreign correspondent for Time and Life magazines, and thus they began twelve whirlwind years of extensive travel and extraordinary experiences, with four children in tow, including New Delhi (1957 to 1960), Tokyo (1960 to 1962), Moscow (briefly in 1962), and London (1962 to 1968). Leslie experienced India coming into its own after centuries of colonial rule; Japan recovering from the devastation of World War II; Moscow during the Cuban Missile Crisis; and Great Britain during the time of The Beatles and swinging London. Leslie managed the household and assisted Don in his work, serving as his sounding board, advisor, and editor, making it possible for him to focus on his career and travel widely and constantly. In 1965, with all her children in school, she began three years of volunteer work with autistic children as part of a British National Health Service pilot project.
In 1968, Leslie and Don (now a freelance writer and author) settled permanently in a historic farmhouse in the small rural town of Kent, Connecticut. Leslie earned an M.A. in Special Education at Southern Connecticut College and became a state-certified teacher and the family’s primary breadwinner in 1971, when she began her 40+ year career as a special education teacher. She taught for 26 years in local public schools, helping students ages four to 16 with physical, mental, or psychological learning challenges. After retiring in 1997, she continued as a substitute teacher and then took a job as a learning skills teacher at a nearby private boarding school in 2001. She tried retiring again in 2009 but couldn’t resist signing up as a volunteer teacher in the Kent Center School’s new program for autistic children in 2010.
Wanting to do more and inspired by the remarkable Kent volunteer firefighters who saved the Connery home from destruction in a January 1969 fire, Leslie decided to join the newly formed Kent ambulance squad in 1974. She became a certified emergency medical technician; however, the all-male fire department was reluctant to accept females and insisted that she first attend fire school and become a certified firefighter. Always inspired by a challenge, Leslie soon went on to become the Kent Fire Department’s first female firefighter and EMT. Thus began her 36 years of volunteer work in emergency services. As a certified EMT, she responded at any time of the day or night to as many calls as she could manage, coming to the aid of hundreds of people and helping save numerous lives. In addition, she served as chair of the regional board responsible for EMT education and training and, from 1996 to 1999, as ambulance chief. In 1999, she received a Distinguished Achievement Award from the Connecticut Emergency Medical Services Councils. Leslie finally retired as an EMT in 2010 at the age of 82, likely as the oldest EMT in Connecticut at the time.
Leslie was also a member, volunteer, and choir singer in the Kent Congregational Church for over four decades. On the personal front, she loved horseback riding on local trails; knitting and sewing to create gifts for family and friends; watching Red Sox games and tennis matches; and, into her late 80s, international vacation travel with Don. Always enthusiastic and gracious hosts and devoted parents and grandparents, Leslie and Don welcomed many guests and enjoyed frequent visits from their children, grandchildren, and great-grandson, who loved spending time at the Kent family home. Leslie’s passion for EMT work inspired several of her children and grandchildren, who volunteer or work in emergency services and related fields. Almost to the end, thanks to grandson Justin, Leslie had a scanner nearby so she could stay abreast of ongoing emergency activities in Connecticut.
Leslie passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 11 at 95 years. She is survived by her four children (Jan Connery, Eric Connery, Julie Connery-Smith, and Carol Connery), eight grandchildren (Marc, Jacob, Tyffany, Sean, Lucas, Justin, Kyle, Stuart), great-grandson (Brayden), brother (Peter Guy), sister-in-law (Barbara Guy), daughter-in-law (Jane Connery), and son-in-law (Keith Smith).
The Connery family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care and support that BrightStar Care staff and VITAS staff provided to Leslie during her final year.
A memorial service followed by a reception will be held on September 21, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Congregational Church of Kent, 97 North Main Street, Kent CT.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kent Volunteer Fire Department Inc., 28 Maple St, Kent, CT 06757.
Sarah Picton
SALISBURY - Sarah (Cooke) Picton, age 76, of Salisbury, CT, died June 17, 2024 at Geer Nursing and Rehab Center in Canaan, CT of complications from Alzheimer’s Disease. Sarah and her loving husband, Jim Picton, had fourteen golden years together.
Sarah Herritage Cooke (she dropped “Herritage when she married, and yes, they did spell it with two “r”s) was born in Richmond, VA on October 2, 1947, the youngest of four siblings to the late Richard Caswell Cooke and Caroline Myers, both of Richmond.
She was predeceased by her oldest sibling, Caroline, and Caroline’s husband, William Dinsmore Holland, both of Cookeville, TN.
She is survived by her brother, Richard Caswell (“Caswell”) Cooke, Jr. and his wife, Mary Davis Cooke, both of Lawrenceville, NJ; also her sister Anne Gordon Cooke of Richmond. Anne’s husband, Rev. Charles Daniel Curran, Jr., predeceased her.
Sarah also leaves many devoted nieces and nephews, one of whom, Lawrence Curran, predeceased her. Sarah had no children of her own, but two loving godsons, Peter Boyd of Charles City, VA, the son of Sarah’s longtime friends Julie and Randy Boyd, and Gordon Cooke of Derry, NH, the youngest son of brother Caswell.
It should also be said here that there was not a better-loved pair of cousins either side of the Mason-Dixon Line than Willson Craigie (yes, two “L”s) and his wife, Susan Craigie, both of Richmond, whose friendship with Sarah and husband Jim figured prominently in their lives and grew deeper over the years.
In fact, as children, Sarah, Willson, and sister Anne would spend part of each summer together at Cricket Hill, the rural cabin, pond, and stream retreat father Dick fashioned for the family. Many stories emanate from that time, which must have made a deep impression on Sarah who, when she finally began to loosen her grip on reality, would often tell visitors that she lived at Cricket Hill still- which, in a way, must have been true. On Sundays when it didn’t rain (it never did, in the lore), Dick would conduct outdoor services under the weeping cedar, mostly consisting of hymns sung a capella.
Although not religious in later life, Sarah grew up attending Grace and Holy Trinity Episcopal, a church her great-grandfather helped to found in the 19th century. She attended St. Catherine’s, an Episcopal Diocesan school beginning in 6th grade, graduating 12th grade in 1965. Hollins College followed, a female-only school at the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where Sarah thrived (she and her schoolmates were known as “Hollie Collie Dollies”), earning a bachelor’s degree in art history with a minor in math.
At this point, work at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts was available, and although Sarah eventually took a job there, the urge to travel and see more of this country was overwhelming. Sarah struck out for the West. A series of visits over the next few years led her to jobs on a dude ranch in Wyoming, a sojourn in California (think: camping next to an avocado plantation), bartending in Denver, and a job with the Denver Art Museum, organizing fundraising shows and concerts in Larimer Square. She took credit for, among other things, introducing Bluegrass to the country music fans there when she organized a concert with Hot Rize, a group still heard on the radio today.
Though she loved the clear skies and surrounding natural beauty of Colorado and Wyoming, Sarah yearned to be closer to the New York art world, and so moved to New York, taking an apartment next to an old school friend in a third floor walk-up in hell’s kitchen (as she liked to remind us). Sarah was an artist, working in pencil, ink, and watercolor. She sketched every day, drawing from photographs and from life. In New York, she designed a line of greeting cards and sold them to Caspari, Inc. Many years later, after retirement, Sarah re-started her card business, marketing her work to local shops. But in New York, the card business didn’t cover all the bills, so Sarah found work at the Betty Parsons Gallery. After working at the Parsons gallery, Sarah was offered, and quickly took, a job as office manager and general jobber for Jasper Johns.
The relationship with her employer and the artists and “buzz” surrounding him was so successful that Sarah settled into Manhattan for good, moving to CT only after Johns did. They were both fond of each other; Sarah stayed on for about 28 years, retiring finally to spend more time with husband Jim who, as one of the contractors who took care of the Johns campus, had to answer to Sarah’s ironclad rule before proceeding with any work, and fell in love with the boss in the process. Three years after first husband Bill’s death, Sarah allowed Jim into her life. They were subsequently married, in 2014. Visits to Cape Cod and to Maine, and a trip to Ireland to celebrate Sarah’s seventieth birthday, were among the pleasures of retirement, before Alzheimer’s became evident.
A memorial gathering and simple service will be held for Sarah in Salisbury and also Richmond, after summer. Notice will be published so that all who wish may attend these remembrances.
Those who wish to make a charitable contribution in Sarah’s memory may consider the Housatonic Valley Association, a local conservation organization Sarah liked to support: Housatonic Valley Association, 150 Kent Road, PO Box 28, Cornwall Bridge, CT 06754.
Charles Dickey
WEST CORNWALL - Charles Richard Dickey, 88, of West Cornwall, CT passed away peacefully on June 23, 2024, after a short illness. He leaves behind Janine Selendy, his loving partner of 24 years.
Charles, known throughout his life as “Chick,” was a lover of classical music, horseback riding, and French cuisine. Possessed of a lively intelligence and sharp wit, he was an avid reader with a particular interest in World War II and early American history.
He was born in Colon, Panama, on September 4, 1935, the son of then-Lieutenant Joseph Kingsley Dickey and Virginia Marlatt Dickey.
As the son of an active-duty army officer of the era, he quickly moved around from Panama to Plattsburgh Barracks, New York, Tokyo, and San Francisco in the years before World War II. After that, he moved to Edina, Minnesota, Paris and finally Washington, DC, where he graduated from the St Albans School.
After completing his BA at Yale University, he served as an officer in the Marine Corps. He graduated from Columbia University Law School in 1964 with a JD and practiced as an attorney at several law firms, including Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison and Gold, Farrell and Marks and served as General Counsel of Madison Square Garden, in New York City.
A longtime resident of North Salem, NY he moved to West Cornwall, CT in 2021 with Janine and their two West Highland White Terriers, Bramble and Thistle.
Chick is survived by his brother, his five children, their spouses and his eight grandchildren – James Dickey and Chris Bart, Leslie and Sanjay Patel and their daughters, Alisha and India Patel, Keith and Alison Dickey and their daughter Claire Dickey, Kim Dickey and Kirk Ambrose and their children Frederick and Helen Ambrose, Scott and Ilia Dickey and their sons Charles and Alexander Dickey, and Jean and Donald Quaintance and their daughter Keala Quaintance. He is also survived by Janine and her family, Philippe and Bela Selendy and their wives and children. Chick is also survived by his former spouses, Catherine M. F. Randolph and Page Dickey Schell.
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A memorial service is being planned for a later date in Washington, DC.
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Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to The 30 Birds Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to safeguarding the future of a group of 450 Afghans, predominantly schoolgirls, who they have evacuated from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
Thomas Raymond
TORRINGTON - Thomas Raymond, 59, of Migeon Ave., passed away peacefully at home on June 29, 2024 with his wife by his side.
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Thomas was born on November 4, 1964 in Farmington, CT, the son of the late Theodore and Irene (Hackney) Raymond.
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He graduated from Oliver Wolcott Tech. He went on to work several years in the farming industry and at Becton Dickinson as an injection molder. He finished his career in Bicron Electronics as a coil winder/assembler.
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He loved fishing and riding his bicycle.
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He is survived by his wife, Iwona, and children; Sibyl, Jasmin, Daniel, David, Sylvia and Cassandra, as well as his 12 grandchildren and brother Theodore. He was predeceased by his sister Tammy.
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A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, July 9, at 11A.M. at South Norfolk Cemetery, Route 272, Norfolk, CT.
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Memorial contributions can be made to the ALS United CT, 4 Oxford Rd., Milford, CT 06460.
Barbara Whitford
NORFOLK - Barbara Rose (Caul) Whitford passed away after a short battle of cancer on June 24, 2024. She was the wife of the late Clarence O. Whitford.
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Born on August 6th ,1953 in Winsted , CT, she was the daughter of the late Howard and H. Pearl (Schuyler) Caul.
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Barbara spent her whole life in Norfolk. She was a kind and loving woman who loved to read books and chit chat with her family and friends.
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She married her high school sweetheart Clarence on September 11, 1971. Together they raised three children; Keven, Mark and Lisa.
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Barbara spent her entire career of 45 years with New England Miniature Ball Company in Norfolk.
Barbara is survived by her son Keven M. Whitford and wife Patricia of Colebrook, son Mark Whitford of Torrington, and her daughter Lisa S. Gilptric and husband Robert of East Canaan. Her grandchildren Nichole Christinat (husband Brendan),Michael Whitford (wife Emily), and Allison Ford. Great-grandchildren Wesley and Wyatt Christinat and Madison and Mia Whitford along with many brother and sister-in-laws, nieces and nephews and great friends.Besides her and husband she was predeceased by a sister Cynthia P. Crunden.
A celebration of life will be held at the VFW in Canaan; 104 S. Canaan Road (Route 7) on Saturday, July 6th from 1-5PM.
Shelly Klippel
MILLERTON - Shelly Marie (Bishop) Klippel, 56, passed away unexpectedly June 23, 2024. She was the loving wife of Robert L. Klippel (Bobo).
Shelly was born on February 13, 1968 in Plattsburgh, NY to the late Robert J. Bishop and Linda (Maulding) Bishop. She was well known for her unique sense of humor while working at On The Run in Lakeville, CT for over 10 years. The last decade Shelly was the property manager, alongside her husband Bob, for Frank and Maureen Bateman's properties in NY, CT, and MA.
Shelly will always be remembered for her quick wit, huge smile, and generous heart. She loved her family and friends, especially her grandchildren who she doted on.
She is survived by her husband Robert, mother Linda, daughter Alicia Hapeman (Joshua), sons Mathew Powers (Kayla), Robert J Klippel (Lindsay), and Bryan Klippel (Elizabeth), brother Robert Bishop (Stacie), nephew Hunter Bishop(Sierra), mother and father-in-law Herbert and Elizabeth Klippel, sister-in-law Pamela Klippel, brother-in-law William Klippel (Karen), her 7 grandchildren (Noah, Nikolas, Davin, Payton, Chloe, Olivia, and Christopher), her granddog Shiloh, and several nieces and nephews.
Shelly was predeceased by her father Robert, brother Lonny Bishop, and close friend Thomas Stone.
There will be no traditional services, however, there will be a celebration of life on August 10, time to be determined, at the Millerton Firehouse.
Lindsay Waldron
SHARON - Lindsay Maria Waldron passed away unexpectedly on June 22, 2024 while residing in Sharon, CT.
She was born in Poughkeepsie, NY on August 9, 1982. She was the loving mother of Lily Dolan and the loving daughter of Garma Belter Waldron and the late David Waldron. She was the loving sister of the late Gared Waldron.
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Lindsay grew up in Sharon and attended Sharon Center School, Housatonic Valley Regional High School and went on to receive her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Development from Dean College.
Her love of children began as a camp counselor at Camp Sloane in Lakeville. She was also a former assistant teacher with Extras in Salisbury. Her love for children moved her to compose two children’s books. She later worked at Harney & Sons Fine Teas for six years where she enjoyed her job.
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Lindsay loved animals, loved to dance, and share time with family and friends. She was a vibrant gal and had an extraordinarily strong will to overcome many challenges when she was diagnosed with a medical condition 20 years ago. She was a miracle in her mother’s and family’s eyes and hearts.
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Lindsay is survived by her mother Garma Waldron, her daughter Lily Dolan, her sisters Jennifer Waldron and Patti Lewis both of Savannah, Georgia, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends all of whom she loved greatly. She will be deeply missed.
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A memorial service will be held on July 13th at 11:00am at the Sharon Congregational Church.
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In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Sharon Volunteer Ambulance, PO Box 357, Sharon, CT 06069 and to Little Guild of St Frances, 285 Sharon-Goshen Turnpike, West Cornwall, CT 06796
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Eliza Klose
SALISBURY - Eliza Kellogg Klose died on June 12 at Noble Horizons after a long battle with dementia. She
was 83 years old.
Eliza attended Potomac School in McLean, VA, acquiring her love of music both from her conservatory-trained mother, Celina Robbins Kellogg, and also from her Potomac school days with music teacher John Langstaff, with whom she later performed in Spring and Christmas Revels productions in Washington, DC (1974) and Hanover, NH (1982).
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Eliza graduated from Milton Academy in Milton, MA where she was valedictorian of the Class of 1958, and Radcliffe College in Cambridge, MA, earning a BA in English Literature, Summa Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa, 1962.
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After college, Eliza taught English at Bard College in Red Hook, NY, and at schools in Washington DC before marrying Kevin Klose in 1964. As mother of Cornelia (Nina, 1967), Kevin Brennan (Brennan, 1968) and Chandler (1972), she studied towards a Master’s in Early Childhood Education, as well as participating in progressive movements such as early efforts at racial integration and community participation through Columbia Road Children’s Center, the Community Playgroup movement, natural birth, and La Leche League. She taught creative music and movement at Columbia Road and also in the Six School Complex when her children joined one of the 6 schools, Horace Mann.
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When husband Kevin was appointed Moscow Bureau Chief for The Washington Post in 1977- 1981, Eliza learned Russian fluently, and became a guiding light for the family in navigating the challenges life in the USSR. She helped Kevin conduct interviews (he hadn’t learned the language nearly as well) and supported the three kids in attending Soviet schools and learning fluent Russian. Both Eliza and Kevin became fascinated by the Soviet Dissident movement, coming to know and support the families of Dmitri Sakharov and Elena Bonner, Lidia Chukovskaya, Lev Kopelev, Vasily Aksyonov, Vladimir Voinovich, the Donetsk, Ukraine coal miner activist Alexei Nikitin and many others from the Soviet intelligentsia.
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From Moscow, the family moved to Pomfret, Vermont, for two years while Kevin wrote an account of the Soviet dissident movement, and then to Chicago for four, during Kevin’s stint as Midwest & Canada Bureau Chief for the Post. During this time Eliza translated and published works by activist and writer Lidia Chukovskaya, and also taught writing at Midwest Talent Search, Northwestern University’s program for gifted youth.
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Back in Washington DC in 1989, Eliza joined and later became Executive Director of the small non-profit, the Institute for Soviet-American Relations (ISAR). As the Iron Curtain opened, ISAR expanded from public diplomacy efforts as a clearinghouse for Soviet-American civilian exchange to making seed grants to a wide network of NGOs within the former USSR. Under Eliza’s leadership, ISAR distributed over $15m in USAID funding to support citizen environmental groups through nine offices from Moscow to Almaty, Kyiv, Tbilisi and Baku.
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Eliza divorced Kevin in 2006, the same year she retired from ISAR. Three years later she moved to Sharon, CT to marry Harding Bancroft. After retiring from ISAR she sat on the board of the International Crane Foundation, traveling in the Russian and Asian Far East to learn about and support the Foundation’s conservation work to preserve endangered crane populations. In Sharon, besides creating and maintaining an extensive garden, Eliza joined and then co-chaired the Sharon Garden Club, Sharon Women's Club, and volunteered at the Sharon Historical Society. Eliza and Harding travelled extensively, enjoying tours in Europe, Former USSR, Egypt, Jordan, Norwegian fjords, the Galapagos, and glaciers in Tierra del Fuego.
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Eliza battled dementia for eight years; in 2022, she and Harding moved to Noble Horizons. Throughout her battle with dementia, Eliza continued to astound and touch us all with her grace and acceptance of her condition. She received the skilled and devoted care of the team at Noble Horizons. Until her final hours, though she could no longer speak or move her body, she was able to communicate her love and gentle spirit with all who knew her.
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She is mourned by her husband, Harding Bancroft, her children, Nina Klose (London, England); Brennan Klose (Washington, DC); and Chandler Klose (Northampton, MA); eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, as well as four stepchildren, eight step-grandchildren, and many other loving family and friends.
Michael Degreenia
CORNWALL - Michael Degreenia, 62, of Pierce Lane, died June 3, 2024. He was the loving son of the late Melvin and Caleen (Hallack) Degreenia.
Michael was born May 16, 1962 in Sharon.
He was a graduate of Oliver Wolcott High School in Torrington, CT..
For many years he was the manager of the Citgo Service Station in Cornwall Bridge. He also was a lifelong member with the Cornwall Volunteer Fire Department and later served as Fire Police.
He was an avid collector of old movies.
He is survived by an uncle, Allen Degreenia.
All services are private at this time.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Cornwall Volunteer Fire Department.
Douglas Griswold
WINSTED - Douglas Inches Griswold, 95, of Winsted, Connecticut, passed away on May 2, 2024.
Born on November 19, 1928 in Winsted, he was the son of the late John F. Griswold of Winsted, Connecticut and Mary Inches, of Blairgowrie, Scotland.
He was the father of Bonnie Pedersen of Winsted, CT, Katherine Griswold of Norfolk, CT, Geraldine Griswold of Winsted, CT, and James Griswold of Largo, Florida. His former wife and mother of his children, Joan Griswold of Winsted, CT, predeceased him in 2001.
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He was a member of the graduating class of 1947 at The Gilbert School in Winsted, CT and in 1955, received a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture from The University of Connecticut.
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During the Korean War Era, Griswold served as a Corporal in the United States Army at White Sands Proving Ground, Las Cruces, New Mexico specializing in missiles and their maintenance.
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An arborist, entomologist, and chemist, Griswold combined his passion for trees, bugs, and chemicals into careers as a tree surgeon and later as a pesticide controller for the EPA/State of Connecticut. To his dying day, Doug would enthusiastically discuss any of these topics in detail no matter how clueless the listener might be.
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Doug also loved country and bluegrass music. He was often observed on Sunday afternoon, parked on his property on Rugg Brook Road enjoying bluegrass on his car radio where he could get better reception. His daughter’s pet peacock, Pete who was equally enamored of this musical genre, frequently accompanied him.
Doug shared his love of music, nature, animals. and the land with his children all of whom have careers in these arenas.
Services will be privately held.
Memorial donations may be made in Doug’s name to The Winchester Land Trust.
Daniel Gates
SHARON – Daniel Gates, beloved husband of Mary Gates and adored father to Andrew, Emily and Michael, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, May 24.
A forty-five year resident of Sharon, Dan was an avid outdoorsman, a lover of nature, and a dedicated therapist, who believed in the enrichment of one’s life and community through service to others.
Dan was born on August 9, 1948, in Bridgeport, CT, the son of the late Harold and Teresa (Golden) Gates.
He was a graduate of St. Joseph’s High School in Trumbull, CT and Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY.
Dan began his career in special education after receiving a master’s degree from Southern Connecticut State University. He went on to found Self Enrichment Experience (S.E.E.), an outdoor education and adventure program. Through S.E.E., Dan was able to share his love of the outdoors with hundreds of students, leading countless backpacking trips along the Appalachian Trail, canoe trips down the Housatonic, and rock climbing excursions at St. John’s Ledges.
In 1988, Dan received a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy and began his decades long work as a therapist. Therapy was one of his great passions, and he was deeply devoted to his work.
In 1999, Dan and Mary founded the Sharon House Garden Project, converting part of their property to a small organic farm to provide fresh produce to local food banks.
Along with his work, the outdoors, and gardening, Dan’s greatest loves were his children, his farmhouse on Carse Brook, and his German Shepherd, Hector. There was no one and nothing that he loved more than his wife of fifty years, Mary, his “dearie,” whom he truly adored.
He is survived by his wife and three children, as well as his beloved younger sister, Judee Flaws, of Trumbull, along with many in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends, all of whom he loved greatly. He will be very deeply missed.
A memorial service will be held at Trinity Retreat Center in West Cornwall, CT on Friday May 31st at 12pm. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sharon House Garden Project or the Chapel of All Saints West Cornwall, CT.
Ingrid Cenkner
SHARON - Ingrid M. (Lindahl) Cenkner, 96, of Sharon, CT (formerly of Pleasantville, NY) passed away peacefully on February 2, 2024. She was the beloved wife of the late Dr. Stefan J. Cenkner.
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She is survived by her children, Dr. Stefanie Lindahl Shaff (Corey) of Sharon, CT and Nina Tierney (Robert) of Sherborn, MA and three grandchildren.
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Ingrid was born in Stockholm, Sweden and moved to the United States in 1949 as an au pair. She met her husband through a blind date set up by mutual friends and they married six weeks later enjoying a loving marriage for over 50 years. In the early years of their marriage Ingrid earned a degree in x-ray technology and worked alongside her husband in his medical practice. Ingrid and Stefan raised their children in Pocantico Hills, NY.
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Ingrid was known for her caring heart, concern for others and having a strong will. She loved to bake and to sing. Her delicious (and renowned) Swedish cinnamon buns were enthusiastically enjoyed by her family and her many friends.
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Plans for a memorial service are not available at this time.
Memorial donations may be made to an animal rescue shelter of your choice.
R. Thomas Riley
SHARON/KENT — R. Thomas Riley, 85, of Kent Cornwall Rd, Kent CT, passed away on May 14, 2024 at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford. He was the devoted and loving husband of Louise Ryan Riley who survives him.
He was born March 25th, 1939 in Sharon, the son of the late William R. and Violet Kinsman Riley.
Tom graduated from Housatonic Valley Regional High School and began working in the furniture business while raising seven children with his first wife, eventually purchasing the business in 1985. He ran Riley’s Furniture as a successful family business for more than 35 years.
During the years he was raising his family, he was an active member of the church and community. He served on the vestry of the Christ Church Episcopal in Sharon, the Sharon Center School Parent Teacher Association, the Sharon Volunteer Fire Department and the Lion’s Club.
Tom truly lived life to the fullest and was beloved by so many. He had a most warm and welcoming smile and the uncanny ability to bring many people into his family, becoming a great friend and often a second father to ones too numerous to list.
Tom was a very active person equally at home tending his garden, playing golf or traveling abroad with his beloved Louise, her sisters and friends. Tom was especially known for his generosity and his kind and loving nature. He never missed a chance to visit loved ones near and far, especially those in hospital. He was proud of all of his children and grandchildren who each experienced his unconditional love.
By joining in the weekly rotation driving to Torrington to pick up food from the Big Y, he encouraged, supported and appreciated his wife’s efforts at the Fishes and Loaves Food Pantry. He will always be remembered for the legendary large family dinners that he hosted with effortless grace.
He is survived by all seven children, Pamela Moore (Patrick), Brian Riley (Cathy), Cynthia Dunleavy (David), Lisa Gravallese (John), Jennifer Riley (Kelly), Jeffrey Riley (Lori) and Gregory Riley, sixteen grandchildren: Brandon Moore, Chad Moore, Alyssa Harper (Jeffrey), Alexander Dunleavy (Melina), Jordan Dunleavy (Jennifer), Carly Previte (Joseph), Matthew Gravallese, Morgan Riley, Connor Riley, Cady Bloodgood (Eugene), Megan Riley (Taylor), Mackenzie Riley (Kyle), Miranda Riley, Hunter Riley, Logan Riley, Parker Riley, eleven great-grandchildren: Colin, Noelle, Brady, Emma, Wyatt, Kimberly, Sage, Ada, Elena, Aidan, and Colby. Of Tom’s eleven siblings; Barbara, David, Gerald, Judith and Donna survive him while Donald, Richard, Jack, Lawrence and William predeceased him.
A wake will be held at Kenny Funeral Home on Tuesday May 21, from 4-7 pm.
A funeral service will be held at St. Bridget’s Church in Sharon on Wednesday May 22, at 11:00am. Reception to follow.
Memorial contributions may be sent to the Sharon, Cornwall or Kent (Volunteer) Fire and Ambulance. P.O. Box 357, Sharon, CT 06069.
Harvey Hayden, VMD
SHARON - Cherished veterinarian, loving husband of Kathryn Heacox Hayden, and valued community member for over 60 years, Harvey Hayden, VMD, passed peacefully May 10, 2024, surrounded by his devoted family.
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Dr. Hayden was born December 16, 1932, in Windsor, Connecticut, to Frances Harvey and Haskell Hayden.
His amazing memory of his experiences and knowledge will be sorely missed. His genealogy traced his grandparents going back some 10+ generations, the family’s arrival in Massachusetts in 1630, and their prior lineage in England. He was a descendant of William Hayden of the Pequot War and founder of Hayden Station, Connecticut, who was, in turn, a descendant of the order of the knights who settled Heydon in Norfolk, also known as Stinton, England.
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A graduate of Suffield High, he attended three years at the School of Agriculture, University of Connecticut. He then attended and graduated from the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, earning his Veterinariae Medicinae Doctoris.
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After graduation, he entered the U.S. Air Force as rank of Second Lieutenant, discharged two years later as Captain.
Upon marrying Myrtle Maddox Hayden, they moved to Sharon where he opened the Sharon Veterinary Clinic and actively cared for any and all pets (especially cows), at all hours, for 62 years. He never turned away an animal in need.
He was a member of the Sharon Fire Department and served as the department’s Lieutenant for many years; was a member of Taghhannuck Grange #100; an esteemed member of Sharon Inland Wetlands & Watercourse Commission; and an active member of the Sharon Congregational Church.
On February 25, 2017, Dr. Hayden married Kathryn Heacox, and her children joyfully welcomed Harvey as their new father, “Pops.”
Dr. Hayden is survived by his wife, Kathryn; stepchildren Edward Heacox, Jr. (Lynn), Karen Heacox (Arthur), Mary Heacox Ryan (Peter); Joseph (Marjorie); David; Christopher (Josie); step-grandchildren Benjamin Heacox, Ryan Heacox (Mary), Tyler Heacox, and Kathryn Heacox; step-great-grandson Thomas Heacox; nephews Richard, Daniel (Sue), Robert Carter; and the Maddox family.
His first wife, Myrtle Maddox Hayden, predeceased him on May 21, 2013, and his younger sister, Alice G. Hayden, on September 16, 2023.
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Calling hours are May 18, 2024, 3:00pm-6:00pm. Burial will be private. A memorial service date will be shared.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Sharon Fire Department or Sharon Ambulance, both P.O. Box 357, Sharon, CT 06069.
Marilyn Mullins
SHARON - Marilyn “Honey” Syriac Mullins, of Sharon, CT, died April 6th, 2024, at Vassar Brothers Hospital in Poughkeepsie, NY, due to complications from a fall. She was one month shy of her 91st birthday and was greatly enjoying her life.
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Born on May 4th, 1933 to Amelia Pogel Syriac and Alfred Edmund Syriac of Westfield, MA, she was also the loving stepdaughter of Roland Syriac, and was the youngest of five children. She was predeceased by her brother, Franklin (Bob) Syriac, her sisters Mildred Gorham Benjamin, Alfreda Benz, and Shirley Arnold, as well as her husband Francis Edward Mullins.
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After graduating from Westfield High School, class of 1951, Marilyn attended the Charles F. Gaugh School of Business. She graduated with honors and became a legal secretary. In Springfield, MA she worked at the law firm of Allen, Yerrel, Appleton and Thompson as Horace Allen’s secretary.
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In 1959, she married the illustrator Frank Mullins at Saint Michael’s Cathedral in Springfield, MA. The couple moved to Manhattan, where they lived happily for several years. There she became the secretary of R. Birdell Bixby, close associate of Governors Thomas E. Dewey and Nelson Rockefeller, at the law firm of Dewey, Ballantine, Bushby, Palmer and Wood.
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After the birth of their second child, Marilyn moved with Frank and his elderly father from the city to the country so their kids might enjoy the same kind of childhood that she’d had. Visits with friends in the Lime Rock area of CT eventually led Marilyn to her beloved house in Sharon, where she raised her three children and lived her life for 57 years.
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In Sharon, she and Frank became involved with the Sharon Creative Arts Foundation (SCAF, now the Sharon Playhouse). Marilyn led Brownie Troop 190 and volunteered at the Sharon Hospital and Sharon Audubon Center, as well as working various secretarial jobs including office manager at Skip Barber Racing School and at Uberti, USA. She also taught piano lessons. She put her children through local schools public and private, sent her daughter to college, and managed to hold on to her home following the death of her young husband from cancer in 1978.
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Marilyn was a musician. She loved classical music and began playing the piano at the age of 3. She started her professional music career playing for a dance school while in her early teens. In the late 1970’s she learned to play the organ from local legend Al Sly and worked as an organist in churches all over the region, up until the Covid-19 pandemic. She most enjoyed playing pipe organs and she dearly loved her choirs.
In 1995, Marilyn graduated from the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy and began a decades-long career as a massage therapist, working at the Interlaken Inn and volunteering for Hospice care. She believed in the healing power of loving touch.
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Marilyn leaves behind her children: Christopher, Jonathan and Patricia Mullins, and a dear daughter-in-law, Michelle Shipp; five grandchildren: David Parker Mullins, Nakaia Kristof, Frank, Sam and Felix Mullins, and her beloved nephews and nieces, and many dear friends. She also leaves her beloved cats, Piper and Cooper. Marilyn was “Second Mom” to many of her children’s friends. She was the dear friend, confidante and champion of her children and many others and will be very deeply missed.
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Marilyn and Patty had planned to travel to see the total eclipse of the sun on April 8th. In honor and memory of her, Patty, Jon, Chris and Michelle made the drive the day after her death and watched the full eclipse from the shore of Lake Ontario.
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A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be held in CT at a date to be determined. The family may be contacted at marilynmullins24@gmail.com. We welcome your stories and memories of Marilyn.
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The family wishes to thank mom’s dear helper, Nora Mullen, Chore Service, and the Sharon Ambulance Squad, as well as the doctors and nurses at Sharon Hospital ER and Vassar Brothers ICU.
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In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Core Service or The Little Guild animal shelter in Cornwall, CT.
Audrey Garay
SHARON - Audrey Garay, 73, of Sharon, CT passed away Wednesday, April 24,2024, peacefully at home after a brief illness.
She was born on December 20th, 1950. Audrey spent her life as a dedicated caregiver and worked as a CNA at Sharon Hospital for many years.
She was known by everyone in town for her knack for mischief that brought laughter to all for decades. Her pranks were legendary, and her antics brought smiles to faces young and old. She knew how to turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary adventure, whether she was harassing her granddaughters at work, driving throughout the northwest corner looking for UFOs, or simply sporting some fake teeth and a Halloween mask at the local gas station. Yet amidst the laughter, Audrey was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Her love knew no bounds, and her kindness touched the lives of all who crossed her path.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and cherished memories that will forever be etched in our hearts.
She enjoyed playing bingo, and spending time with her sister and her close friends, Sebby and Joe Amato.
Audrey is survived by her loving husband of 52 years, Joseph Garay, her son, Scott Garay, two daughters, Trisha Bailey and Monica Garay, several grandchildren and great grandchildren, and her four siblings, Robert, Karen, Gary, and Eugene Tuthill.
Audrey is predeceased by her brother Kevin Tuthill.
Per Audrey's request there will be no funeral service held.
Robert Pallone
NORFOLK – Robert J. Pallone, 69, of Perkins St. passed away April 12, 2024 at St. Vincent Medical Center. He was a loving, eccentric CPA. He was kind and compassonate, if you ever needed anything Bob would be right there. He touched many lives and even saved one.
Bob was born February 5, 1955 in Torrington. The son of the late Joesph and Elizabeth Pallone.
Bob graduated from Babson College, one of the most prestigious Accounting Schools out there.
He built his own C.P.A. practice himself in 1987. He was an accurate and accountable accountant. He would always say during tax season, that taxes are an art not a science. He took time to teach his employees his art of taxes.
Bob was also a landlord and owner of the Royal Arcanum, where he met his long-time friend of over 20 years, Micheal Dinsmore. The two of them together experienced many great times. They would always be laughing and singing some of their favorite songs. Bob would always say that the Royal Arcanum was his baby. He loved that building and took great care of it. During his time at the Royal Arcanum and owing his business he met a lucky lady, Melissa Baresi. Little did they both know that Robert and Melissa would become the best of friends and even turn into family. Melissa is considered to be Bob’s Girl. Bob is the reason Melissa has such a great life today.
After retirement, another one of Bob’s lifelong friends, Dana Devereux, was there to help Bob get accustomed to retirement. Retirement can be scary especially to a person that worked all his life. It was during this time that Bob was diagnosed with cancer again. Dana was there to lend a helping hand while Bob had to go through chemo.
Bob was truly a remarkable man and was blessed to have such great friends like Micheal, Melissa and Dana. He would always say if you can count the number of friends you have on one hand then you truly made it. Made it Bob did.
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday April 17th, 2024 at 2:00PM at the Pond Town Cemetery in Norfolk, CT.
He will be buried next to his mom and dad where he always wanted to be.
Any memorial donations may be made to the ASPCA. Bob was an animal lover and had many cats throughout his life.
Kathleen “Kitty” McCabe
WASHINGTON DEPOT, CT - Kathleen “Kitty” McCabe, 69 of Brinsmade Road, passed away on March 29, 2024 at her home.
Kitty was born March 17, 1955 in Cleveland, Ohio to Dr. Edward B. McCabe and Mary Hunt McCabe. She lived in Cleveland for twelve years, then in Oklahoma City for a short time until the family settled in Norfolk, Connecticut in 1968.
Kitty graduated from Northwestern Regional 7 in Winsted, CT. After a year at Newton College of the Sacred Heart in Massachusetts, she transferred to Western Connecticut State University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
In 1979 she married Ziad Shuman and moved to Beirut, Lebanon where she became a school nurse and taught health classes. She and her son, Tarek moved back to CT where she worked as a nurse in family practices in New Milford for over 30 years.
Kitty dedicated her career and much of her free time to taking care of other people. She loved talking to and getting to know her patients and their families. She enjoyed giving personalized gifts, cooking new recipes to share, and sending thoughtful greeting cards for every occasion.
Kitty was proud of her Irish heritage and particularly enjoyed celebrating her birthday on St. Patrick’s day. She laughed easily and was always joking, concocting silly elaborate skits to mark family milestone birthdays. Kitty spent the last few years happily retired, enjoying adventures with friends and family, reading, and discovering local cultural events. Whether it was getting lunch with the gals, attending outdoor mass at the Shrine of Lourdes Grotto in Litchfield, or soaking in a sunset over Great Pond in Maine, Kitty delighted in life’s little moments. Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren.
Kitty is survived by her son Tarek Shuman and daughter-in-law Ashley Shuman, her two grandchildren Lucy and Gabriel, siblings Ed McCabe (Beverly), William McCabe, Sue Westmoreland, Mary Pat Fredericksen (Skip), and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother Michael. Kitty also leaves behind an abundance of former patients, colleagues, and friends in the community, all of whom meant so much to her. She will be remembered and missed for her infectious energy, playful spirit, and compassionate heart.
A funeral mass, graveside service, and reception will be held at the Immaculate Conception Church at 4 North St. Norfolk, CT on Friday April 5, 2024 at 10:00 am.
Memorial contributions can be made in Kitty’s honor to Open Door Soup Kitchen of Winsted at stocktheshelvesnwct.org or Montfort Missionaries in Litchfield at shrinect.org.
John L. Frenkel
SALISBURY – John L. Frenkel of Cobble Road passed away on Monday, March 25th at Nobel Horizons.
He was the loving brother of Emily Soell who makes her home in Sharon.
John was born on December 30th, 1941, in New York City, the son of the late George and Beatrice Frenkel.
He graduated from Colorado College in Colorado Springs.
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John was a self-taught artist, painting animals, landscapes, and people he knew and loved.
He was a five-year student of art with Pieter Lefferts at North Light Arts Center in Amenia.
As a resident of Nobel Horizons for upwards of 25 years, he knew everyone who worked and lived there and was beloved by all.
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In addition to his sister, he is survived by a niece, Wendy C. Logan, and a great nephew, James Porricelli.
A memorial service will be held at Nobel Horizons later in the spring.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Sharon Playhouse in Sharon, CT.
Richard Allen
SHARON - Richard D. Allen, 80, of Farmington, CT, passed away March 26, 2024, at Sharon Health Care Center in Sharon, CT.
Richard, the son of Margaret E. (Felth) Fredin and Anthony Parone, was born on February 6, 1944 in Hartford, CT. Raised by his loving mom, Margaret, and step father, Everett T. Fredin, Richard spent his formative years in the small town of West Hartford, celebrating the Swedish traditions of his family, enjoying coffee and pastry and the splendor of his mom's lemon meringue pie.
Richard graduated from Conard High School in West Hartford, CT where he was captain of the football team, and where he met and married his high school sweetheart Sandra M. (Valine) Sedorak. Richard greatly enjoyed playing, coaching and watching football and lacrosse. He graduated from Central Connecticut State University as an English major.
His favorite pastime was reading, and he eventually penned a book inspired by his bright insight. Richard proudly and honorably served his country from 1966-1970 in the United States Army, in the elite 5th Special Forces Group in the Vietnam War, one of the most decorated active duty United States Army Special Forces groups.
Richard went on to pursue a career as an Executive Consultant and greatly enjoyed his talent for public speaking, while encouraging self awareness, self-improvement, and spiritual evolvement. Richard had a passion for dogs and dog loving people alike, enjoyed the Connecticut shoreline, all things Orvis, lending a helping hand to others, and hiking the CT reservoir trails. As a born visionary and dreamer, Richard partook in countless discussions about the nature of reality and of how to make both self and the world a better place in which to live.
Richard is survived by his close friend Alessandra, their springer spaniel- Colin, his devoted daughter Wendy, and his furry goldendoodle grandchildren Molly and Grace. He is also survived by his son, Steve, daughter in law Rhonda, and grandchildren Alex and Russell.
Richard, the single handed sailor, has sailed away on the winds of Grace, into a far better place, taking with him only his feather- his knowing faith. He survived the storm of this lifetime with the courage to always be real, to be fully himself, and to walk in love. To his daughter and best friend, he will be forever treasured, forever loved and greatly missed. Tack sa mycket, my Dad. Until we meet again.
Memorial services will be privately arranged.
Lester Hoysradt
SALISBURY - Lester Amos Hoysradt, 90, of Undermountain Road , died peacefully in Hospice care on March 7,2024 in Palm Harbor, Florida. He was a lifelong resident of Salisbury, Connecticut.
Lester was born October 1,1933 at home in Salisbury to Whilhemina (Brazee) and Clayton Hoysradt. He came into this world with very little.
He was a graduate of Housatonic Valley Regional High School and the school of Horticulture at UCONN.
A proud Raggie, lifelong gardener, tireless worker, he was the fabric of the Town. There was perhaps never a kinder and more generous man. Lester helped people anyway he could, day or night and was a 25-year hospice volunteer.
A community man, loved by many, he was considered to be the unofficial Mayor of Salisbury.
In the 1960s Lester opened Roaring Oaks Florist in Sharon, CT.
He was a dog lover. His spot in the back of the Church will be difficult to fill.
Lester is survived by his sister Linda Roddy of Leesburgh FL. He was predeceased by his brother Don “Donny” Hoysradt and his two sisters Kay Ora “Sis” Baker and Mary Lou Orth.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday May 18 at 11:am at the Salisbury Congregational Church in Salisbury, Connecticut with a celebration of Lesters life to follow at the White Heart Inn.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Little Guild, 285 Sharon-Goshen Turnpike, West Cornwall, CT. 06796.
Libby Miller
FALLS VILLAGE - Elisabeth Ann Miller, known by many as Libby, passed peacefully at home on March 22, 2024, after a long number of illnesses.
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Libby was born November 24, 1958 in Hartford, CT, and spent her early years in Simsbury, CT.
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She attended Simsbury schools and the University of Connecticut. Following her studies, Libby had a successful career in the insurance industry, working with a number of major insurance companies in the Hartford area as an underwriter and actuary.
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Later, she joined her family's insurance business, serving as vice president in the New Hartford, Litchfield county areas.
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Moving to the Salisbury area, Libby pursued a career as an advertising representative for 12 years at the Lakeville Journal before retiring.
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Her interests included cooking, crafting, antique jewelry, books, and music. She loved nature and all types of animals.
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Libby is survived by her husband Ralph Carl Miller, a brother R. William Cosseboom of Anthem, AZ, a sister Carrie Cosseboom (Harris) of Canton, CT and a number of nieces and nephews and her close friends Ina Palmer of Miami, FL and Melissa Crampton of Falls Village, CT.
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There are no services planned, however, a memorial service is planned for later in the year.
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In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the visiting nurse and hospice of Litchfield County, or a charity of your choice.
Bob Moeller
SHARON - Paul Robert “Bob” Moeller died on March 25, 2024 at home at the age of 84.
Bob was born in Alpena, Michigan, the son of the late Lutheran Bishop Paul and Iris (Troyer) Moeller.
Bob graduated in 1957 from Oakwood High School in Dayton, Ohio.
Bob’s family was interested in nature – his mother was a Girl Scout leader. She had a federal permit to collect bird nests that were no longer used by nesting birds. The family helped with this collection which was donated to an educational center. Bob was a Boy Scout and earned his Eagle Scout Badge. In June of 1961 Bob graduated from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, with a degree in Biology.
He met his wife Wanda at college, and they were married August 15, 1961, in the Memorial Lutheran Church in Nevada, Iowa.
Bob was hired by National Audubon Society as a naturalist at Aullwood Audubon Center / Dayton, Ohio, where he led groups of children and adults to explore and study, to appreciate and protect the natural world.
Their son Douglas was born on November 18, 1966 in Ohio.
In October of 1971 Bob, Wanda, and Douglas moved to Sharon when he accepted the position of Director of Sharon Audubon Center, and they lived in the stone cottage on the property until Bob became an Audubon Regional Environmental Educator working with many Audubon groups in our region. During his time as Director of Sharon Audubon, Bob helped develop a Mammal Skull Key which was used to identify mammals found in our area. Bob was the leader in the Sharon area for many ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNTS each December, and he was leader for the BREEDING BIRD CENSUS each May for many, many years!
High school and college students were accepted in the Audubon Trainee Program each spring, summer, and fall. Many lives were (and still are) changed as the result of Bob’s mentoring program! Nearly everywhere Bob went, he would be asked questions about natural history, or animals, plants, trees, or weather related topics.
Bob visited all 50 U.S. states! During his years with Audubon, Bob was able to travel to many conferences in the U.S. as well as to be an Audubon Leader for a trip to Africa. Bob was sent to England in 1972 to learn how the British incorporated natural history into their school curriculum. Each trip provided educational experiences for Bob to learn about and appreciate the birds, animals, trees, plants, and people in several areas of our world!
Bob served on Sharon’s Inland/Wetland Commission, Sharon Land Trust, Sharon Ambulance Squad, the Aton Forest Board in Norfolk, CT, and Housatonic Valley Association as a consultant. Bob was an active member of Sharon United Methodist Church.
In the fall of 1987 Bob was elected First Selectman for the Town of Sharon, a position he held for 18 years until his retirement in the fall of 2005. Bob attended most meetings of Sharon’s Boards and Commissions during the years he served in this position and was involved in the renovation of Sharon Center School, the renovation of Sharon Town Hall, as well as the building the Sharon Water Treatment Facility.
Bob’s hobbies were golfing, coaching or attending Doug’s sports, square foot gardening, travel, playing card games or board games with friends, fixing things at home, bird watching, and watching UCONN Men’s and Women’s basketball games.
In 2016 signs of Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia were diagnosed. The challenges Bob faced were met with acceptance and dignity.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Joan Deyoe and her husband Richard. He is survived by his loving wife Wanda of 62 + years, their son, Douglas of Berkeley, CA, his brother Ralph Philip (Marcia) of Denver Colorado, and his sister Mary Benis (Michael) of Columbus, Ohio, as well as several nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Bob’s Life will be held Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Sharon United Methodist Church, 112 Upper Main St. with a reception following the service.
Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to:
- SHARON AUDUBON CENTER , 325 Cornwall Bridge Road, Sharon, CT 06069
- Sharon United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 172, Sharon, CT 06069
- MICHAEL J. FOX PARKINSON’S RESEARCH FUND Grand Central Station, P.O. Box 4777, NY, NY 10163-4777
Judith Schwerin
SHARON - Judith Chatfield Schwerin, 81, died on March 22 at her home in Sharon, CT. The wife of Frederick W. Schwerin, Jr. also of Sharon, she was a beloved friend to many.
The daughter of Helen (Spencer) Chatfield and Sherwood Clark Chatfield, she was born in New York City, grew up in Chappaqua, N.Y., and spent summers in Sharon. Besides her husband, she is survived by her brother, William Chatfield, of Jacksonville, Florida.
A garden historian, author, and lecturer, she wrote four books about Italian gardens: Boboli Gardens, A Tour of Italian Gardens, The Classic Italian Garden, and Gardens of the Italian Lakes. She gave many illustrated lectures to many garden clubs and other organizations, including Sotheby’s, The Cooper-Hewitt Museum, the Italian Cultural Institute, and the Edith Wharton Restoration at the Mount.
She attended Horace Greeley High School and went on to receive her B.A. and M.A. degrees in art history from Syracuse University in 1964 and 1968 and a Master of Philosophy degree from the Courtauld Institute of the University of London in 1972.
In 1967 she won a Fulbright scholarship to study the restoration of art in Florence, Italy after flooding in the city. She was also a visiting scholar at the American Academy of Rome for three years.
Judith was a member of the Century Association in New York City, the Sharon Women’s Club, and the Sharon Garden Club. She was also a worldwide traveler who explored countries in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and South America.
The Kenny Funeral Home in Sharon is in charge of arrangements. A memorial service will be held at 11 am on Saturday, May 25th at Christ Church Episcopal in Sharon.
Instead of flowers, please send donations to the Little Guild of St. Francis in Cornwall, CT.
Deborah Reyelt
SALISBURY - Deborah Eynon Reyelt, 89, of Salisbury passed away March 19, 2024, at Sharon Hospital. Born on July 25th,1934 in Milton, MA, she was the eldest of Natalie and Bill Eynon’s four daughters.
After graduating from Glen Ridge High School in New Jersey, she attended the Katharine Gibbs School which prepared her for her first full-time job at McGraw Hill Publishing.
In 1957 she met Peter Reyelt, and the two were married in Greenwich, CT the following year.
After stints in Richmond VA, where Deb worked at Reynolds Aluminium while Peter finished medical school, Denver, CO for Peter’s internship, and Hartford, CT for his residency, the young couple moved to Sharon, CT with their three small children.
First landing on Upper Main Street, Deb happily made the northwest corner her home for the next 58 years, most of them spent at Deb and Peter’s beloved “Hooperfields,” an old farmhouse they renovated on West Woods Road. Deb dedicated herself to raising her young family which over the years included several dogs and cats, a goat, and even a flock of baby wood ducks. Once her children were settled in school, Deb began working at the Sharon Assessor’s office, a job she loved and held for many years. Affectionately known as “Big Deb” by her family on account of her desire to take charge, soon friends and colleagues adopted the nickname as well.
Having lived on the Cape for a portion of her childhood, Deb had a life-long love of the beach. In 1993, she and Peter bought a small cottage on Nantucket, a place she loved to spend time with family and friends. Other passions included her volunteer work, serving on the boards of the Housatonic Child Care Center and the Sharon Playhouse, her political activism, her bridge and needlepoint groups, her many outings with friends, and especially, her time with grandchildren who brought her the ultimate joy.
Deb is survived by her husband, Peter, her three children, Amy (Scott), Becky and Bill (Olivia), five grandchildren, Nick (Katie), Abby and Will, Eleanor and Grace, and two great grandsons, George and Walter, as well as her two sisters, Susie and Connie. She was predeceased by her sister Betsy.
In gratitude for her dedicated caregivers, contributions may be made to Noble Horizons in Salisbury.
The family is planning a Celebration of Life at a later date.
Paul Clark
SHARON – Paul Allen Clark died peacefully on Thursday, February 29th at Sharon Hospital with his devoted loving wife Betsy (Stanton) Clark by his side.
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Paul was born in Trenton, New Jersey on Easter Sunday, March 25, 1951 son of the late Raymond and Mildred Clark.
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Paul attended school in Westfield, New Jersey and then graduated from Western New England College in Springfield, MA.
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Upon graduation he worked for United Screw & Bolt in Westfield, New Jersey, as a sales representative, covering the New England Region. During this time he resided in Meriden, CT, where he met Betsy. After their marriage, in October, 1986, they moved to Sayreville, New Jersey where they lived for 26 years. In 1991 Paul started his own business, Precision Parts, Inc., which was a Fastener Distribution Company. After retiring in 2012 they moved to Sharon.
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In his youth, Paul sang and travelled to Europe with the St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Choir of Westfield, NJ. Besides music, his other interests included travelling with family and friends all throughout Europe, reading, playing cards, being the expert “chef” for Holiday meals and best buddy to the three doxies he had during his lifetime, Bismark, Fritz & Hans.
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In addition to his wife, he is survived by his two sisters, Nancy Aurand of Marietta, GA and Amy Demos and her husband Darryl of Duxbury, MA, as well as his nieces and nephews who he loved very much.
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A memorial service will be held at the Kenny Funeral Home on Tuesday, March 5th at 11 a.m. followed by a celebration of life. Private interment services will be held in the Spring.
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In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Sharon Volunteer Ambulance, PO Bo 357, Sharon, CT. 06069.
Barbara Gridley
NORFOLK - Barbara Dean Gueinzius Gridley died peacefully on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, nine days shy of her 94th birthday, in her beloved Norfolk, CT home under the loving care of her two children, extended family members, her beloved knitting group, friends of all ages, caregivers and hospice nurses of the Foothills Visiting Nurses Association.
Barbara was born February 23, 1930 in Green Bay, WI, the daughter of Phyllis Reeke Gueinzius and John Bernard Gueinzius. She was called Barbara Dean. Her sibling, John Bernard Gueinzius, Jr., and her husband of 60 years, William G. Gridley, Jr., predeceased her. Her two children, Katharine Mead Gridley (John Barstow); and William Winslow Gridley (Mary Heller Gridley); four grandchildren, Rebecca, Charles, Angus and Nell; two great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins survive her.
Barbara attended public schools in Green Bay, and then went to Connecticut College, where she earned her B.A. in Anthropology. She later earned a M.A. in Education from Bank Street College. Upon graduating college, Barbara moved to New York City, where she worked as a copywriter at the advertising firm Ogilvy & Mather, where her main account was the hip and modern Helena Rubenstein.
A proud Wisconsinite and avid Green Bay Packers fan, she nonetheless never returned to live in the Upper Midwest. In 1950 she went on a blind date with a boy from Yale, Bill Gridley, they fell madly in love and were married on Sept. 4, 1954 in Green Bay. Barbara and Bill lived in New York City in the same Upper East Side neighborhood where Bill grew up. They soon had children: Kate in 1956, and Billy in 1958.
Barbara’s first love was Bill, and her family, on whom she regularly bragged. Then, close behind came learning and teaching. Starting in 1968, she made a 38-year career at the St. Bernard’s School, where she founded the audio-visual program before broadening her scope to become a beloved special subjects and reading teacher. Generations of boys from St. B’s all remember their first research paper on their favorite animal. She was a veritable pioneer and role model for women who sought strong careers and healthy families.
Family and friends described Barbara as “the first to volunteer,” “vividly alive,” a “spark plug,” a fast driver, a life-long learner, an avid reader, and a warm welcoming presence. Throughout Barbara’s long and lively life, a fierce curiosity inspired her to adventure and action, inspiring her to travel the world, and manifesting in her teaching style, where she unconsciously modeled her passion for learning and difference by opening new worlds to her students between the four walls of the classroom. To say that generally she held strong and progressive views was true.
Her volunteer activities included: The Yorkville Youth Council, The Gateway School, and Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City; The Norfolk Historical Society, The Foundation for Norfolk Living, and The Battell Arts Foundation in Norfolk. She was a member of the Cosmopolitan Club in New York, and The Norfolk Country Club, The Doolittle Club in Norfolk. Barbara and Bill were ardent supporters of the Ellen Battell Stoeckel Estate, the Yale Summer School of Music and Art and the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival.
A memorial service will be held June 22, 11:00 am at The Church of Christ Congregational, Norfolk, CT.
Memorial donations in her name may be made to Planned Parenthood Federation of America Inc., New York, NY, or to The Foundation for Norfolk Living, Norfolk, CT.
Alex L. Taylor III
LAKEVILLE - Alex L. Taylor III, a longtime reporter with Time and Fortune magazine who covered the auto industry with understated and unsurpassed flair for nearly three decades, died on February 8 in Lakeville, Conn., where he lived. The cause was complications from Parkinson’s disease.
Born on January 1, 1945, Alex grew up in Old Greenwich, Conn., the oldest of five siblings.
His father, Alex L. Taylor II, owned the Alex Taylor & Co. sporting goods store in Midtown Manhattan, and his mother, Cherry (Grafton), was a teacher.
A graduate of Kent School, he earned a bachelor’s degree from Middlebury College and a master’s in journalism from the University of Missouri.
He began his journalism career at a radio station in Indiana. He went on to a series of reporting stints at WZZMT-TV in Grand Rapids, MI, and The Detroit Free Press. As a newsman for Time and Fortune magazine, Alex was regarded as a smart, dogged reporter with meticulous storytelling skills and one of the most knowledgeable journalists covering the auto industry. He won numerous awards for his writing, including three first prizes from the Detroit Press Club Foundation and “Journalist of the Year” from the Washington Automotive Press Association. A former adjunct professor at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism, in 2000, he was selected one of 100 Notable Business Journalists of the 20th Century.
He was a member of the International Motor Press Association and was on the jury for the North America Car of the Year Awards. Alex was the author of “Sixty to Zero: An Inside Look at the Collapse of General Motors – and the Detroit Auto Industry.” Drawing on more than thirty years of experience and insight as an automotive industry reporter, the book was released to positive reviews in 2010.
Beyond his work, Alex is remembered for his love of his family and friends, tennis, nonfiction books, and Brooks Brothers. He was admired for his wit and all-around generosity, as well as his good cheer and courage living with Parkinson’s.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Mary; son, Alex; daughter, Madeleine; sisters Holly and Faith along with nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers John and David.
Please consider donating in Alex’s honor to The Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s research.
A memorial service will be held on June 15 at the Congregational Church of Salisbury.
Edward “Ed” M Driscoll III
WILLIS, TX - Edward “Ed” M Driscoll III, 61 years old, of Willis, TX, formerly of Norfolk, CT, passed away on February 9, 2024 in Jacksonville, FL doing what he loved - driving his 18 wheeler with his beloved dog.
Ed was born September 24, 1962 in Winsted, CT the son of the late Edward M. Driscoll Jr. and Solveig (Kolby) Driscoll. He was part of the Northwestern Regional High School #7 Class of 1980. After high school, Ed served in the Army where he honed his trucking and mechanical skills. Ed continued to drive professionally for the rest of his life, making friends at every stop along the way.
Ed enjoyed singing and playing guitar for all who would listen. He especially loved riding his motorcycle on the open road. Ed was a true entertainer; his sense of humor, kind smile, and stories will be missed.
He is survived by his daughter, Kristin Driscoll; sister Ingrid Burke and her husband, Matthew of Colebrook, CT; brothers, Peter Driscoll and his wife, Heidi, of Southington, CT, D. Neil Driscoll of Simsbury, CT, John Driscoll and his wife, Tracy, of Salem, WI, and Steven Driscoll of Norfolk, CT. He leaves behind 10 nieces and nephews and many cousins and friends across the United States and Norway.
A celebration of life will be held on May 18, 2024 at the Norbrook Brewery in Colebrook, CT.
Memorial contributions may be sent in a charity of your choice in Ed’s name.
Larry Donald Tyler
LAKEVILLE - Larry Donald Tyler's valiant volley with cancer ended February 4, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.
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He was born on October 16, 1956 to Douglas W. Jr. and Mary Alice (Colli) Tyler of Canaan, CT.
Larry attended local schools and his indomitable spirit in athletics was as legendary as his sideburns. He possessed a dry wit and kindness that is rare to find in this world.
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Larry's professional career was devoted to the family business, Tyler Carpet, later becoming proprietor of Black Cat Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning.
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A devoted father and friend, he spent many years volunteering for Lions Club and was deeply committed to the local recovery community. He will be remembered with remarkable admiration for his bravery and endurance. His calculated chuckle and perfectly timed comments will be missed in many local establishments.
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Some of Larry's greatest loves were strong coffee, salty meats, and race cars. His dog Jordan was his closest comrade, and his grandchildren will always remember him being there to cheer them on. His friends who rallied around him in the end will never be forgotten, it’s a blessing that there are too many to name.
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Larry's children Tanya P. Golden (Eric Ackerman), Jonathan S. Tyler, Whitney A. Tyler (Ryan Foley), Taylor Benatsou, and Chloe Fazio will carry on his legacy of unconditional love.
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He married his longtime life partner Tiela Garnett on May 20, 2023 in an intimate ceremony in Boothbay Harbor, Maine.
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He is survived by his mother Mary and brothers Michael (Ellen) and Stephen Tyler. He also leaves behind his grandchildren Rachel, Mehali, Chase and Avery along with his nephews Josh, Justin and Keith. Larry was predeceased by his father Douglas, brother Anthony, first wife Lauren and nephew Brian.
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Calling hours will be held February 17, 2024 from 3-5 at Kenny funeral home in Sharon.
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A celebration of life is planned for February 24th with details to be announced.
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In lieu of flowers please consider donating in Larry's honor to the Jane Lloyd Fund to help support neighboring families afflicted by cancer.
Patricia Omalyev
SHARON - Patricia Omalyev, 61, of Hospital Hill Rd, passed away January 29, 2024, at her home.
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Patti was born May 22, 1962 in Danbury the daughter of the late James and Virginia (Brown) Omalyev.
Patti graduated from Newtown High School and went on to get a bachelor’s degree from Western Connecticut University. She was a medical technician at Sharon Hospital for over 30 years.
Patti especially enjoyed long hikes with her dogs, horseback riding, gardening, and relaxing with her cat of 20 years, Meow.
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She is survived by siblings; Carol, John, Paul, Peter, and Elizabeth.
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A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 25 at 99 King Hill Rd., Sharon at 2pm.
Lawrence Chase
KENT - Lawrence Russell Chase passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at Sharon Hospital. He was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing.
Lawrence was born March 4, 1948 in Torrington, CT, the son of Elna (Kallstrom) Chase and Robert M. Chase.
He was a lifelong resident of Kent, CT who worked for many years at the Wassaic State school before retiring. Lawrence loved the outdoors, music, movies, and was an avid nature photographer. His greatest joy was his family.
Lawrence is survived by his three children Wendy Pastore, Darin Anderson (Liz), and Robin Mollica (husband Jerry). He is also survived his Grandchildren Kenny, Laura, Elizabeth, Alicia, Ashley, Brittany, Joshua, Jordan, and Riley. And, even more great grandchildren! Lawrence is also survived by his cousin Howard “Kip” Kallstrom, his niece Sarah Chase, and his sister-in-law Karen Chase (wife of Anders), and many more cousins. He is pre-deceased by his much beloved wife Carol, who he married on August 14, 1982, and his children Julie and Kenny. He is also pre-deceased by his parents Robert and Elna, brothers Anders “Andy” and Marshall, a niece Linda, his nephew Marshall “Buddy,” and his cousin Artie.
The family will have celebration of life ceremony at a later date, with further details to be announced.
The family wishes to thank Kip Kallstrom for the many days he spent with Lawrence and for helping to keep him in good spirits and comforted.
In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made in Lawrence’s honor to the Kent Volunteer Fire Department, and we especially thank the ambulance crew for their kindness and dedication to Lawrence, our family, and all the good people of this town.
Annette Cloney
SHARON – Annette Cloney, age 85, of Herrick Road, passed away February 3, 2024, peacefully in her home with her beloved dog Nike by her side. She was a devoted mother, something she cherished and excelled at, and the patient wife of the late Gerard Cloney.
Annette was born November 29th, 1938, in Hamilton Bermuda, the daughter of the late Helene and William Frith. It was on this beautiful island where she developed her deep love of good friends, laughter, and horses.
Annette was a proud alumna of Hannah More Academy (now St. Tomothy’s School), Centenary College for Women, and the Sorbonne in Paris. She worked for the Coral Beach Club and Bermuda Tourism Office in New York.
In 1970, she persuaded Gerry to trade the city life, which was no place to raise a growing family, for the country. There they spent the next 20 years living and loving at Highfield Farm in Sharon. Here she pursued her true passions with vigor: gardening, riding horses, and entertaining family and friends.
Annette was a people magnet and had an open invite at the table during the holidays for anyone who didn’t have a place to go. She loved to celebrate and always seemed to find an excuse to gather people together.
Annette was a study in contrasts. She despised being the center of attention, but she loved having people around her. She rarely talked about herself but loved hearing stories. And she loved to laugh. But she was most comfortable when she was helping others. She loved her NW Corner Community dearly and gave back to her community by volunteering for the Sharon Hospital, Salisbury Visiting Nurse Association (SVNA), and Hospice, and in countless unseen ways.
She is survived by her sons, Chris and Jean-Marc, daughter, Janine and seven grandchildren: Andrew, Nicholas, Griffin, Annabel, Alexander, Nico, and Jamie.
A memorial service will be held at Kenny Funeral Home on Friday, February 9 from 3pm - 5pm. All other services are private.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Salisbury Visiting Nurse Association (SVNA).
Jennifer Carroll
POUGHKEEPSIE, NY- Jennifer N. Carroll, 52, of Mill Street, died unexpectedly on Monday, January 15. She was the loving mother of Michael Rodriguez.
Jennifer was born in Brooklyn, NY on June 6, 1970, the daughter of Fatimah Abdullah and the late Patrick Ribustello. Jennifer attended Webutuck School and the Job Corps. She moved back to Dutchess County to raise her son.
She worked for McCabe and Mack Law Firm for 26 years as a legal secretary. She had a love for animals which kept her in touch with nature. She would rescue and fix stray cats. She was a volunteer for many years at the Dutchess County SPCA. She was a dedicated mother, a good friend and had a kind heart.
Besides her son Michael and her mother Fatimah, Jennifer is survived by sisters Rachel Carroll and Heather Barney and a brother Nick Cicarelli. Besides her father she was also predeceased by a brother Vincent Cicarelli.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, January 26 from 4-6PM at the Kenny Funeral Home, 41 Main Street, Sharon, CT. Burial is private at Ferncliff Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA.
Doris Palmer
KENT - In loving memory of Doris Palmer, of Kent CT, a devoted wife, mother, Nana, sister and friend.
She passed peacefully on January 2, 2024. Born on August 5, 1933, to Alvin and Marion Peterson in Queens, New York, she is now reunited with her husband, James A. Palmer, and son, Douglas.
Doris is survived by her sons: James Palmer Jr. and his wife Karen, Scott Palmer and his wife Lori, and daughter Kathy Brown and her husband Winn. She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren Jeffrey, Christopher, Melaney, Jessica, and Jennifer. She is also survived by her brother Frederick, his wife Joy and family, her nephew William Palmer and his wife Klara, and other extended family who were touched by her warmth and guidance.
Doris was an accomplished quilter, finding joy in creating beautiful works of art and generously shared her passion by teaching others and gifting her quilts .
Throughout her life she set an example of service to others and her community. She launched a church nursery school, served as President of the Board of the New Milford Visiting Nurse Association, coordinator and driver for FISH of Kent, assistant registrar of voters and long time poll worker, and a member of the Kent Garden Club and Kent Quilters. She was a long active member of St. Andrews Episcopal Church.
Doris leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and a deep connection with those fortunate enough to have been part of her life. May her teachings and memories continue to inspire.
Her warm spirit, love, and dedication will be dearly missed.
A memorial service will be held at St. Andrew's Church in Kent on April 20th at 11:00AM.
Contributions in memory of Doris can be made to the Kent Community Fund, P.O.Box 262, Kent, CT 06757 or The Kent Garden Club at P.O.Box 771, Kent, CT 06757.
Dorothy Cass
Much loved mother, grandmother and great grandmother
CORNWALL - After a long full life Dorothy Cass entered eternal rest on January 5, 2024.
She was born on June 15, 1925 and grew up in Queens, NY a daughter to Susanna and Frederick York and sister to siblings; Dolores Orton her twin, Germaine Wininger and Howard York.
She married her husband Joseph B. Cass and moved to the country where she resided with him and their children. They moved to Lake Charles, LA until his death at which time she returned to CT to be closer to her children. She resided in Cornwall, CT for the last twenty five years of her life.
She died in her home surrounded by family.
She was an avid gardener and had many treasured friends. Dorothy was an active member of the Woman’s Society of Cornwall and helped in many fund raisers.
In addition to her husband Joseph B. Cass she was predeceased by three children; Brad, Michael and Amanda, three grandchildren; Wendy Jackson, Jody Cass and Michael Southworth.
She is survived by her three Sons; Kenny, Frederick and his wife Maryann, Brian Cass and her two daughters Jane Jackson (Cass) and her husband Roger, Susanne Scott (Cass) and her husband Robert Pierce. She is also survived by 9 grandchildren; Stephanie and Allison Chase, Marty Cass, Janice Barnes, Skeeter (Roger) Garren and his wife Chrissy, Chelby and Ben Cass, Rebecca Scott and Emily Svenningsen; six great grandchildren; Dyllan Munson, Willie, Katy, and Izzy Barnes, Colton and Brianna Southworth and two great great grandchildren; Ryker and Talyn Munson.
She will be sadly missed by her nieces who loved her as a surrogate Mom; Annie Barnes, Lisa Morales, Mary Mosegard, Karolyn Shepard and Kathy Venute.
It gave her great joy when they, along with all of her nieces and nephews came to visit her.
She also had a special fondness for Rob Budny who was a caregiver for Kenny and became like another son to her.
At her request services will be private for the family.