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Obituaries
Cameron Casey
KENT - Our dearly loved son, brother, uncle and friend, Cameron Middlebrook Casey, 36, of Kent, CT and Kentfield, CA passed away on November 22, 2023, after a long and courageous battle with depression.
Cameron was a graduate of Marin Catholic High School in Greenbrae, CA and the University of Colorado in Boulder, CO.
He worked in the film industry in New York City and Brooklyn for ten years before moving to Kent, CT, where he managed a family real estate business.
Cameron was an avid mountain biker, snowboarder, gifted stone artist and world traveler.
In addition to his mother and father, Janette Casey Bertrand of Marin County, CA, John Casey of Kent, CT, and his stepmother, Carolyn Casey, Cameron is survived by Caroline Simons and her husband, Taylor Simons, their children Henry and Tatum Simons of Shelter Island, NY, Madeline Casey and her husband, Michael Mutchler of Louisville, KY, and Devan Casey of Kent, CT, as well as his extended family.
A memorial Mass will be held for Cameron at the Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Parish Catholic Church at 17 Bridge St., Kent, CT at 11:00 AM, Saturday, December 9, 2023. Interment will follow at the Flanders Cemetery in Kent immediately after the Mass. A reception will be held at the Fife ‘n Drum Restaurant at 53 N. Main St. Kent, CT after interment.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSAlliance.org).
Cynthia Jenkins
WARREN - Cynthia Jenkins, 59, of Kent Rd, passed away October 27, 2023, at Danbury Hospital. She was the loving wife of David Jenkins.
Cynthia was born July 7, 1964 in New York City, the daughter of the late Rudy and Gilda Ridde.
Cynthia graduated from SUNY Binghamton, with a bachelor’s degree in English Literature.
She spent a number of years as a public school teacher and then a homeschool mom, and then became an energy healer who helped many people find emotional healing.
She is survived by two sons, Owen, and Eli, and a daughter, Grace.
A private celebration of life ceremony took place on November 12, 2023.
Linda Sheridan
MILLERTON, NY- Linda Louise (Kitchen(s)) Sheridan, age 84, a resident of Millerton, New York, died on Oct. 20th in Sharon, Connecticut. She was born January 17, 1939, in Jacksonville, Illinois to Gerald and Ruth (Underwood) Kitchens. She recently returned to the original spelling of her maiden name, Kitchen without the “s”, hence the parentheses.
Linda attended Jacksonville High School, and then Stephen Decatur High School. She went on to study at Millikin University, MacMurray College, the Ray Vogue School of Design, and the Art Institute of Chicago. The love of learning remained throughout her life. Linda had a daughter, Frances Ruth Sheridan, with her husband, film and TV director, Jay J. Sheridan.
Her secretarial career in Illinois included working at Marvel-Schebler Borg Warner, IITRI, the American Dental Association, Illinois Power, and John Deere Life Insurance, and as a Nuclear Steno in the Rad/Chem Dept. at the Clinton Power Plant startup. She was a Sr. Administrative Assistant at TransUnion LLC Chicago, in the International Department, which she loved. Upon retirement, she moved to the East Coast to be closer to her family.
Linda was a devoted mother to her daughter and son-in-law, and grandma to her grandchildren. She was a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Creative, ever-loving, sharp of mind, and wit, she was always willing to go above and beyond for family and friends. Her strength of spirit and never-quitting constitution will be forever inspiring.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Andy and Evelyn (Nunes) Kitchens; her parents; Jay J. Sheridan; and one brother, Michael Kitchens.
Linda is survived by her daughter, Frances Ruth (Tristan) Sheridan, who is so grateful to have had her as a mother; her 3 much-loved grandchildren: Clyde, Beatrice, and Louise; her brothers: Jerald (Linda) Kitchens, and Stephen (Linda) Kitchens; sister-in-law Karen Kitchens; and many nieces and nephews.
The family is comforted by the faith that she is with Jesus and those who have gone before her, and with the knowledge that we will be together again one day. Until then she will be dearly missed.
In lieu of flowers, please pray a Novena or Rosary, as they were meaningful to her in life. A memorial will be held in Jacksonville, Illinois at a later date.
“Life is real! Life is earnest! And the grave is not its goal; Dust thou art, to dust returnest, Was not spoken of the soul.” From “A Psalm of Life” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Jerome Doolittle
WEST CORNWALL - Jerry Doolittle, a writer and unusually well-informed amateur herpetologist who helped to resettle several Vietnamese and Lao families in the Northwest Corner of Connecticut in the 1970’s, died on November 19, 2023, at the age of 90 in Salisbury, CT of complications of sepsis.
The 51-year resident of West Cornwall, CT was well-known for his scathing wit. For instance, Elizabeth Kolbert of The New Yorker in 2004 wrote: “Jerome Doolittle, a White House speechwriter who sometimes composed funny lines for Carter, likened his role to that of Franklin Roosevelt’s tap-dance coach.”
He was born in Pittsburgh in 1933 to a socially prominent family. His father, the late William M. Doolittle, relocated the family to the Northwest Corner to assume the headmastership of Indian Mountain School in the late 1930’s. His mother, Mary (“Sue”) Hill Doolittle, struggled with alcoholism and addiction, and when Jerry’s father volunteered for service in World War II, Jerry and his siblings were left largely to their own devices on the campus of Indian Mountain School. The fields, woods, hills and ponds of Indian Mountain were where Jerry spent hours alone, often reading books from the school library, and where he developed his lifelong love of nature, especially snakes. He became an expert downhill skier on Indian Mountain’s old rope tow runs, a skill which served him well during his years at Middlebury College, where he was a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. He was graduated from Middlebury in 1954, and remained an active skier into his 70’s.
Jerry in his youth traveled widely within the U.S., holding a number of blue-collar jobs including oil field roustabout. Upon graduation from college, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served at military bases in the U.S. His experience as an enlisted man instilled in him a life-long skepticism of authority figures in general, and commissioned military officers in particular.
Also, during his military service in 1956, he was married to Gretchen Dewitt Rath, a Middlebury classmate formerly of Washington, D.C. and now of West Cornwall, CT, who survives him. After Jerry completed his Army service, they settled in Arlington, VA, while Jerry began a career as a newspaper reporter and editor with newspapers there, including the Washington Post. This included assignments covering the Beatles’ first American tour, and Martin Luther King’s “I Have A Dream” speech on the National Mall. Jerry also profiled Washington big-wig Leonard Marks, who soon thereafter was appointed director of the former United States Information Service (since merged with the State Department), and offered Jerry a diplomatic position as the Press Attaché, or spokesman, of the U.S. diplomatic mission in Morocco.
Jerry and Gretchen moved to Casablanca in 1966 for several years with their four sons, Tim, Ted, Jon and Mike. Matthew was born in Morocco. Jerry’s second posting was to the U.S. embassy in Vientiane, Laos, in 1969, during the height of the U.S.’s secret air war in Laos. Since the U.S. at that time was denying its involvement in the bombing, the job of embassy spokesman required misleading the press on a daily basis. He ultimately quit this job as a matter of principle, but not before confidentially working with his former Washington Post colleague, Les Whitten, to help The Post prove U.S. involvement in the bombing of Laos. The story of how Jerry, Les and another American named Fred Branfman exposed the secret air war in Laos is told in a chapter of the 1979 book, “The Best of the Post.” Jerry in 1973 published an influential anti-war op-ed in the New York Times about America’s campaign of lies about U.S. involvement in Laos, later in large part reproduced in Howard Zinn’s book, A People’s History of the United States.
When Jerry and Gretchen returned to the U.S. in 1972 with five young sons, they settled in West Cornwall, CT, directly across the street from the red covered bridge. Jerry continued his career as a freelance writer, publishing extensively in national periodicals such as Esquire and Playboy. He self-published a volume called Understanding Gum Disease (online version here), advertised in the classified section of Organic Gardening magazine, and over a period of years sold his full print run out of his home office via mail order. He also authored two non-fiction books in a Time-Life series on American wilderness areas: Canyons and Mesas (1974) and The Southern Appalachians (1975 ). For both books, Jerry and Gretchen packed the five boys up for extensive summer vacation research trips in their Chevy Suburban, sleeping together every night in a massive seven-person canvas tent in national parks and other campgrounds.
During this period, the Vietnam conflict was coming to a close, and Jerry, still feeling the weight of America’s involvement in that misbegotten war, organized several Northwest Corner churches to sponsor Vietnamese refugee families, including one family that lived for a period in an apartment in the Doolittle family home in West Cornwall. Jerry also personally sponsored a Laotian family, Khammone and Thongsai Mitsri and their children Pepe and Jojo, who thrived here and still live in Danbury, CT.
Jerry had a lifelong intense interest in politics, and joined the Jimmy Carter presidential campaign as a speechwriter and spokesman in 1976. That led ultimately to two years in the Carter White House as a presidential speechwriter, then two years as the head of public affairs for the Federal Aviation Administration.
Jerry’s first published novel, The Bombing Officer, about a young American diplomat caught up in the secret air war in Laos, came out in 1982. Jerry taught Expository Writing at Harvard from 1985-1990. The Cambridge, MA setting, combined with Jerry’s many years watching various sons wrestle in high school, yielded the Tom Bethany novels – a series of six critically well-received murder mysteries featuring a Cambridge-based private investigator with progressive politics, an airplane pilot’s license Olympic-level wrestling skills, and an ACLU litigator girlfriend. Starting with Body Scissors in 1990 and continuing annually thereafter, each volume was named after a different wrestling hold.
Post-Bethany, Jerry’s writing started to focus on his blog, Bad Attitudes, where he and a few collaborators several times per week or more posted brilliant and often hilarious political and social commentary. Commercial publishers were not willing to take a chance on his masterpiece, The Dead Zoo, a novel inspired by Ronald Reagan’s boyhood interest in taxidermy, and which Jerry’s Tom Bethany editor Bill Grose, by then retired, called the creepiest book he ever read.
Jerry had the true soul of an artist and creator, which in his case came with a strong sense that he actually had no option in life other than to pursue his craft as a writer, even when other easier routes were available, such as the lucrative communications position with a large New York bank that he turned down after serving in the Carter Administration. Having been functionally abandoned by his parents as a boy gave him a fierceness in his convictions and a survival-driven complete lack of interest in what others around him wanted or expected him to do. He had a single-minded dedication to excellence in whatever he deemed to be important – and if his list of what was important coincided with yours, then great; if not … still okay.
His pursuit of excellence in things he thought were important was relentless. In addition to his craft as a writer, he was a skillful whistler, a very able sketch artist, a photographer with an uncanny knack for capturing the explosiveness of plants, particularly in blossom, and later in life became one of the best sourdough bread bakers in the state. This came, quite typically, after he determined that good sourdough bread was unavailable in Northwest Connecticut, which to him just meant he would have to make his own. He thereupon set forth on a project of trial-and-error experimentation which in a year or so took him to near perfection – a steady supply of chewy but tender, delicately spiced or flavored loaves with a deep, rich sourness, all produced in a modestly appointed home kitchen.
He not only supplied himself and his family and friends with this superior bread, but also decided to sell loaves at the local farmer’s market until he had enough money to buy a new, high-end Apple computer for his wife Gretchen.
He and Gretchen loved to have the house full over the holidays and in the summer. Jerry typically spent the weeks leading up to Easter recruiting every family with young children in the village of West Cornwall to come to Jerry and Gretchen’s house for a massive Easter party and Easter egg hunt. Decades ago, he helped launch a series of extended family reunions where his own family got together with the families of his sister Patsy and brother Billy, the latest of which took place in July and included a joyful celebration of his 90th birthday.
He loved nothing better than playing with his many grandchildren when they were very small; when they got bigger, he didn’t take them to the movies, ballgames or for ice cream like the other grandpas, but rather loaded them into his old Honda Element (he would pull the back seats out during his book research trips so he could sleep in Wal-Mart parking lots), and took off for adventures like meeting the cows and exploring the barn at the tiny Cornwall dairy farm where he picked up his raw milk every week, or driving them into remote wild corners of the Berkshires where he had located south-facing slopes with rattlesnake hangouts. Jerry would carefully – slowly and gently – lift up the pieces of corrugated tin, plywood or old carpet he had pre-positioned in the hope, often fulfilled, that the snakes would be waiting for him.
He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 68 years, Gretchen Doolittle of West Cornwall, CT; his sister, Patricia Shure of Ann Arbor; two brothers, William Doolittle, Jr. of East Stroudsburg, PA, and Mickey Doolittle of Colebrook, CT; and a step-brother, Ian Ingersoll of Cornwall, CT. Also surviving are five sons: Timothy and wife Colleen Doolittle of Oakdale, MN; Theodore Doolittle and wife Kathryn Engustian of West Hartford, CT; Jonathan Doolittle and wife Blair McElroy of Greenbrae, CA; Michael and wife Amity Doolittle of New Haven, CT; and Matthew Doolittle of New York, NY; as well as grandchildren Nick Hanzalik, Eliza Doolittle, Lauren Hanzalik, Bethany Doolittle, Sam Doolittle, Tessa Doolittle, Anayis Doolittle, Hannah Doolittle, Georgia Doolittle, Eve Doolittle, Wyatt Doolittle, and Brooks Doolittle .
Funeral services will be held at the North Cornwall Meeting House (United Church of Christ) on Cogswell Road in West Cornwall, CT on Sunday, December 3 at 12:30 p.m. A celebration of life for family and friends will also take place in 2024 at a time and place to be determined.
James Morehouse
SHARON – James Edwin Morehouse, age 90 of 44 Jackson Road passed away November 18, 2023 at his home. He was preceded by his wife Avis E. Morehouse of 66 years on April 10, 2022.
James was born December 13, 1932 in Sharon, Connecticut; the son of the late William and Sophia (Aakkar) Morehouse. James was a Korean War Veteran. He was self-employed as a welder, mechanic, equipment fabricator and forester.
James is survived by his daughters Kathleen Visconti and Diane James and his son-in-law Mark Visconti. His grandchildren Darren, Nathan, and Bradley Visconti, Dylan, Will, Elizabeth and Lyndon Morehouse. His great-grandchildren Scarlett and Sienna Visconti and Odin Arancibia. James was also predeceased by three sons Gary, Peder and William Morehouse.
Calling Hours will be held at the Kenny Funeral Home in Sharon on Saturday, December 9th from • 12:00 – 2:00PM with a service to follow in his memory at 2:00PM.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Sharon Volunteer Ambulance, P.O. Box 357, Sharon, CT. 06069.
William Lee
SHARON - Bill (William) Lee, 86, of Sharon, CT and New York, NY died in Manhattan on November 15th, 2023.
He was born in Brooklyn, NY in 1938 to Clara and Arthur Levy.
He drew the best banana in his Brooklyn kindergarten class, and since then, he kept going on to bigger and better things, including one of his first freelance positions: illustrator of the assembly directions for the very first Barbie Dreamhouse (1962).
He attended the School of Visual Arts (1960-1964), which prepared him for his career as a cartoonist and cartoon editor for General Media. The satirist and self-described “Investigative Cartoonist” won many awards throughout his life, including the International Humor Award, and his work has been featured in such publications as Compute, Cosmopolitan, Esquire, Evergreen, National Lampoon, Omni, Penthouse, Playboy, and Spin.
He travelled the world and was among the first to enter many countries that had been closed to travel by U.S. citizens, including China (1979), Russia (1983), and Cuba (1999).
He often described his hobbies as relaxing with a drink and listening to music that ranged somewhere between Hank Williams and Mozart.
He was widowed by his wife, Dona Johnson-Lee and is survived by his daughter Jennifer. '
While he would probably have loved well-wishers to raise a glass of Jack Daniels in his memory, they can also donate to the cancer charity of their choosing, as the loss of his wife of many years to cancer in 1997 made it his nemesis.
Charles Olbricht
ANCRAMDALE, NY - Charles G. Olbricht (known as Chuck) passed away October 31, 2023 after a year long of health problems. His life partner of 54 years was with him when he died.
Chuck was born on January 7, 1940, the second son of Evelyn P. Olbricht and Henry G. Olbricht. His childhood was in Great Neck, NY. In 1948 the family moved to a farm in Ancramdale, NY.
Chuck graduated from Pine Plains High School, matriculated at Georgetown School of Foreign Service and graduated in 1961.
In 1962 Chuck was drafted, he joined the Army Intelligence Unit preparing to be stationed in Verona, Italy. He spent the next three years teaching Vietnamese history to US Army draftees at Fort Bragg, NC. Discharged as a Sergeant First Class, he began his business career working for ABC television.
In 1969 he met his life partner Charles Hewett Jr. on February 7. Later that year Chuck joined Ford Motor Company Northeast Public Affairs office in New York. Retiring as manager after 26 years, he then worked for the Business Council for International Understanding for seven years.
Later he volunteered for various organizations including the Asia Society.
He and his life partner Chuck (“The Two Chucks”) traveled extensively, agreeing that India was the most fascinating place they had visited.
He did not want a party or service. His ashes will be buried in Ancramdale, NY and in the family plot in New Paltz Cemetery.
Gifts in his memory should be made to the Columbia - Greene Community College.
“The art of losing isn’t hard to master...”
E.Bishop : One Art
Mary Lamb
SHARON - Mary (Pitcher) Lamb, age 84, passed away on November 5, 2023 at Noble Horizons in Salisbury, CT. She was born in Canaan, CT on December 10, 1938, daughter of William Pitcher and Margaret (Humeston) Pitcher. She lived her entire life in Sharon, CT.
Mary was a graduate of Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village, CT and the Krissler Business Institute in Poughkeepsie, NY.
She was predeceased by her best friend and loving husband of 52 years, Peter Lamb, and also her wonderful sister, JoAnne Danforth and her husband James Danforth of Dalton, MA.
Mary’s greatest joys, accomplishments and rewards in life were her family.
She is survived by four sons, Donald Lamb Sr and his wife, Rachel, of Salisbury, Michael and his wife, Frances, of Raymond NH, Robert and his wife, Kathleen, of Clayton, NC, and Joseph and his wife, Christine, of Salisbury. She is also survived by eight grandchildren: Donald Lamb Jr and his wife, Erin, of Dunlap, TN, Jocelyn Chaplin and her husband, Arthur, of Uncasville, CT, David Lamb and his wife, Kendra, of Walpole, MA, Carrie Monks and her husband, Matthew, of Winchester, MA, Morgan Lamb of Fayetteville, NC, Jacob Lamb of West Hartford, CT, Shayla Lamb and Brogan Lamb, of Clayton, NC. She also leaves ten great grandchildren: Aiden Maurin, Gabriel Lamb, quadruplets Maryann, Nathaniel, Isaiah and Isabella Lamb, Phoebe, Jonah and Rhys Lamb, and Cameron Monks. Mary’s sister-in-law, Karen, and husband, Stephen Blass, of Pittsburgh, PA and brother-in-law, John Lamb, of Sharon, and sister-in-law, Suzanne Lamb of Cape Elizabeth, ME also survive her. She was predeceased by her sister-in-law, Mary Elizabeth Ameen and her husband, Richard, and her brother-in-law, Arthur Lamb.
Calling hours will be Thursday, November 9, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Kenny Funeral Home, 41 Main St, Sharon, CT.
Funeral services are Friday at 11:00 a.m. at St. Kateri Parish (St. Bernard’s), 52 New Street, Rt 361, Sharon, CT. Burial immediately following in Hillside Cemetery.
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In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to United Cerebral Palsy, https://ucp.org/, Visiting Nurse and Hospice of Litchfield County (SVNA), 30A Salmon Kill Road, Salisbury, CT 06068, or Sharon Fire Department, Inc. Ambulance Squad, PO Box 357, Sharon, CT 06069.
As was typical of Mary, she requested that family and friends do an act of kindness for a stranger.
John Green
WEST CORNWALL - John Franklin Green died November 2nd in New York after a series of health setbacks early in 2023.
John was born on June 2, 1941, in Sutherland, Virginia, to Frank and Mildred Green.
He attended the University of Richmond, where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in accounting in 1962.
Following a tour of duty in the United States Army, John moved to New York City to begin a career with the accounting firm Peat, Marwick, Mitchell (now KPMG), where he worked as a partner until retirement. His employment at Peat included a three-year stint at the company’s Milan, Italy offices from 1972 to 1975.
Beginning in 1977, John split his time between his house in Brooklyn, New York, and his newly acquired weekend home in West Cornwall, Connecticut, where he established full-time residence in 2012.
Always generous with his time, John worked tirelessly on town committees (including several terms as Town of Cornwall Treasurer) and on local boards, especially the Chore Service of Northwestern Connecticut.
John maintained an apartment in Manhattan until his death, enjoying the city and all of the cultural amenities it offers.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, November 6th, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Kenny Funeral Home, 41 Main Street, Sharon, Connecticut.
A private burial will be held at the West Cornwall Cemetery on Tuesday.
John was predeceased by his parents and his sister Charlotte. He is survived by his sister Patricia, his brother Thomas and wife Francine, many nieces and nephews, his partner Rudy Rambarran, friends Tom Bechtle and Don Bachman, and many other relatives and friends. He will be dearly missed by all.
Evelyn Tompkins
SHARON - Evelyn B. Tompkins, 92, of Sharon peacefully passed away on October 11, 2023 at Geer Nursing Facility.
Evelyn was born May 26, 1931 in Sharon, CT to David and Martha Boge. Shortly after her birth, during the Great Depression, the family returned to Norway where she lived until she was 7.
Evelyn graduated from Amenia High School in 1949 and Bryant College business program in 1951.
Evelyn was happily married to Robert “Jolly” Tompkins who predeceased her in 2014.
Evelyn’s greatest joy in life was her family. She rejoiced in her children’s and grandchildren’s accomplishments, both big and small. Evelyn loved spending time with family and her many friends “the more the merrier” and enjoyed cooking, especially her unforgettable brownies. She was always ready to host a celebration!
Evelyn was a secretary, and her favorite job was the many years she spent at Webutuck High School in the Guidance Office. She loved interacting with the students and was always so excited by their college acceptances.
In her spare time she enjoyed many outdoor activities with her family including skiing into her late 70’s, golf, gardening & canning, railfanning, walking and camping. For many years she was a “Reading Buddy” at Sharon Elementary School.
She was an active congregant of the Sharon United Methodist Church where she made many wonderful friends as they volunteered for everything!
Evelyn is survived by her children Stephanie (Jim) Lalli of Cranbury, NJ, David (Pam) McEnroe and Gwyn Myles, both of Vancouver, WA, Chris (Jen) Tompkins of Salisbury, CT, Stepsons Thomas (Becky) Tompkins of Los Altos Hills, CA and John (Ron) Tompkins of St. Petes Beach, FL. She is also survived by a very special niece, Lee McEnroe of Millbrook, NY.
Evelyn is survived by 10 much loved grandchildren Brian and Christopher Lalli, Matthew, Mark, Dana, Ryan, Kaelyn, John and Travis Tompkins and Amanda Schonert as well as 15 great grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Evelyn was predeceased by her son-in-law Lloyd Myles.
A Celebration of Life will be scheduled for a later date.
Memorial donations may be sent to Sharon United Methodist Church, 112 Upper Main St., Sharon, CT 06069.
John Gerli Jr.
SHARON - John Emanuel Gerli Jr., affectionately known as “Jay”, peacefully passed away on Friday Sept 29th at his home in Sharon at the age of 86, CT after living with Parkinson’s disease for 20 years. He is survived by his wife, Margery “Tiggie” Gerli, two siblings Eleanor “Ellie” Gerli and Alexander “Sandy” Gerli, and five children John Gerli III, Margaret “Marnie” Fillingham, Linda Bilowz, Bennett Gerli and Brooks Gerli. His legacy continues through the laughter and love of his 9 grandchildren ranging in age from 1 to 29.
Jay embarked on a remarkable journey that touched the lives of many. An alumnus of the Hotchkiss School ‘56, Jay's pursuit of knowledge led him to serve his country in the US Army in the serene landscapes of Maine, followed by academic studies at Columbia University. Following an early career in bond trading on Wall Street, Jay pursued his entrepreneurial spirit becoming co-owner of Wilt Pruf, a premier organic agricultural product, and with his partner successfully managed and expanded the brand for several decades. As a young father he indulged in a few hobbies to express his love of the outdoors. He sailed with his buddies multiple times in the Newport to Bermuda Race in a classic wooden yacht, fly fished on three different continents with a proficiency in tying his own flies and constructing his own rods, and drove in the winter months through nor’easters, if need be, to Mad River Glen in Vermont with his children introducing the “love of skiing” to them all.
In 1983 he married the love of his life, Margery "Tiggie" Gerli, a partnership that blossomed into new pursuits — raising a second family, relocating to Pawling NY and then Sharon CT and starting a livestock business. An enthusiast of nature's wonders, Jay's sanctuary lay in the rolling hills of Marben Farm where he nurtured Belted Galloway cattle, named for the distinctive white band around their middles, for breeding stock. As he aged he continued with his various passions, reveling in the art of fly fishing, finding tranquility in the ebb and flow of rivers. Jay's nimble hands found joy in the restoration of antique cars, clocks and broken objects, each project a labor of love. His coffee, never enjoyed without a splash of Vermont maple syrup, was a sweet reminder of life's simple pleasures and the warmth he brought to those around him.
Family was truly his lifeline. He was a dedicated husband, adoring father, father-in-law and grandfather. He was extremely proud of his family’s accomplishments and cherished the opportunity to attend his kids and grandkids’ sporting events, music concerts, christenings, first holy communions, confirmations, graduations, and weddings. In fact, just this June, a wheelchair did not slow him down as he lit up the dance floor to celebrate his youngest son, Brooks’s wedding in NYC. He was so very delighted with all of his grandchildren, the smiles they brought him and the endearing look he had when listening to them. We will hold those memories close to our hearts.
A celebration of life service will be held on October 27th at Stanwich Church in Greenwich CT (202 Taconic Rd, Greenwich, CT 06831) at 11am. All are welcome to attend. In leu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
Rita Easton
SHARON - Rita Easton, age 90, Sharon CT, passed away Oct 4, 2023, at Sharon Health Care Center, in Sharon, CT.
Rita was born, Rita Bernard, on September 8, 1933 to Henry and Victoria Bernard in Connecticut and grew up in New Britain.
Rita had a full life working as a model and actress and later as a writer. She moved to NYC to begin her modeling and actress career in her late teens. She became a weekender in South Kent, CT in the 1980’s and later became a resident of Sharon, CT. She had a regular beat reporting about Arts and Antiques for the Newtown Bee.
Rita loved music and the arts and played piano and sang. She enjoyed being part of the Kent Players Theater Group and truly loved her CT home & friends.
She is survived by her son, David Easton, daughter-in-law Kathy Cole Easton of Maplewood, NJ, two grandchildren; Ezekiel and Isabelle and cousins Robert Makoski and Marie Makoski.
A memorial service will be held in her honor in the Spring of 2024.
Marsha Soper
CANAAN - Marsha Constance Soper, 77, passed away October 1 2023, at the Geer Village Skilled Nursing Facility in Canaan, CT.
Marsha was born in Kingston, NY on May 19, 1946; daughter of the late Everitt M. Soper, Jr. and the late Constance (Dalo) Soper.
Marsha was a longtime employee of the New York (Verizon) Telephone Company.
She is survived by a brother, Edward Soper (Helen) of Delray Beach, FL and a sister, Michelle Nerone (Francis) of Lockport, NY. She was predeceased by a sister, Marlena Buley, of Kingston, NY. Marsha was a loving aunt to Michael (MaryBeth) Nerone and their children, Gavin and Griffin; James (Valarie) Nerone and their children Luke, Seth and Naomi; Scott (Divina) Buley and their son Dylan; and John Buley. Marsha was a devoted caregiver to her mother for many years; a good friend to many; and loved helping others.
A private gathering to celebrate Marsha’s life will be held later this year at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Kingston, NY.
Benjamin Moyer
WASSAIC, NY - Benjamin (Ben) Robert Moyer, 65, of Wassaic, NY passed away on October 8, 2023, with his loving longtime girlfriend, Donna Boyles and adoring dog (Baby Girl) at his side. He was a devoted husband to the late Emma (Casey).
Ben was born April 5, 1958 in Sharon CT, the son of the late Harry (Bob) and Gloria Moyer. Ben graduated from Webutuck in 1976.
He was a career licensed mechanic and highly regarded in his trade. Most recently, he was employed at First Student School Bus Company as a mechanic.
Ben had a zest for life and the need for speed. Ben enjoyed riding his motorcycle, attending motorcycle rallies and car shows. When he did relax, he loved vacationing in Maine his girlfriend. He lived every moment to the fullest and was always there to help anyone in need. He had an amazing sense of humor and never seemed to let life, as challenging as it was at times, get him down. Ben loved his dogs and always had a story to tell about them if you had the time to listen. A lifelong friend described him as “Gentle Ben” and that was truly who he was.
He is survived by his siblings, Brad (Shirley) Moyer, Tim (Kitty) Moyer, Carolyn (Bob) Mitchell and numerous nieces and nephews, a great niece, and 3 great nephews. Ben is also survived by his biological daughter, Tracey Beahan. He is predeceased by his biological daughter, Kambi Rennia.
A graveside service will be held at the Amenia Union Cemetery, Leedsville Road, Amenia Union, NY on October 28th@ 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Hudson Valley Animal Rescue, 15 Barnes Dr. Poughkeepsie, NY 12603.
Leigh Miller
SHARON - Leigh Martin Miller died peacefully in his Sharon home on September 28, 2023, with his wife of 57 years, Lynden B. Miller, by his side. He is survived by Lynden, his sister Virginia A. Lyman, his four sons and their spouses Christian (Pascale), Ethan (Eileen), Gifford (Pam) and Marshall (Gail), and his eight grandchildren: Anton, Annaick, Addison, Joshua, Marshall, Whitney, Ella, and Gracie.
Leigh was born in Olympia, Washington on May 22, 1927, the oldest child of Martin Sylvester Miller and Elizabeth Weimar Miller, and brother of sisters Virginia and Elizabeth. Leigh graduated from Olympia High School where his father and mother were teachers. At the age of 17, he traveled 3000 miles east and became the first student from his school to attend Yale University and Yale Law School, from which he graduated in 1948 and 1952 respectively. During this time period, he also served his country with the Navy in 1945 and the Army in Japan in 1952-1953.
Upon returning from Japan, Leigh joined the law firm of Pillsbury Madison & Sutro in San Francisco where he practiced law. In 1961, Leigh began his career in public service when he joined the Kennedy Administration. As the Chief Congressional Liaison for the State Department, he was instrumental in the creation and funding of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). He continued to work in the Federal government under the Johnson Administration until 1968, when he moved to New York City and took a position as Deputy Superintendent of the NYS Banking Department.
Leigh returned to the private sector at J. Henry Schroder Bank & Trust Company in 1970 before he moved to American Express where he became the President of the American Express Export Credit Corporation. After retiring from American Express in 1986, he continued to exercise corporate leadership on the international level as Chair of the International Science and Technology Institute where he advised foreign governments, including helping Sri Lanka to establish its first stock market.
Leigh also spent decades working with non-profit organizations and local government in the city that he loved. He served as secretary of his local Community Board in East Harlem for 25 years and served on or chaired the boards of Planned Parenthood of New York City, South Forty Corporation (which later merged with the Osborne Association) and the New York Public Library, among others. He also served as advisor, business manager, and tireless cheerleader for the extraordinary public garden design career of his wife, Lynden, and was a vigorous advocate and volunteer for the City Council campaigns of his son Gifford. He believed deeply in public service, helping others, and living a life of generosity and kindness.
In addition to all of his life and career accomplishments, Leigh will be remembered for his love of family and friends, his youthful spirit, and his lasting, limitless belief that the glass was half-full and never half-empty.
Information about a memorial service to be held in the next several months will be forthcoming.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Planned Parenthood of New York City or the Osborne Association.
Eunice Hafford
AMENIA, NY - Eunice Adeline Knights Hafford, 88, born in Bangor, Maine, June 30, 1935, died on September 12, 2023 at Vassar Hospital.
She was predeceased by her husband, Bruce Alden Hafford, her parents, Lydia Grass Knights and George Knights of Maine as well as her siblings, Curtis, Ralph, Roger, James, Ruth and Muriel.
Eunice and Bruce gave birth to four boys, Kenneth, Bruce, Mark and Ralph in Maine. They moved from Maine to Wassaic, NY to work for Bruce's brother. After several moves around the area, they gave brith to their daughter, Carol at Sharon Hospital.
Eventually, they both worked at Wassaic Development Center where they retired and finally settled in Amenia, NY.
Eunice loved to cook/bake old family recipes for her family and loved to visit with her loved ones both in Maine and in the local area.
After Bruce passed away, Eunice connected with his best friend growing up, Clair Bragdon (known as "Clair-Boy" and Grandpa Clair to her many grandchildren). Clair's wife had passed away and Eunice and Clair found love and comfort in each other right up to her last day of life. After her death, Clair returned to Maine to be closer to his family. We will miss him so very much.
Eunice is survived by two sisters, Florence Knights Potter, Charolette Knights McIntosh, and a brother, Rodney Knights. Her four sons, Kenneth (Susan) and daughter, Stacey Riemer (Brett) and daughter, Isabella and a son, Owen, Jessica Hafford and daughter Ruby, Shannon Murnane (James) and sons, Cameron and Silas. Bruce (Laurie) and two sons, Bruce (Courtney) and son, Elijah, daughters, Avery and Riley and son, Benjamin and his son Benjamin. Mark (Mary) daughters, Holly and Kassidy and son, Christian. Ralph and daughter, Crystal Rounds (Steven) and sons, Maximus and Alex, a son, Daniel (Michelle) with two sons, George and Theodore and daughter, Anna and daughter, Whitney Hafford. Eunice is also survived by her daughter Carol (Naim).
A private burial will be celebrated at Hillside Cemetery at the convenience of the family.
Cecelia Walters
SALISBURY - Cecelia Theresa Walters, 85, passed away September 25, 2023, at Noble Horizons, after an illness.
Cecelia was born April 15, 1938, to parents Joseph and Marguerite Ryan in Miami, Florida, the youngest of three children. While attending North Miami High School, she worked part time at a local health clinic where she was mentored by a female doctor who helped inspire her to pursue a career in medicine.
Cecelia graduated from Philadelphia General Hospital School of Nursing in 1960 as an RN, launching an over fifty-year career in nursing. She spent most of her career in the OR at St. Elizabeth Hospital in New Jersey and later returned to Florida and enjoyed many years working at a private medical practice.
She was married for 26 years to her late husband Peter Walters. Peter and Cecelia were friends and teammates, often playing crossword puzzles, watching football, taking their boat out on the Indian River, or cooking for friends at their dream home in Vero Beach, Florida. Cecelia was an avid cook and baker, known for her terrific bounty of cookies during the holidays and a much beloved carrot cake.
Cecelia had a legendary raised eyebrow that meant you had caught her attention. Known as ‘Ceil’ to her friends and ‘Baby’ to her family, she will be dearly missed.
She is survived by her daughter, Michele; stepchildren, Peter and Darcy; seven grandchildren, Chelsea, Corey, Desiree, Bella, Rachel, Jeremy and Jessica; 4 nieces and nephews, June, Chris, Karen and Bobbie; her faithful cat companion, Simba and other friends and relatives. She was predeceased by her son, Harry Jr., brother, Joey, sister, Marjo, and nephew Charlie.
Services are private. Memorial contributions may be made to The Little Guild, 285 Sharon-Goshen Road, West Cornwall, CT. 06796.
Joseph Kenny
BURKE, VA - Retired Lt. Colonel Timothy Joseph “Joe” Kenny, a resident of Burke, VA, peacefully passed away on September 20, 2023, at his residence.
He was the devoted husband of the late Ann Stukhart Kenny, and they shared 36 years of happiness together.
He is survived by his son Grant Kenny, Grant’s wife Amanda “Mandy” Kenny, and their cherished granddaughter Finley Kenny.
Joe was born on December 14th, 1955, in Sharon, CT, to the late William T. Kenny and Geraldine M. Kenny.
He graduated from Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village, CT, as part of the Class of 1974. Joe earned his bachelor's degree from LaSalle College in Philadelphia, PA, in the Class of 1978. He furthered his education by obtaining a Master's in Instructional Design from the University of Louisville in Kentucky.
Joe dedicated 20 years of his life to serving in the U.S. Army as an armor officer, actively participating in Operation Desert Storm. His service encompassed numerous leadership roles and staff assignments, earning him numerous combat service commendations. He continued to serve his country through various roles in multiple Department of Defense contractor agencies, with his final stint being at Booz-Allen Hamilton, where he worked as a Senior Consultant for over two decades.
Outside of work, Joe beloved by many for his extraordinary wisdom, boundless kindness, and steadfast dedication to his faith. Apart from attending Sunday Mass, he volunteered as a CCD teacher and faithfully listened to the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Mass on the radio every day. He enjoyed walks with his three schnauzers Watson, Emma, and Maggie. Much of his time was devoted to playing Fantasy Football with his son, mentoring and entertaining his neighbors' six children, and embarking on worldly adventures, whether for work or pleasure, alongside Ann.
He was always involved in his son’s life by coaching baseball, supporting his swimming, or going on campouts through Grant’s Boy Scout Experience.
In addition to his son, he is survived by his siblings Mari Louise Torrant and husband Don of Norfolk, CT, William T. Kenny Jr. and wife Deborah of Monument, CO, predeceased by sister Dena Solan and husband Richard of Canaan, CT., Brian Kenny and wife Theresa Kenny of Sharon, CT, and Sean Kenny and wife Anne Dunn of Ashley Falls, MA. He is also remembered fondly by his many nieces and nephews on both the Kenny and Weart side of the family.
Visitation hours will be held on Thursday, October 5th, from 5-8 PM at the Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, located at 9902 Braddock Road, Fairfax, VA 22032. A Catholic Mass will be celebrated the following day, October 6th, at 11 AM at Nativity Catholic Church in Burke, VA. Internment with full military honors will take place at Arlington National Cemetery on a date to be determined.
Joe's memory will live on in the hearts of all those whose lives he touched, and his legacy of service and love will be cherished forever.
Karen Parsons
SALISBURY - Karen Ann Parsons, 71, of Salisbury, Connecticut, died on September 20, 2023, at Noble Horizons in
Salisbury. A near life-long resident of Salisbury, Karen was a loving and dedicated educator, parent, grandparent, and great-grandparent.
Born May 20, 1952, in Sharon, CT, she was the daughter of the late Hjordis (Christensen) and Richard E. Parsons of Salisbury, Connecticut.
Karen graduated in 1969 from Housatonic Valley Regional High School. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from University of New Hampshire, and later received a master’s in education from Lesley University. After student teaching and working at Salisbury Bank and Trust, she taught home economics and computers and technology at Maplebrook School for close to three decades. During her tenure at Maplebrook, Karen touched the lives of numerous students as a teacher and mentor. She was also a faithful parishioner of the Congregational Church of Salisbury, where she taught Sunday school.
In recent years, Karen participated in activities sponsored by the Salisbury Historical Society and was an energetic member of the community at Noble Horizons.
She is survived by her daughter, Kristina (Josh) Lattrell, and son Michael (Michelle) Brenes; brother John Richard (Deborah) Parsons; granddaughters Taylor Maranzano and Leah Casey; grandsons Lucas Casey and Nathan Brenes; step-grandchildren Jake Lattrell and Derek Lattrell; great-granddaughter Brooke
Slater; nephews John Parsons and Paul Parsons and their families; and niece Sarah Parsons. She was pre-deceased by her brother, George Parsons.
The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Noble Horizons who took care of Karen for the past seven years, and who helped make Noble her home.
A graveside service will be celebrated on Friday, September 29 at 11:00 at the Salisbury Cemetery in Salisbury, CT.
In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Karen can be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research at give.michaeljfox.org or P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741.
Erma Wathley
KENT - Erma C. Wathley, 92, of Kent, CT, passed away July 21st , 2023.
Erma was born to the late Ceylon and Rachel Caulfield.
Erma was predeceased by her husband Edward Wathley.
Erma was a retired medical secretary. In her free time, she loved playing solitaire and watching Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune as well as an advid NASCAR fan.
Erma is survived by her two children, Son Kenneth Wathley (Terry) of Wingdale, NY and daughter Estelle Wathley of Kent, CT.
Erma is also survived by 3 granddaughters, Samantha Wathley (Steve) of SC, Sabrina Parent (Tim) of NY , and April Wathley of CT. In addition to grandchildren, Erma is also survived by 6 great grandchildren Skylar, Brittney, Braiden, Bentley, Gavin, and Hayden.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Kent, CT food bank.
Florence Barnes
SHARON - Florence Connelly Barnes died peacefully at Noble Horizons in Salisbury, CT on Tuesday, September 5th, 2023.
She was born in Boston, Massachusetts on April 26, 1932, she was predeceased by parents Gerald S. and Jane Oswald Connelly Florence and is survived by her cousins James H. Carney (Laurie), Peter Carney and Elizabeth Lally Griesmer.
Her family home was in Chestnut Hill, outside of the greater metropolitan area of Boston. She attended The Newton Country Day School of the Sacred Heart, Newton College of the Sacred Heart and The Instituto Lorenzo de Medici in Florence, Italy and The Katherine Gibbs School in Boston.
Florence became the personal assistant to Dorothy Rogers, wife of acclaimed Broadway composer Richard Rogers of Rogers & Hammerstein fame and served as a collaborating assistant editor of her book The House in My Head published in 1967.
Florence moved from Boston to New York City where she became active in the real estate business with Brown Harris Stevens.
In 1966 she married Earl Barnes at St. Jean Baptiste, New York City, they were married for 50 years until his death in Sharon, CT.
In 1979 Florence and Earl purchased a country house in Sharon where they eventually moved full time after Earl retired as a Special Agent at the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States of Justice. They were active in the local community and the Sharon Country Club where they were members for over 35 years and as a member of the Sharon Women’s Club.
A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Church, 76 Sharon Road, Lakeville, CT in the parish of St. Martin of Tours on Monday September 11 at 11 o’clock.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the GARDNER CARNEY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AT FOUNTAIN VALLEY SCHOOL, 6155 Fountain Valley School Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80911 – 719-391-5349 (info@gclileadership.org) or the Sharon Historical Society & Museum, P.O. Box 511, Sharon, CT 06069 (www.sharonhist.org).
Dorothy McWilliams
SHARON - Dorothy Christine McWilliams died peacefully at home, in Sharon, CT, August 31st, 2023, surrounded by her friends. She was 85.
Dorothy was adopted at one month old by Samuel J McWilliams and Margaret Dorothy (Hughes) McWilliams, residing in Hollis, Queens, New York.
Dorothy was on her own by age 21. Dorothy then moved to Patchogue, Long Island, entering the nursing program at St. Joseph's Memorial Hospital, earning her LP . Her career as an LP spanned 35 years, primarily at Huntington Hospital, retiring at 62.
On the recommendation of some friends, Dorothy moved to Sharon, CT in 2002 and bought her first house. Dorothy was a communicant at St. Bernard's Church, now part of St. Kateri Tekakwitha Parish. Dorothy fulfilled her dream, as altar server for 20 plus years. Dorothy was awarded the St. Joseph medal, for church service in 2020, by the Archdiocese of Hartford.
Dorothy was devoted to the residents of the local healthcare facilities, assisting them in many ways. Dorothy brought the Eucharist to Catholics at Sharon Hospital, Sharon Health Care, Noble Horizons, Geer Memorial and the homebound in our community. She went to the healthcare center to say the rosary and assist with monthly mass. She also accompanied the residents when they went shopping in Torrington.
Dorothy's lifelong passion of volunteerism extended to raising funds for the Crop Walk to defeat local and world hunger. She was the top money earner for several years, earning her " The Golden Sneaker Award".
After she stopped driving in 2019, Dorothy became an avid walker out of necessity. On her daily excursions, she met many new friends in her travels, including lots of dogs. She became very popular with her furry friends, treating them to dog biscuits. She treasured all animals.
A mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Bernard Church, 52 New Street, Sharon, CT, Friday, September 8th, at 11 am.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations in her name to VNA/Hospice of Litchfield County, 32 Union Street, Winsted, CT 06008.
William Morehouse
SHARON- William James Morehouse, “Billy”, 59, passed away August 20th, 2023. Billy was born September 21st, 1963 in Sharon, CT., the son of James and Avis Morehouse.
Billy was a man of many talents which led him to audio engineering school and to owning his own landscaping company. His keen eye for detail and aesthetic acumen eventually landed him a successful construction business.
Billy is survived by his four children; sons Dylan, William Jr., and Lyndon, and his daughter Elizabeth, all with whom he had with Debra Vall, along with his two sisters, Kathleen & Diane, his father Jim, and his grandson Odin.
He is predeceased by his two brothers, Peder & Gary, and his mother, Avis.
Billy was always able to put a smile on your face, whether you liked it or not.
Carol Knutson
SHARON - Carol Ann Knutson of 482 Cornwall Bridge Road passed away August, 26, 2023 in late of Ernest Richard Knutson.
Carol was born on Christmas Day 1942, in Bridgeport, CT. She was the only child of the late Arthur Bendler and Stephanie Dziadik.
Carol graduated from Seymour High School. She worked as a secretary in multiple lumber yards, and at the Housatonic Valley Regional High School assistants principles office.
Carol was an outstanding bowler and enjoyed volunteering. She volunteered at the Bargin Barn and American Legion in Sharon. She was also a member at the Grange in Sharon. She enjoyed going for walks with her sons and grandchildren.
She is survived by her sons Richard and Stephen as well as step children Brenda and Curt. She will be missed by her four grandchildren Michael, Eli, Gloria, and Erik.
A graveside service will be held at 12:00pm on Tuesday, August 29th at Ellsworth Cemetery in Sharon, CT, followed by a gathering at the Congregational Church Community House, Kent (behind the church).
Linda Clark
OAK GROVE, MO - Linda Lou Mary Clark passed away peacefully on August 21, 2023 in Oak Grove, Missouri. She was born August 15, 1947, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, to Frances Mildred (Grace) and Joseph Daniels.
Linda Lou was an alumni of Pittsfield High School graduating class of 1965. She enlisted into the Army and received her Licensing Practicing Nurse certificate. She served during Vietnam and received an Honorable discharge, at the rank of SGT.
Linda Lou married Donald Andrew Clark and resided in Norfolk where they raised their two children, Heather Lin (Gaghan) and Donald Joseph. Linda Lou continued her nursing career working at Ann’s Nursery For Babies and Winsted Hospital.
After moving to Florida, she took a position with the Transportation Security Administration as a security officer at the Tampa International Airport and again served our country with pride until her retirement in Summer of 2014. Retirement enabled Linda Lou to become part of a volunteer program at the local soup kitchen donating her time to those in need, expanding on her love for gardening and growing flowers, visiting with friends and family, and traveling with her companion Luis Insignares while visiting military bases along the way.
Linda Lou is preceded in death by her husband Donald Joseph and her brother Thomas Galloway.
She is survived by her children Heather Lin Gaghan and Donald Joseph Clark; her son-in-law Tom Gaghan and daughter-in-law Angela Clark; 4 grandchildren, Amanda, Lauren, Mason and Arabella.
Visitation will be held at Kenny Funeral Home in Sharon, Connecticut, Wednesday, August 30th, from 5:00-7:00pm.
The family asks in lieu of flowers, that donations be sent to the Joy of the Gospel St. Matthew Catholic Church, 9111 90th Ave, Largo, FL 33777; or online at https://www.osvhub.com/stmat/giving/funds/pinellas-hope-project in her honor.
Richard Siebenter
SHARON - Richard Michael Siebenaler, 82, of Fairchild Road died at the Geer Nursing and Rehab Center in North Canaan. He was the husband of the late Tami Lee Siebenaler.
Richard was born in Hastings, MN on February 13, 1941 the son of the late Michael and Florence Pasch Siebenaler. He was a Steel worker most of his life. He enjoyed fishing, playing cards and loved watching his western shows.
Richard is survived by his daughter by his daughter Lisa Peterson and son Mark Siebenaler. He is also survived by a sister Lou Ann Caneff , two brothers Laverne and James Siebenaler and his grandchildren Michael Siebenaler, Ashley Siebenaler, Kaitlyn Siebenaler, and Robert Rice.
All services are private. Memorial contributions may be made to the Michael J Fox Parkinson Research Foundation at www.michaeljfox.org.
James Buckley
SHARON - James L. Buckley, who spent most of his life in Sharon, Connecticut, died in Washington, D.C., on Friday, August 18th. He was 100 years old. He died of natural causes.
Mr. Buckley was born in New York City on March 9, 1923, the fourth of the ten children of William F. and Aloise Steiner Buckley.
He was the husband of the late Ann Cooley Buckley and the father of six children.
He grew up in Sharon, received his undergraduate degree from Yale in the fall of 1943, was commissioned as a U.S. Naval Reserve officer the following April, and served in the Pacific theater in World War II. Following his discharge, he entered Yale Law School from which he graduated in 1949. He then worked for four years with the New Haven law firm of Wiggin & Dana and the next seventeen with a family corporation that provided a variety of services to a group of oil and gas exploration companies operating outside the United States.
In 1968 he was asked by the Conservative Party of New York to serve as its pro forma candidate for election to the United States Senate. Although he ran on a shoestring budget, he received more than a million votes. As a result of this experience, he sought the party’s nomination in 1970 and succeeded in winning election with 40 percent of the vote in a three-way race, the first third-party candidate to be elected to the Senate in 40 years.
During his six years in office, he was a member of the Republican caucus and was particularly active in the areas of the environment, foreign affairs, and energy. In 1974, he managed to upset his conservative base by calling for President Nixon’s resignation during the course of the Watergate hearings; and in 1975, he outraged his constituency by opposing a federal bailout for New York City when it was facing bankruptcy. In 1976, he lost his bid for reelection to Daniel Patrick Moynihan.
Mr. Buckley returned to public life in 1981, when President Reagan asked him to serve as Under Secretary of State for Security Assistance, a position concerned with the administration of military- and economic-assistance programs. He left the State Department in December 1982 to assume the presidency of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Inc. in Munich, West Germany. Those radios broadcast in 21 languages to the Communist nations of Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union. In December 1985, Mr. Buckley was appointed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, which made him one of the few individuals to have held high office in all three branches of the federal government. He continued to serve in that position until 2000.
Mr. Buckley had a lifelong interest in birds and natural history, and for many years participated in the Sharon Audubon Center’s annual Christmas and spring bird counts. In 1982, he received the United Nations Environment Programme Award for Outstanding Environmental Leadership.
In the late 1970s, he served as a radio commentator for the Westinghouse radio syndicate and National Public Radio’s “All Things Considered” program. He was also the author of four books: “If Men Were Angels: A View from the Senate” (1974), “Gleanings from an Unplanned Life” (2006), “Freedom at Risk” (2010), and “Saving Congress from Itself” (2014).
Mr. Buckley is survived by his daughter, Priscilla, sons Peter, Jay, Bill, David, and Andrew, eight grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. His funeral mass will be held at St. Bernard’s Church in Sharon at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 24th. There will be a memorial service in Washington, D.C, to be scheduled at a later date.
Contributions in his memory may be made to the Sharon Audubon Society or the Sharon Historical Society.
Geoffrey Gott
LAKEVILLE - Geoffrey M. Gott, age 62, of Lakeville passed away peacefully on August 7, 2023 at his home.
Geoff was born on August 28, 1960 in New Orleans, LA, to the late Dr. Peter H. Gott of Lakeville and Nancy Beaird Gott of Houston, TX.
He attended Salisbury Central School before the family relocated and later returned to attend Salisbury Boys School.
Geoff was a beloved therapist in the northwest corner. He received his BA in Psychology from the University of Houston and his Masters of Psychology from Phillips Graduate Institute in Encino, CA before moving back to Lakeville in 2008.
He is survived by his beloved daughter, Morgan McAdam Gott, his former wife of over 30 years, Connie, his mother, Nancy, brothers Christopher of Houston, TX and Benjamin of Fairfield, CT, and his step sister, Kathryn “Beth” Waaitkus of Oakland, CA.
Geoff was a devoted father to his daughter, Morgan. He was a lover of the arts, an avid reader of the classics and history, and an accomplished golfer and tennis player. He loved cars and animals. Quick to lend a compassionate and supportive ear, Geoff was a friend to many and touched the lives of clients and friends alike. He will be greatly missed by his local community and beyond.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, August 21, 2023 from 4:00 - 6:00 pm at the Black Rabbit Bar and Grill, 2 Ethan Allen St, in Lakeville. All are welcome.
The family would like to thank Brian Kenny and Kenny Funeral Home for their compassionate care and support during this difficult time.
Mary Rogers
SALISBURY - Mary Elizabeth Rogers, known as “Biz”, passed away peacefully August 7, 2023, at Noble Horizons in Salisbury, CT. She was the loving wife of the late Edward Robert Rogers.
Biz was born in Iowa Falls, Iowa on June 3, 1925, the daughter of Winifred Brereton and Harold Barzilla Hall. Her family later moved to Ames, Iowa and she was the drum majorette for Ames High School. In 1947 she graduated from Stanford University in Palo Alto, CA, as a political science major. She moved to San Francisco and completed a retailer training program, then made her way to NY to board the RMS Queen Mary for a voyage to England. She and a group of women friends traveled through post-World War II Europe and then returned to NY City, where she decided to stay.
Upon her return, while working at Bamberger’s department store Biz met her husband Ted. They married in June 1952, in Ames, Iowa, and lived in Manhattan.
Later they moved to Alpine, NJ, where they had three children, then moved to Basel, Switzerland for a year. Upon returning from Switzerland the family settled in Montclair, NJ where Biz later became a travel agent. She and her family moved to Weston, CT many years later, and she became manager of Minute Man Travel, often traveling with Ted to the far reaches of the globe on ‘familiarization’ trips.
Biz had a passion for golf and was the Women’s Champion in 1969 at the Great Chebeague Island Golf Club in Maine, where the family spent summers. She loved to garden and was a longtime member of The Millbrook Garden Club.
Biz is survived by a close knit family, including three adoring children, Geoffrey, Dorian and Jonathan, and their spouses May, Tom and Monica, five grandchildren: Eve, Caitlyn, Julia, Mallory and Celine; and her loving sister Josephine Poling of Wayzata, MN; and nieces and nephews Olivia, Bret, Stephen, Chandler and Julie. Her brother ‘Bud” (Howard Brereton Hall) predeceased her.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 9th at 10am at Trinity Church Lime Rock in Lakeville, CT. A reception will follow. Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Chebeague Island Historical Society.
Victor Fulco Jr.
SHARON - Victor Peter Fulco Jr, 84, of 3 Rolling Hills Dr, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2023. Peter was born November 21, 1938 in Canaan, CT and was the son of the late Victor Sr. and Lena (Zucco) Fulco.
He graduated from Housatonic Valley Regional High School in 1956. He was involved in the Apparatus Club and Intramurals. He was on the football and track teams. Pete was a pole vaulter and affectionately nicknamed “Twinkle Toes.” Peter held the school record with a vault of 10’, 6” (landing in sawdust), capturing first place in the State meet. This also was a record for Housatonic Valley League.
He served in the US Army for 6 years. He achieved the rank of Sargent (T) E-5 and was in B company. He was stationed in Alaska
He was an electrician and plumber by trade. He worked for Wm. Perotti and Sons, then eventually retired from Connecticut Light and Power.
Peter loved going to Vermont for get-aways with life long high school friends who remember him fondly to this day. He was a great friend to all who knew him. Pete loved to play cribbage. If you played with him, you better know how to count to 15 fast, and you better not be watching TV!
Pete was very proud of the home he built in Sharon. Pete had a talent for fixing things. Pete enjoyed rebuilding player pianos, and configuring them to become electronic. He enjoyed woodworking, making many toys for his grandchildren. He loved to go to the flying fields and fly his model airplanes. He was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed skiing, fishing, hunting, and gardening. He was also an antique car enthusiast. He would frequently drive his Model T Ford in local parades, dressing the part, with his black derby hat. He umpired Little Leagues games and liked watching professional baseball games, especially the Tampa Bay Rays. He was an avid fan of the UCONN Woman’s basketball (and dont call the house when they are playing!)
Pete was involved with St Bernard’s church and he especially loved helping out with the lobster bakes. This also coincided with his love for eating lobster. He was involved in Salisbury Winter Sports Association, helping to build the ski tow at the hill. One of the greatest gifts he gave his children was asking if we wanted to try something. Whether it was softball, horseback riding, snowmobiling, water skiing or going off the ski jumps in Salisbury, he would always uphold our interests and be fully supportive. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and taking them for ice cream.
He is survived by his two devoted daughters Gail Fulco Tantorski, (Edward), of North Haven, CT, Gwen Fulco (Mark) of Basking Ridge, NJ, . his three grandchildren: Abigail Jake and Brooke and his brother Richard (Marge) (Pittsfield MA).
A graveside service will be held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, North Canaan, CT on Thursday, August 3 at 10am. All other services are private. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sharon Volunteer Ambulance, . P.O.Box 357 Sharon, CT 06069.
Galina Shutova
Galina Shutova, 84, passed away July 17, 2023.
Galina was born on December 20, 1938 in Arkhangelsk, Russia.
She was a lifelong educator who designed early childhood education programs.
After retirement, she spent most of her time with her grandchildren and gardening.
She is survived by two daughters, Irina and Elena, and three grandchildren, Evan, Ian, and Lukas. Her gentle nature, smile, and kindness will be in our hearts forever.
Jane Tuttle
CHARLOTTE, NC - Mrs. Jane Louise Tuttle, a resident of Aldersgate Retirement Community, Charlotte, NC, died peacefully on July 13, 2023, at Harris Hospice Unit at Novant Health Presbyterian Hospital, Charlotte, NC.
Jane was born June 13, 1926, in Harford, CT. She was the daughter of the late Culver H. Kennedy and Helen Ruth Capewell Kennedy, and was preceded in death by her husband, George W. Tuttle and daughter, Anne Louise Tuttle Roller, and step sister, Jeannette Jessen Smith of Riverton, CT.
Jane grew up in the town of Windsor, CT. After graduating from the John Fitch High School, she attended the Hartford Branch of UCONN and worked as a laboratory technician in the Outpatient Department of the Hartford Hospital for 12 ½ years. On May 24, 1956, she was married to George Webster Tuttle and they lived in the Salisbury/Lakeville area for 47 years. After their daughter graduated from the Hotchkiss School, Jane volunteered at the Scoville Memorial Library and became a member of the staff for 25 years.
Reflecting her interests and hobbies, Mrs. Tuttle was active in several local organizations as a member of the Mary Floyd Tallmadge Chapter of the DAR in Litchfield, CT, League of Women Voters, Salisbury Public Health Nursing Association, Secretary of the Salisbury Girl Scouts, Secretary of the Lakeville Pony Club, and member of the Kennedy Society of America. She especially enjoyed singing in church choirs, the Salisbury Community Choir and was a member of the Litchfield County Choral Union for 18 years.
George and Jane were members of Trinity Episcopal Church Lime Rock where Jane served on the Vestry and was Junior Warden. She was also a member of the Pastoral Assistance Team, member of the choir and Altar Guild. She was a licensed Chalice Bearer and Lay Eucharistic Minister in the Diocese of CT. In Charlotte, she and George were members of St. Martin's Episcopal Church.
In 2003, Jane and George moved to the Aldersgate Retirement Community in Charlotte to be near their daughter and son-in-law. While residing at Aldersgate, Jane experienced the joy and pleasure of basket weaving and researching her family genealogy to discover her deep ancestral roots in CT and New England, originating in England and Scotland.
Mrs. Tuttle is survived by her beloved cousin of George's family, Marnie MacLean of Ancram, NC, and by her stepbrother Elliott Jessen of Riverton, CT. Also surviving is James C. Roller, husband of her late daughter, Anne.
A Memorial Service in Thanksgiving for the Life of Jane Louise Tuttle will be held at 2 pm. on Saturday, July 22 in the Fellowship Hall of Aldersgate Retirement Community, 3800 Shamrock Dr., Charlotte, NC 28215, officiated by the Rev. Karen Moore, Retired Chaplain of Aldersgate. For those who cannot attend, the service will be live streamed to: https://youtu.be/aygzG89qXmM
A Service of Christian Burial will be held on September 30, 2023, at 11 AM at the Trinity Episcopal Church, 484 Lime Rock Road, Lakeville, CT. The Rev. Heidi Truax, Rector, will be officiating. Interment will be at the Lime Rock Cemetery Columbarium.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Little Guild of Saint Francis, 285 Sharon-Goshen Turnpike, West Cornwall, CT 06796, or The Lakeville Pony Club, PO Box 61, Salisbury, CT 06039, or Novant Health Foundation, Presbyterian Medical Center, 220 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28204.
Peter Coley
CAMBRIDGE, MA - Peter Bradley Coley, age 60, died at home in Cambridge, MA, on May 27, 2023, after a four-year, hard-fought battle with glioblastoma multiforme.
Peter was born in Hartford, CT on January 16, 1963, the son of two physicians. His father, Geoffrey M. Coley, was a surgeon and his mother, Mary S. Coley, a pediatrician and child psychiatrist. He was the grandson of Bradley L. Coley, an oncology surgeon, and the great-grandson of William B. Coley, a surgeon and pioneer of immunotherapy.
Peter chose a different career path which led to a professional life in financial management, most recently serving as a Senior Financial Advisor at Citizens Investments Services. His family legacy of medicine and science informed his interest in the promise of biopharmaceutical companies to harness the immune system.
Peter graduated from Loomis Chaffee in 1981, and earned a BA in English Literature from Colby College in 1986 after a Katz Fellowship through Brown University teaching ex-guerilla soldiers in Zimbabwe, a life changing chapter in his life and the beginning of his love story with Africa. Peter's inquisitive intellect and passion for the natural world could be found in learning about birds and mimicking their sounds, fly fishing pilgrimages to the Riviere Cascapédia in Quebec for salmon, and joining a scientific research expedition in Kamchatka, Russia for the Wild Salmon Center. As a wildlife enthusiast and conservationist, he guided bird watching and fishing tours in his cherished Block Island, RI, and supported many organizations, including the Atlantic Salmon Federation, the New England Salmon Association, Boston Fly Casters, and the Charles River Conservancy.
A man of many talents, he put his athletic abilities to good purpose. An avid skier and downhill racer, he founded the ski team at Colby College. He was proud to be a shareholder of America's only skier-owned mountain, Mad River Glen, VT, where he was a ski instructor. He ran seven marathons, five in Boston, raising funds for cancer research. He went on a 100-mile bike trek for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Peter had an endearing quality of connecting with people and making friends at light speed anywhere in the world, whether in French, Swahili, or Jamaican patois. This included his serendipitous meeting with his wife-to-be, Sandrine H. Deschaux, at the Charles Street T stop in 1999. His skills, pursuits, and favorites included photography, writing, singing, sketching, painting, acting, watching old movies, Christmas, his community garden, Bob Marley, Jeopardy, etc.
Peter was a curious spirit, a witty mind with a sharp memory, a thrill-seeking adventurer, inspirational man with an immense integrity and faith in life. He will be remembered as an adoring, uplifting father and Papa Bear to Juliette S. Coley, and a loving empowering husband to Sandrine.
He is survived by his brother Christopher M. Coley and his wife, Diane Suda; his sister, Susan L. Coley; his nephews, Alex Coley and Sam Audette; his uncle, Pete Coley; many cousins; his families in France, the Deschaux and Clavels; and the many friends throughout the world who were enriched by his love of life.
Peter wants us to remember that we shall love, give thanks, and praise. So be it.
A Private Memorial Service will be held.
Please consider making a remembrance to The Wild Salmon Center (wildsalmoncenter.org), led by his close friend Guido Rahr, or the Cancer Research Institute, co-founded by his great aunt Helen Coley Nauts (cancerresearch.org).
Estelle Gorkofsky
SHARON - Estelle Leah Gorkofsky (née Gurfein), age 92, of Sharon, died on June 15, 2023. She was the loving wife of the late Samuel Gorkofsky.
Estelle was born on February 19, 1931, in Brooklyn, NY, the daughter of the late Dora (Safenovitz) and Samuel Gurfein. She was raised in Brooklyn and attended Thomas Jefferson High School and Brooklyn College. Estelle was an executive for a greeting card company in Manhattan before her marriage. In 1958, Estelle married her devoted, loving husband of almost 59 years, Sam, and moved to his home and dairy farm in Sharon. She became a fabulous farmer’s wife.
Estelle had two children, Terri and Kevin, whom she adored. She raised her family and worked side by side with Sam, working on the business side of the dairy farm while also working for the Sharon Water Commission. Estelle was an avid bridge player and loved being a Justice of the Peace for the Town of Sharon.
In 1997, Estelle had a major stroke leaving her in need of full-time care. Sam was Estelle’s sole caregiver for twenty years until his death in 2017. Although no one could look after her like her husband, her daughter and son took over after his death allowing her to cherish special memories with her family until her death. Although her body was paralyzed, her mind remained sharp in the more than a quarter century following her stroke. Her family was grateful to experience her love, laughter, wit and losing to her at cards. Estelle’s strength and positivity in the face of a devastating life altering illness gave her family strength and positivity.
Estelle is lovingly survived by her daughter, Terri Kravitz and her husband Steve of New York, NY, son, Kevin and his wife Judy of Simsbury, CT, her six grandchildren, Joshua (Alice) and Adam Kravitz and Andrea, Victoria (Kyle), Luke and Sara Gorkofsky, her sister Roz Kozminsky, and nephews and nieces, Mark (Denise), Ann (Steve), Marvin (Joy), Joyce (Phil), Carol (Aaron) and Jeffrey. She was predeceased by her husband Samuel Gorkofsky.
Memorial contributions in Estelle’s honor may be made to the Sharon Fire Department and Ambulance Squad, P.O. Box 357, Sharon, CT 06069 or to Congregation Beth David, P.O. Box 125, 3344 East Main Street, Amenia, NY 12501 or to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.
Claudia Lamb
SHARON - Claudia Lamb, who was born February 9, 1947, to Claude and Marjorie Golden in Sharon Connecticut, passed away on Monday, July 10, 2023, at Sharon Hospital.
Claudia graduated from Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village, Connecticut. In addition to participating in the Sharon Band, she joined the local girl scouts as a child. Claudia managed the Sharon CAP program which focused on young adults ages 13 to 16, who worked directly with the local elderly community and managed the Little Rascals Day camp in Sharon. Claudia was a foster mother for the Bethany Christian services for 5 years, where she fostered 13 babies from birth to adoption.
Mrs. Lamb devoted her adult life to her children and the youth of the surrounding communities. Claudia took great pride in being an amazing mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Her door was always open, and you never left her house with an empty belly.
Claudia was known to many as “Mom” or “Nanny”. Whether a member of the local teen center or a player at the local baseball game, no one got away without a hug and smile. She made sure that everyone she met knew two things quickly; One, she was a hugger and two, never say “that” word. She had a fearless way about herself that would melt the hearts of some of the toughest and roughest.
Claudia is predeceased by her father Claude Golden, mother Marjorie Golden, brother Dale Golden, and grandchild Casey Snyder. She will be remembered and missed by her husband John Lamb, her children Charles Snyder, Ryan Snyder, Jason Snyder, Brian Lamb, Matthew Lamb, Millisa Castagna, Richard Corbett, and her 18 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.
Calling hours will be at Kenny Funeral Home 41 Main St, Sharon, CT from 11am to 1pm on Saturday July 22nd, followed by a Celebration of Life from 2pm to 6pm to be held at the American Legion 155 US-44, Millerton, NY.
In leu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that you send donations to Bethany Christian Services at bethany.org
Jean Bryant
CORNWALL - Jean (known by all as “Jill”) Calhoun Bacon Bryant, age 93, of Valley Road, passed away July 5, 2023, at Sharon Hospital. She was the widow of Jack Walsworth Bryant, who died in January of 2020.
Jill was born May 29, 1930 in Morristown, NJ, the daughter of the late Alfred Howe Terry Bacon and Jean Ellinwood Calhoun Bacon.
In 1947, she graduated from Hopkins Grammar School in New Haven, and then earned a BA from Mount Holyoke College in 1951 and an MS in Library Science from Columbia University in 1954.She met her husband Jack while working at the Enoch Pratt Library in Baltimore in 1957, and they married in Cornwall on October 11, 1958. Jill spent the 1960’s devoting her time to raising her sons Chuck (b.1961) and Dave (b.1964), before eventually returning to work as a school librarian in the mid-1970’s. In 1988, she returned to Connecticut to live in her childhood home (“Haywards”, the home of Cornwall's haywarden in the 1870’s) and worked at the Berkshire School library in Sheffield until her retirement in 1995.
She spent the next 28 years living the quiet country life she'd always treasured, taking walks up and down the valley, puttering about in her garden and arranging flowers, and reading and napping on her beloved back porch overlooking the brook and Coltsfoot Mountain beyond. In their retirement, Jack and Jill spent a good deal of time traveling to the great houses of the Hudson Valley and to Europe.
In the summers, she served as the cornerstone of the annual pilgrimage to the family Camp in the Adirondacks, passing on ancestral tales to the next generation, and in 2020 at the age of 90, she beat her father’s record by a year and became the oldest in the family ever to visit the remote camp. Like her father, she spent a good deal of time poring over voluminous family letters, diaries, and ancestral charts from the 19th century, befriending scholars in Japan, and taking enough notes to fill a book that she never wrote. She volunteered at the Historical Society, at the Cornwall Library, and at the Women’s Society of the Congregational Church.
In her last 35 years at Haywards, she must have baked thousands of cookies, as a gesture of good will and appreciation for many different residents of Cornwall, but she was especially fond of feeding cookies to her grandchildren, who gathered around her for vacation weeks in the summer and for all the winter holidays.
She is survived by her sister, Marjorie Ellinwood Bacon Gracey (age 87) of Cornwall, her sons and their wives Rhys and Kempley, and her 5 grandchildren: Bethany, Helena, Benjamin, Lincoln, and Daisy.
A memorial service will be held at the United Church of Christ in Cornwall at the Cornwall Village Meeting House at a date still to be determined.
Memorial contributions may be made to the United Church of Christ and/or the Cornwall Volunteer Fire Department.
Ronald McNamee
NORFOLK - It is with great sadness that the family of RONALD JAMES McNAMEE, 78, of Norfolk, CT announces his passing on July 2, 2023, at Hartford Hospital with his wife of 54 years, Marybeth Yeagher McNamee, by his side.
He was predeceased by his parents James and Collette McNamee of Wethersfield, CT.
Ron graduated from Wethersfield High School and Central Connecticut State University and worked at the Travelers Insurance Company for 25 years before starting his own business, Northwest Hills Business Services. Ron served in the U.S. Army Reserves. He was a longtime parishioner at Immaculate Conception Church and an active member of the Men’s Club. He gladly served on town commissions throughout the years. He and Marybeth spent 40 years renovating a 1765 Gambrel Dutch Colonial farmhouse which proudly received National Historic Register designation. Ron lovingly cared for a small apple orchard with the intent of giving away all the apples plus making apple pies and sauce for serving to friends. He enjoyed making apple boxes for friends so they could come to pick and socialize amongst the trees. Ron was a man with a quick wit, a curious mind and skills to fix almost anything.
Besides his wife, Ron is survived by his beloved children, Sarah McNamee Pfiester DVM and her husband Martin of Liberty Township, OH and Thomas Patrick McNamee and his wife Heather Hegedus McNamee of Westwood, MA and his much loved and his greatest joys, his four grandchildren: Adeline Rose Pfiester and Benjamin James Pfiester of OH and Brooks William McNamee and Madison Elaine McNamee of MA. He leaves behind his sister, Paulette McNamee Patterson of Largo, FL and two sisters-in-law, Martha Yeagher Deegan and Diana W. Yeagher as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Ron was predeceased by three brothers-in-law: T. Steven Yeagher, William A. Yeagher and James Patterson.
His laugh, personality, and memory will be cherished in the hearts of his family and friends for years to come. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on July 13, 2023, at St. Martin Of Tours Immaculate Conception Church, 4 North Street, Norfolk, CT at 10 A.M. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Norfolk Volunteer Ambulance, Norfolk, CT 06058.
Shirley Decker
SALISBURY- Shirley R. (Marks) Decker, age 87, of Salisbury, CT, passed away on July 1, 2023, at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital. She was the wife of the late Frank W. Decker, Jr.
Shirley was born May 9, 1936 in Salisbury, CT, the daughter of the late Howard and Elsie (Ball) Marks. She attended Housatonic Valley Regional High School. Shirley married Frank on May 28, 1955 and made their home in Wassaic, NY. She was a housekeeper at the Wassaic Developmental Center for many years until retiring in 1995. She enjoyed dancing, participating in local bowling leagues and serving as a member of the Wassaic Ladies Auxiliary.
She is survived by her sister, Mildred Ongley of Salisbury, CT; seven nieces: Debra Lavalette, Joann Garfield, JoAnn Hess, Barbara McGhee, Mary Bastian, Michele Hanlon and Pamela Carlson; one nephew, Ted McGhee; and several great-nieces and great-nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her sister, Polly Cimorelli of Poughkeepsie, NY and her brother, Tilden McGhee of Salisbury, CT. She was also predeceased by her companion, Silas Lovett of Norfolk, CT.
The burial will be held at Valley-View Cemetery in Dover, NY on Friday, July 7, at 1:00 p.m. followed by a memorial service at the Congregational Church of Salisbury at 2:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to The Little Guild animal shelter at 285 Sharon Goshen Turnpike, West Cornwall, CT, 06796.
Marshall Miles
SALISBURY- Marshall Miles of Factory Street, passed away at Hartford Hospital Saturday evening June 24.
Marshall was born on October 23, 1952 the son of the late Jackie and Lorraine Miles. He resided in Sharon for most of his life and was a graduate of Housatonic Valley Regional High School in 1971. Marshall went to broadcasting school after graduation. He then was on air at the High School radio station, broadcasting football games. He started his radio career at WKNY Kingston as their first Spy in the Sky traffic reporter and on air announcer. He moved back to Sharon in 1993 as Operations Manager at WQQQ / Q103.
In 1997 Marshall became the Operations Manager at WKZE and continued in that role until 2002. He then started the Country’s smallest NPR station at Robinhood Radio where he was President of Tri-State Communications/Robinhood Radio from 2002 until his passing. He was an integral part of the NWCT updating listeners on local news, key events, and critical weather updates. He also was a key part of charities in the area raising money for many causes.
Marshall is survived by his son Marc Miles and three grandchildren, Mia, Austin and Jackson Miles. Stepchildren, Robin Polacco, Karen Hutchings Martin, Jake and Sam Hutchings. Step grandchildren, Jordan and Chad Polacco, Mack, Molly, Will and Nate Hutchings and Miles Martin. Marshall is also survived by two brothers Mark Miles and Mitchell Miles. He was pre-deceased by a sister Milanne Miles.
Calling hours will be held on Friday July 7 from 4-7PM at the Kenny Funeral Home, 41 Main Street in Sharon. Burial is private. A celebration of Marshall's life will be held at a later date to be announced.
Memorial contributions may be made to Tri/State Publications Communications Inc., 67 Main Street, Sharon, CT 06069
Patricia Boyle
SALISBURY - Patricia A. Boyle, 92, of Salisbury, CT, died June 15, 2023. For 52 years “Patti" was the loving wife of Dick Boyle.
Patricia was born March 17, 1931 in Covington, KY the daughter of Roderick Murray and Catherine Gilday. After attending local Roman Catholic schools, she moved to Cincinnati where she married her first husband the late Patrick McHugh. While taking night classes at the University of Cincinnati, she worked as a secretary to the dean of the Art Academy of Cincinnati part of the Cincinnati Art Museum where Dick was curator. They met, fell in love and were married on June 19, 1971. They moved to Philadelphia where she founded and ran The Friends of the Free Library of Philadelphia. In 1994 the couple settled in Salisbury, CT, where Patti opened The Earl Grey Bed and Breakfast and where they soon became very much a part of the community. She loved playing bridge, gardening and she particularly loved to travel, especially to France and the countryside in the U.K.
She is survived by two sons, Rick and Eric (Mary), daughters Barbara and Cherie; grandchildren Edward, Colleen, Katie, Maureen, Alexandra, James and Owen, and four great grandchildren.
Private services will be held.
In lieu of flowers contribution may be made to The Salisbury Volunteer Ambulance Squad and the Salisbury Visiting Nurses Association.
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John Meeker
SOUTHBURY - John Gordon Meeker, 94, passed peacefully on June 9 in Southbury, CT. He was loved by his family and lived a good, long life. He is survived by his wife, Jo-Anne Boyden and 8 children by his first marriage, 17 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.
John was born in Milburn, New Jersey to parents Anne Green and Albert Ross Meeker. He was a graduate of Milburn High School and completed a 5-year engineering and MBA degree at Amhurst and MIT. He worked initially for Motorola, during which time he met his first wife, Emily Jones. Together, during their 30 years of marriage in Scottsdale, Arizona; Short Hills, New Jersey; Mt. Kisco and Somers, New York; they raised six children (Emily O’Mahoney of Florida, Grace Mckeegan of California, Dori Wolfe of Texas, Mary Alber of Nevada, John Meeker Jr of New York, and Elizabeth Meeker of New York) and brought into the fold two more grown children upon the death of their parents (Susie Rosvally O’Mahoney of Louisiana and Harry Rosvally of Connecticut).
John worked as CFO for American Cystoscope Makers in Pelham, New York. Then after growing the family business, FireGlow Distributors in Jefferson Valley, New York, he left to pursue “the better mousetrap” (his beloved Woodkiln fireplace insert and woodstove) in Sinclairville, New York. When he retired, he met and married Jo-Anne Boyden of Kent, Connecticut in 2005 and found the contentment he had been seeking.
John loved playing bridge, singing in church or barbershop, and solving challenges. He needed a project or three to work on and he didn’t mind getting his hands dirty to create the solution. He loved the lake in northwest New Jersey, acquired by his father and others during the Depression. It was there where he learned to fish and sail. Over the years he enhanced the cabin, built bunk houses, and the amazing porch overlooking the lake. He could often be found searching for rocks needed for foundations and docks or repairing the drainage ditches and dirt roads leading to the cabin.
John was preceded in death by his brother Albert (Pete) Ross Meeker Jr.
The family will be holding a private celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, consider donating to a charity of your choosing or to the music-only radio station John enjoyed – WNMR Fine Arts Radio.
Peter Pouncey
CANAAN - On May 30, 2023, Peter Richard Pouncey passed away at the age of 85 after a life well lived at the nursing home at Geer Village in Canaan, Connecticut.
He was born to Cecil and Eugenie Marjorie Pouncey on October 1, 1937, in Tsingtao, China, where his father worked as the British commissioner of maritime customs. World War II separated the family, but after many months apart, the Pounceys reunited and returned to England. Peter finished his schooling there and went on to attend the University of Oxford, earning a BA in classics in 1964 and an MA in 1967 from Campion Hall. After leaving Oxford, Pouncey accepted a teaching position at Fordham University in New York. While there, he completed his PhD in Classics at Columbia University, eventually joining the department as an assistant professor. In 1980, he published his first book, The Necessities of War: A Study of Thucydides’ Pessimism. A true academic, also Peter served as the Dean of Columbia College from 1972 to 1976. In 1984, he left Columbia to become the President of Amherst College, where he served for 10 years. After his tenure there, Peter returned to teaching at both Amherst and Columbia.
In 2005, Pouncey published his first novel, Rules for Old Men Waiting, which went on to win the Harold D. Vursell Memorial Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters.
Peter is survived by his three children, Christian Pouncey, Maggie Pouncey, and Emily Liebert; their spouses, Victoria Pouncey, Matt Miller, and Vlad Kobzar; his grandchildren, Eliza Pouncey, Felix and Dominic Miller, and Henry and Louise Kobzar.
Raymond Fréchette
SHARON – Raymond G. Fréchette, passed away June 2, 2023, at Smilow Cancer Hospital at the age of 68.
Raymond was born in Tarrytown, NY, son of late Guy Fréchette and late Pierrette Joncas Fréchette.
Raymond worked at McCain printing supplies as Service Representative for many years before he became a businessman starting his own company under R.G.F. Bindery Service which he operated with success until his retirement at his dream house here in Sharon. Raymond loved his family and friends, nature, riding his Harley, playing his saxophone, and the Lord. He will be missed.
He was survived by his four children, Thomas, Jesse, Renée, Raymond Jr as well as Grandchildren Faith Lynn, Thomas Jr, Jacob, Jesse Jr, Joshua, Jodie, and Alexander. Predeceased by brother Pierre and survived by siblings Diane (Frank), Richard (Sheila), Deborah (Jean-Guy), Nancy (Daniel) and his nephews and nieces, Stéphanie, Michael, Marie-Pier, Nicolas, David, and Mathieu.
A memorial service will be held at the St. Bridget’s Church on Saturday June 24, 11am.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Bridget’s Church, 7 River Rd, Sharon, CT 06069.
Walter Hall
KENT - Walter C. Hall, 86, of Kent, CT, passed away May 13, 2023, at Geer Village in Canaan, CT. He was the loving husband of the late Carol O’Brien Hall.
Walter was born October 13, 1936 in Torrington, CT the son of the late Donald and Mildred (Edwards) Hall. Walter graduated from Housatonic Valley Regional High School with the class of 1954. After graduation he attended Henry Abott Technical School in Danbury, CT. Upon completing technical school Walter married Carol on May 19th, 1956. He was a carpenter, who early in his career worked with Joe Gawel construction in Kent; then partnered with John Grusauski; and eventually became an independent and self-employed carpenter.
He is survived by a sons, Donald Hall and Sue Sherman of Torrington, CT; Richard & Nicolette Hall of Enfield, CT; Stephen & Cheryl Hall of Tennessee, Katherine (Hall) & Nathan Totten of Kent, CT; 12 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren. Walter is preceded in death by his daughter Elizabeth Ann Hall, sisters Elenor and Donna, daughters-in-law Diane Hall and Linda Hall and his grandson Sylvan R. Hall.
A private grave site service will be held at Good Hill cemetery in Kent, CT. Memorial contributions may be made to the Kent Volunteer Fire Dept.
James Curtiss
NORFOLK - James Curtiss, 65, of Norfolk, passed away May 7th, 2023.
Born on December 13, 1957 in Sharon, CT, Jim was the son of the late James and Theresa Nielsen Curtiss. He graduated from Northwestern Regional #7 and began his career in construction, learning his trade from both his father and his late uncle, Francis Curtiss, who he fondly thought of as a second father.
In addition to being a talented woodworker, Jim also enjoyed logging on his property, gardening, and taking care of several dogs over the years. Throughout his life, he always did his best to help anyone in need.
He is survived by his two sisters, Catherine Dauphinais of Norfolk, CT and Theresa Harrington (David) of The Woodlands, TX. He is also survived by six nieces and nephews, Brian, Meghan, Kathryn, Andrew, Parker, and Lauren and by three great nieces.
There will be a graveside service at St. Mary’s Cemetery on May 20, 2023 at 11:00 am. Kenny Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made online to A Good Dog Rescue at www.agooddogrescue.org.
Evelyn Williams
CANAAN- Evelyn Williams, 93, formerly of Roxbury, CT, died in her sleep early Sunday, May 7, 2023, at
Geer Lodge. Evelyn was born Evelyn Virginia Atkinson on September 13, 1929, in Haledon, NJ, the first
child of Edward and Evelyn Atkinson. She grew up in Hawthorne, NJ, where she often roller-skated to
the deli for a dill pickle (5 cents) and, in high school, spent lunch times dancing non-stop to the music
coming out of the juke box at the drug store soda fountain.
Evelyn graduated from New Jersey College for Women in New Brunswick, NJ, and married Frederick
Picton, who graduated from Rutgers and went to work on Wall St. They settled in Watchung, NJ and had
four children: James, Mark, David, and Glynis. The local minister said to the family later that when he
visited Fred in the waiting room at the hospital while Evelyn was giving birth to their fourth child, Glynis,
Fred said “Jesus, Reverend, I hope this one is a girl, because my wife doesn’t give up easily!” But Fred
died young, at 43, leaving a 40-year-old widow with four children to raise. In 1972, Evelyn married Robert Williams, a manager at Bell Labs in Holmdel, NJ., bringing three more children to the family. The youngest, Andy, predeceased Bob. Lori lives in Phoenix, AZ, and Scott, the oldest, lives in Sheridan, WY.
When Bob retired, He and Evelyn built a home in Roxbury, CT and started the Christmas tree farm they called Clover Knoll. The cut-your-own farm was open to the public, and everybody in the extended family was employed there each year from Thanksgiving to Christmas, from the youngest to the oldest, which was Evelyn and Bob’s real reason for operating the business. Evelyn also pursued her many other interests, among them making and wearing remarkable clothes, knitting whole couches as well as fine sweaters, acting in the local theater company, square and swing dancing with Bob, cooking, and drumming. After Bob died in 2002, Evelyn scaled back and concentrated on loving and caring for her growing family which, at the time of her death, included her four grown children, seven grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren, spread from Maine to Virginia and west to Alaska, as well as Bob’s two grown children, one grandchild, and one great-grandchild. Evelyn is also survived by her sister, Susan Clark and predeceased by her brother, Edward Atkinson.
A memorial celebration will be held Saturday June 10 at 11:00, at the First Congregational Church of Washington, CT, located on the green. Memorial contributions may be made to the Housatonic Valley Association, PO Box 28, Cornwall Bridge, CT 06754 or online at hvatoday.org .
Frederick Cadman
LAKEVILLE - Frederick L. Cadman II passed away on May 5, 2023 at Hartford Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born May 30, 1959, in New Rochelle, NY he was the son of the late Carolyn Scoville (Fisher) Cadman and Samuel Parkes Cadman II. Fred grew up in Pelham, NY. He is predeceased by his parents and his beloved sister, Cheryl Cadman Evans.
He earned his A.B. in History from the University of Connecticut in 1981, his J.D. from Suffolk Law in 1984, and his M.L.T. from Georgetown Law in 1985. After working briefly for a taxation and accounting firm in Boston, Fred returned to Connecticut in November 1989 and started his own law practice on Russ Street in Hartford. Later he moved his office to Farmington Avenue in West Hartford. He ran a general law practice for thirty-three years, specializing in taxation, workers’ compensation and personal injury, estate planning and administration, real estate, and business formation. Fred believed in the importance of making legal services accessible and being kind to others. This was reflected in his advocacy on behalf of a wide range of clients throughout the greater Hartford area and in the Northwest Corner.
Fred took great pride in his family. He and his wife, Mary, met at UConn and had triplets, Sam, Emily, and Frank, whom they raised in Lakeville, CT. They share many fond memories, including time spent swimming at the Grove in Lakeville, fishing, playing basketball and baseball, and watching the NY Mets. He was an avid reader, plant enthusiast, and dog lover. His constant love, support, and sense of humor will be sorely missed by his family and friends.
Fred is survived by his wife, Mary H. Cadman; his children, Samuel P. Cadman III, Emily E. Cadman and Francis H. Cadman; his son-in-law Evan W. Dorney and daughter-in-law Trang Nguyen; his brother Anthony B. Cadman and Kathryn P. Cadman; his brother-in-law B. Daniel Evans; his nephew William F. Evans, Caitlin B. Evans, and their son Jack F. Evans; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Elizabeth and John Smith, Susan and Mark Carrier, Anne Healey, Joan Healey, Frank T. Healey III and Beth B. Healey, Martha and Charles Holden, Barbara and Michael Plummer, and Kathryn Healey; his dog Duke; and many more nieces, nephews, and friends, in whose lives he enjoyed sharing.
A gathering in celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, June 11th from 3:00-6:00 pm at the Lakeville Town Grove. His burial will be private, at his request.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Fred’s name to a food pantry or animal shelter of the donor’s choosing or to the Little Guild in West Cornwall, CT.
Ruth Wheeler
WASSAIC, NY - Ruth Wheeler, 70, passed away January 13, 2023, in the care of her family.
Ruth was born December 2, 1953, in Sharon, CT, the daughter of the late Marjorie and Edward Ammerman. Ruth graduated from HVRHS, worked at Taconic DDSO for over 35 years, and was also a proud member of the Wassaic Fire Company for 15 years, and loved making the road trip to Florida to visit two out of her three sons, and her grandchildren. You could find her outside with a book in hand enjoying the Florida weather.
She is survived by her three sons, Raymond Wheeler Ammerman, Michael Wheeler, his wife Justine Wheeler, Thomas Wheeler and his wife Alicia Wheeler, and her 7 grandchildren: Alyssa Wheeler, Kaylee Wheeler, Branden Wheeler, Zachary Wheeler, Michael Wheeler Jr, Thomas Wheeler Jr, and Kaden Ammerman, and her two great-grandchildren, Michael Wheeler III, and Cole Wheeler, a sister, Mary Ammerman, brothers Thomas, Donald, Herman (David) Ammerman, and the late Eddie and Billy Ammerman.
A memorial service will be held at the Ellsworth Cemetery, in Sharon, CT on Saturday the 6th of May at 1 pm. Followed by a reception to be held at the Wassaic Fire House.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Wassaic Fire Department.
Scott Krizman
SALISBURY- Scott Krizman of Fowler Street passed away on April 4th at Sharon Hospital. He was the loving husband of Sandra Krizman and father of Karen Krizman Saver of Spain.
Scott was born February 22,1931 in Glasgow, Scotland the son of the late Morris Krizman and Rachel Miller Krizman.
A memorial service will be celebrated on Monday May, 8th at Noon at the Kenny Funeral Home, 41 Main Street , Sharon. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sharon Ambulance, P.O.Box 357, Sharon, Ct. 06069.
Richard Christiansen Jr.
AMENIA, NY - Richard M. Christiansen Jr., 87, (affectionally known as Dick) a resident of Amenia passed away peacefully at home on April 11, 2023.
Born March 22, 1936, in Shawangunk, NY, he was the son to the late Richard Sr. and Margaret (Romer) Christiansen. On December 31, 1957, in Pawling NY, he married Patricia (Carol) Christiansen who survives at home.
Dick served in the United States Navy and was honorably discharged on November 27, 1953.
Mr. Christiansen worked at various locations throughout his lifetime, finally retiring in 1998 from the Wassaic Developmental Center where he was a Therapy Aide.
Mr. Christiansen was a 64-year lifetime member and Past Fire Chief of the Wassaic Fire Company where he could still be found at the firehouse daily.
Dick was a HUGE NY Mets fan and a one-time season ticket holder #LFGM. He additionally enjoyed NASCAR and watching his favorite driver, Jeff Gordon. Richard enjoyed trips to the area casinos and was an avid Joker Poker player for many years.
In addition to his loving wife Patricia, Mr. Christiansen is survived by son Richard M. Christiansen III (wife Tina) of Syracuse NY, daughter Carol Robert (husband Tony) of Amenia NY, son Mark Christiansen (wife Donna) of Dover Plains NY. He is also survived by sisters Patty Austin, Alice Kreiling, Irene Christiansen and Peggy Mercado; grandchildren Matthew Christiansen, Andrew Christiansen, Jeremy Robert, Shayne Robert, Tyler Christiansen, Austin Christiansen, Jeremy Christiansen, Brandi Doyle and Ricky Christiansen; great grandchildren Joey, Logan, Alana, Annabelle and Leon.
He was predeceased by brothers Roy Christiansen, Robert Christiansen, Raymond Christiansen and a sister Joan Rockwood.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday April 22, 2023, at the Irondale Cemetery in Millerton NY at 11am.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dutchess County SPCA located at 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park NY 12538
Gabriel Zatlin
KENT - Gabriel Zatlin, a longtime member of the Kent community, passed away suddenly on Tuesday.
He was a big reader, an avid gardener, and loved sitting on the porch with his wife, Jane.
He was born in New York City, but grew up in Miami, attended Washington University Medical School and trained in pediatrics. He worked at the CDC in epidemiology. He served in the Epidemic Intelligence Service of the Communicable Disease Center of the Public Health Service, which took him on a secret mission to Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Alaska, an Indian reservation, and Brazil. He was part of a pediatric practice in Atlanta, where his sons Jonathan and Andrew were raised.
Upon the dissolution of his first marriage he embarked on an international career, working in Indonesia and Africa for several years. Upon his return to the US, he became the Health Services doctor at Brown University, where he met his future wife Lorna. Their daughter is Belle, a social worker in New York City. Following Lorna to New York, he retrained in family medicine, and practiced family medicine in New York until his retirement ten years ago.
Nineteen years ago, he and his current wife Jane got together. They divided their time between Kent and Brooklyn for many years, but have spent time since the Pandemic lockdown, exclusively in Kent.
Jane was looking forward to porch time with Gabriel this spring; their time together was her great joy.
Gabriel will be buried in Kent. A memorial will be held at a later date.
Remembrance and donations should be directed to the Kent Memorial Library, Kent, Connecticut, in his honor. He was a supporter of the library, and a book sale volunteer, too. He could be seen every weekend perusing the offerings at the annual book sale.
Lewis Norton
KENT - Lewis R Norton, of Kent CT passed away March 21, 2023 at Candlewood Valley Health. He was 81.
Lewis was born in Nashville, Tennessee and spent his childhood in Plymouth, CT before moving to Meriden where he spent most of his adult life before retiring to Kent, CT.
Lewis was a lifelong member of the Congregational Church and avid choir member.
He is predeceased by a son Matthew and parents Elizabeth and Charles Norton of Plymouth, CT.
Lewis is survived by a brother and sister inlaw James and Margaret Norton, 3 nieces, 5 grand nieces and nephews and 2 great grand nephews.
A memorial service will be held at the Kent Congregational Church on Saturday, April 1st at 11:00am. All other services will be private.
Patricia Habacker
SALISBURY - Patricia “Patti” Marie Habacker, 58, of 4 Hemlock Lane, Salisbury, CT passed away peacefully March 17, 2023 at Yale New Haven Hospital with her soulmate James Habacker by her side. Patti and Jim have been together since February 14, 1981 and married on June 6, 1987 at their family estate in Salisbury, CT. Patti and her bridal party arrived on a horse drawn carriage.
Patti was born in Bronx, N.Y. on March 15, 1965. She was the daughter of Michael and Sadie (Harden) Kelliher. Patti graduated from Baldwin Senior High School in 1983.
Patti moved to Salisbury in 1993 where she enjoyed a wonderful fulfilled life near a beautiful lake where she and Jim raised 3 sons; Jimmy, Jonny and Joey. All three went on to attend Housatonic Valley Regional High School and were the captains of multiple sports teams.
For many years she assisted with the day to day operations of the Habacker family business. Her positive demeanor coupled with her work ethic was the perfect combination for a prosperous work environment.
Patti was a dedicated mother first and foremost, devoted wife, lover of animals especially her three fur babies Snoopy, Dudley and Jamie. She especially loved her role as grandmother and god mother to her very first grandbaby Rose “Rosie.” Her vivacious smile would light up any room and will forever be missed.
Patricia Marie’s natural beauty was only surpassed by her kind heart and spirit. Her love for her family and friends will be forever remembered.
Patti is survived by her loving husband James and their two loving sons Jonathan and Joseph Habacker, their spouses Nicole Lord and Katelyn Habacker and one granddaughter Rose Elizabeth Habacker. Patti is also survived by her mother Sadie Kelliher, sister Karen Kelliher, brother Michael Kelliher, nieces and nephews. All of these she loved and touched deeply. She is predeceased by her son James Habacker and father Michael Kelliher.
Calling hours will be held Friday March 24th from 4pm-6pm at Kenny Funeral Home, 41 Main Street, Sharon CT. A funeral service will be celebrated Saturday, March 25th at 10am at the Salisbury Congregational Church with a burial to follow at Salisbury Cemetery.
In Lieu of donations a GoFundMe https://gofund.me/c0e52674 has been set up in memory of Patti Habacker.
Stephany Haines
SALISBURY - Stephany Warick Haines, age 83, passed away on March 4, 2023, at her home in Salisbury, CT after a long illness. She was the loving wife of the late Thomas D. Haines (known to many as Tom). In her final days, she was surrounded by her sons and others who cared deeply for her.
Stephany was born in Jersey City, NJ in 1940, the only child of the late Stephan S. Warick and Jadwiga A. Sieradzki. She grew up in Lyndhurst, NJ, and attended Vassar College where she majored in English. She and Tom married in 1963 and moved to New York City. Stephany pursued her passion for art and worked at the Institute of Fine Arts for nearly a decade. She and Tom raised their two sons in Brooklyn Heights and lived there for almost four decades. For many years, she and her family spent much of their summers in Norfolk, CT, where Stephany honed her watercolor skills and presented several exhibits of her paintings at the Norfolk Library.
In the early 2000s, she and Tom moved to Salisbury where they enjoyed the more relaxed rhythms of country life and the views from their house on Bunker Hill Road. Throughout their years together, they found great joy in hosting or joining dinner parties that lasted later into the night with groups of close friends.
Stephany’s other great loves, aside from her husband and children, were her Jack Russell Terriers. She had four of the energetic canines over the years and endowed them all with somewhat unconventional names to match their feisty personalities. Although few dared to call her on it, Stephany was a bit of an Anglophile. She believed tea was the only morning beverage fit for human consumption, was a regular reader of Country Life magazine, and cherished the annual trips that she and Tom took to London for many years after he retired. Stephany was known for her dry wit, which remained with her until her final days, as well as her lifelong love of animals, especially dogs, horses and birds. Her intuitive eye for spotting antiques of value remains a source of family lore.
She is survived by her two sons, Samuel and Thomas Jr., their wives (Monamie and Caroline) and her four grandchildren (Sophie, Eliza, Kailash and Urmila). A memorial service will be planned for later this year. Memorial contributions may be made to Russell Rescue Inc. (www.russellrescue.com).
Donald Simmons III
SHARON - Donald Simmons III died in New Heaven, CT. He was the loving father to his daughter.
Donald was born on April 24, 1988 in Sharon, CT to Donald Simmons Jr. and Mary (Johnson) Smotherman. He attended Housatonic Valley Regional Highschool.
He is survived by both parents Donald Simmons Jr of Torrington, CT, Mary (Vic) Smotherman of Malinta, OH. Siblings Mary Chausse and Lynn Quigley of Napoleon, OH, Katie Brazee of FL, and Mark Brazee Jr. of Malinta, OH. There are more loved ones.
He is predeceased in death by both paternal grandparents and maternal grandmother and many other loved ones.
A private graveside service will be held at a later date with family.
Sally Swanson
SALISBURY - It is with great sadness that we have to inform you, our little Mom, Sally Swanson, passed away on February 14, 2023. She was 85yrs old (nearly 86 (May 19th)).
Mom was the most giving, loving and toughest lady who, with her strong relationship with God, always conquered the significant medical challenges that she endured for many, many years.
Mom welcomed everyone into her beautiful home. The home that she and Dad worked tirelessly to make it what it is today. The home so many of our childhood friends love coming back to, cherishing fond memories.
Mom was so positive, happy and was always smiling. Most of all, Mom loved her family, her home and appreciated the many friendships she developed through her years.
Mom is survived by her children: Ram, Kim, Patricia and John, as well as her Granddaughter, Madisyn for whom she was so very proud of. Mom is survived by two siblings: Judy Loucks and
Leah Procopio.
Mom was predeceased by her loving husband, Charlie Swanson, as well as three siblings: Gene Stahovec, Faye Blakey and Carl Stahovec.
We will be having a private burial and a gathering at some point so that we can all celebrate Mom.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Salisbury Volunteer Ambulance or Sharon Methodist Church.
Please take a moment to remember Mom as you knew her.
Eva Aitcheson
DOVER, NY - Eva (Cruz) Aitcheson passed away surrounded by her four children on February 14, 2023 at the age of 49.
She was born in New York City on January 19, 1974.
She was a fun, loving, and proud mother and grandmother, who loved nothing more than spending time with those closest to her. Eva also enjoyed cooking for her family, watching movies, and just hanging out. She had a loud, easy to love laugh that made you smile. She helped and supported others in a way that was non-judgmental and clearly came from a heart of love. Her children, siblings, mother, and other loved ones will always hold Eva in their hearts.
The family also wants to thank the fantastic medical team in the ICU at Vassar Brothers Medical Center for making this journey less difficult and making Eva’s final few days comfortable and as peaceful as possible.
She is survived by her children Justin (Rose) Prause, Jason Prause, Joshua Prause, and Ashley (Jeremy) Prause; three grandchildren; mother Judy Lamay; brothers Richie Cruz and Alex Cruz; sister Nyasia Nesmith; and nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Charlie.
Kenny funeral home in Sharon, CT is handling arrangements for calling hours on Friday February 24, 2023, 4:00pm-6:00pm.
Peter Douglas
LAKEVILLE - Peter R. Douglas, 72, a retired attorney who practiced corporate law in New York City, died unexpectedly of an apparent heart attack at his home in Lakeville, CT, on Feb. 9, 2023.
A graduate of Deerfield Academy, Harvard College and Harvard Law School, Peter became one of the youngest partners at Davis Polk & Wardwell, a Wall Street law firm. He was widely admired for his intellect, humor and charm. His law practice focused mainly on mergers and acquisitions for both domestic and international clients, and among many other accomplishments he was the inventor of the “Pac-Man” defense against hostile corporate takeovers and numerous novel transaction structures and held a patent for a pricing formula in exchange offers. He retired from the law firm in 2012.
Peter was born on June 3, 1950, in Northampton, MA and grew up in Chevy Chase, MD. He was the son of John W. Douglas, who headed the U.S. Justice Department’s Civil Division under Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, and Mary St. John Douglas, a medical researcher and first woman trustee of Princeton University. His grandfather, Paul H. Douglas, served as three term U.S. senator from Illinois from 1949 to 1967.
Peter had a special fondness for fast cars and for a brief time held a track record at the now defunct Bridgehampton race course. During his retirement, he focused his energies on woodworking, nature photography and automobiles.
Peter and his wife established a part time home in Lakeville, CT in 2004 and relocated to Lakeville full time in 2012 following Peter’s retirement.
Peter is survived by his wife, Ulrika Ekman, and his three children, Matthew of Miami Beach, FL, Alexander of San Francisco, CA and Anna, a junior at Georgetown University, by his sister, Kate Douglas Torrey of Chapel Hill, NC, and by many Douglas and St. John cousins.
A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.
Anna Curtis
AMENIA, NY - Anna Moore Gilfillan Curtis, 87, passed away Saturday, February 4, 2023, at Sharon Hospital, surrounded by her family at her side. She was the loving wife of Arnold Curtis.
Anna was born January 5, 1936, in Brownington, Vermont, to parents Nye and Marion (Moore) Gillfillan, who preceded her in death. Anna graduated from Orleans High School, married, and moved to New York in 1958. She was a den mother for the cub scouts and a homemaker for many years before attending Dutchess Community College and acquiring her Registered Nursing License in 1977.
Anna was employed as an RN at Wassaic Developmental Center in Wassaic, NY, for many years before retiring in 1991. Anna loved to travel and spent many summers in their Vermont camp on Brown’s pond in Westmore, VT, these past 30 years. She was an avid card player and stamp collector and loved gardening in her younger years.
Anna is survived by her husband of 64 years, Arnold Curtis, Amenia, NY; her son Whaden Curtis and wife, Barbara, of Brookfield, CT; her daughter Laurie Wilcox and husband, Brian, of Sharon, CT; her granddaughter Morgan Underwood and her husband, Kerry, of Valley Falls, NY; and grandson Alex Curtis of Grand Rapids, MI; brothers, Eric Gilfillan of Derby, VT, and Willis and wife Betty Gilfillan of Island Pond, VT; sister-in-law Marlene Gilfillan of Holland, VT; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.
Anna was preceded in death by her brothers Gilbert Gilfillan, Raymond Gilfillan, and nephew John Gilfillan.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023, or online at https://diabetes.org
Services will be at a later date at the convenience of the family at Lakeview Cemetery, Westmore, VT.
Online condolences can be made at Legacy.com by searching Anna’s name and scrolling past this obituary.
Stephen Gradowski
SHARON - Stephen John Gradowski, age 78, of Cornwall Bridge Road, passed away February 3, 2023 at home. He was the loving partner of Eileen Tedesco.
Stephen was born on December 25, 1944 in Torrington, the son of the late Joseph and Catherine Gradowski. Stephen graduated from Torrington High School and the University of Connecticut with a degree in geography.
He retired as Vice President of WHYCHO Chromium, Thomaston, CT.
He led an impressive life which included a love of dogs, especially his Border Terriers, and UCONN basketball, and was author of several patents.
In addition to his partner, he leaves brothers Joseph, Ed and wife Carol, nephew Michael Gradowski, nieces Katie Jankowski, JoEllen Sessa, Karen Lewis, and Karla Todd. He was predeceased by his brother Alex and sister Barbara Jankowski .
A grave-side service will be held at the new Saint Francis Cemetery in Torrington, February 10 at 11:00am.
Memorial contributions may be made to the The Sharon Fire Department Ambulance Squad, P.O. Box 357, Sharon, CT. 06069.
Edward O'Dell Jr
SHARON - Edward William O'Dell Jr., 58, a lifelong resident of Sharon, CT passed away on January 29, 2023, at Geer Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in North Canaan, CT, with his wife Cindy and daughter Ariel by his side. He had been battling an illness for the last six years and his body could no longer fight. The last few months had been a struggle.
Ed was born at Sharon Hospital in Sharon, CT, to Edward and Donna O'Dell on August 1, 1964. He was one of five children. On November 20, 1993 he married the love of his life Cindy (Propiescus) O’Dell. They have been together 35 years and married 29.
He is predeceased by a brother Michael O’Dell.
Ed is survived by his parents Ed and Donna, wife Cindy, daughter Ariel O’Dell (Kyle), and grandson Bearrett. He is also survived by his siblings Donna Peterson (Pete), Eric O’Dell (Tammy) and Rebecca Osuch, as well as his nieces, nephews and many close friends.
Ed had the biggest heart and found joy in helping friends and loved ones. An adoring husband, he treated his wife like a newlywed every day and loved her with his whole heart. Ed also loved the outdoors. He was happy hunting, fishing and camping, but his greatest joy was spending time with his wife, daughter and grandson. Ed is greatly missed but not forgotten.
The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the staff at Geer Nursing and Rehab for their care and kindness during this difficult time.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.
Calling hours will be held at Kenny Funeral Home, 41 Main Street, Sharon, CT on Saturday, February 4 from 12:00 – 2:00 pm.
Jessica Snyder
PHILMONT, NY – Jessica Lee Snyder, 42, of Philmont, NY formerly of Sharon, CT, passed away at Albany Medical Center on January 23, 2023.
Jessica was born on December 12, 1980 in Sharon, the daughter of Shirley and George Martin and Kim Snyder.
She was a graduate of Housatonic Valley Regional High School. She worked as a waitress for the White Heart Inn in Salisbury and later worked for Four Brothers in Hillsdale, NY.
She is survived by her parents and her children Mark Spucches Jr., Brynn Spucches and Max Spucches. She is also survived by a brother Jason Snyder and sisters Jennifer Snyder and Carisa Gaetano. As well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, February 10 from 4pm to 6pm at the Kenny Funeral Home, 41 Main Street, Sharon, CT. All other services are private.
Doris Martin
GLASTONBURY - Doris (Grey) Martin, 76, formerly of Norfolk passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 22, 2023, in Farmington, CT following a long illness.
She was born in Great Barrington, MA, and raised in New York and Massachusetts, near the northwest corner of Connecticut.
In 1964, she married her best friend and the love of her life, Jimmy Martin. Together Doris and Jimmy worked hard, raised a devoted family, made a loving home for many dogs and some cats, and tended to their abundant and immaculate gardens in Winsted, CT, Norfolk, CT and Valdosta, GA.
Doris was the proprietor of her own business, Reflections Hair Salon, for several years, and was a volunteer attendant for Winsted Ambulance.
She enjoyed working in her garden, and spending time at the beach. She will be remembered by her family and friends for her beautiful smile, contagious laugh, and love of all animals.
Doris is survived by her husband, James, son Jason and his wife Jacqui, as well as her brother Art and his wife Irene, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved son, Scott.
The family would like to thank the staff of the memory care units of Addison Place in Glastonbury and Arden Courts in Farmington, for their kindness and care during Doris’s last years.
Calling hours will be held Saturday, January 28, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., at Battell Chapel in Norfolk, CT, with burial to follow in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Winsted Area Ambulance Association, 655 Main St, Winsted, CT 06098.
Edward Tyburski
SALISBURY - Edward Tyburski passed away peacefully at his home in Salisbury, CT on January 21st at the age of 89 surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on November 7, 1933 in Derby, CT. He was the only child of Mary and Cyrus Tyburski who had emigrated from Poland.
Ed attended St. Joseph’s Elementary School and Ansonia High School. He graduated from New Haven State Teachers School with a B.S. degree in Elementary Education and Physical Education. He earned his Master’s degree at the University of Maryland where he was a Graduate Teaching Assistant in the Physical Education Department.
Ed’s parents could not understand Ed’s intense love of sports, especially football where he would often come home aching or in bandages. At Ansonia High School as a defensive end and tight end, he learned how the game was played as a member of the famed Chargers football team. He played football all through college and afterwards with the Connecticut Giants which was a farm team and practice squad for the New York Giants.
Ed also lettered in basketball in high school and college. After college he also enjoyed playing in the highly competitive Connecticut industrial basketball league and played with the likes of future NBA Hall of Famers Connie Hawkins and Wilt Chamberlain in exhibition games.
Ed first met his future wife, Elizabeth Sopneski, when he was 11 and she was 7. They met again as young adults and immediately felt a strong mutual attraction and married in 1957. Ed was 23 years old and she was 20. The marriage was a happy one that lasted 65 years. In 1961, they brought their family from Ansonia to the beautiful small town of Falls Village, CT where Ed began his coaching and athletic director career at Housatonic Valley Regional High School (HVRHS). The small town atmosphere of the northwestern corner of CT and the strong sense of community was a perfect match.
At HVRHS, his passion for sports flourished. Over his 37 year career he coached football, boys basketball, golf, gymnastics and girls softball and became the schools longtime athletic director. He was the only Housatonic coach to be head coach of five sports.
Ed worked tirelessly to expand physical education and athletic programs to enable a wider range of sports to be more accessible to students, and to increase overall participation. This included his active support of Title IX in 1972, a law passed prohibiting discrimination of offering educational and athletics opportunities based on sex. He was an early leader for women’s participation in sports, and his efforts resulted in HVRHS receiving substantial federal financial assistance which allowed a rapid expansion of women’s sports at HVRHS. Under his leadership, the athletic program increased from six sports and 11 teams to 21 sports and 34 teams and the creation of intramural sports programs. To ensure this expansion was successful for the students, he worked continuously to expand and improve facilities, created innovative and inspirational coaching handbooks, and published a beginner coaching fundamentals manual.
In the culmination of his tireless efforts as athletic director, HVRHS was named first place in the state of Connecticut in 1989 for excellence in high school athletic programs, receiving the prestigious Michaels Cup. Through his foundational work, HVRHS won the Michaels cup for an unprecedented second time in 1991 under the leadership of David Bayersdorfer, who succeeded Ed as the HVRHS Athletic Director.
Ed was also active in the promotion and evolution of high school athletics at the State level. He was one of the founding members and President (1986-1987) of the Connecticut Association of Athletic Directors (CAAD). The primary goal of CAAD is to support, assist, innovate, and inspire excellence in athletic program development for high schools in Connecticut. In 2017, he was formally inducted into the CAAD Hall of Fame in recognition of his years of leadership in promoting athletics across the State of Connecticut.
Most importantly, Ed was a tireless and very dedicated servant to his students, coaches and the HVRHS community. He went out of his way to make sure students and coaches had support and resources to be successful in sports and most importantly, in life. He was known for his focused yet fair and patient approach, and his memorable sense of timely humor. For the annual HVRHS athletic banquet, he made sure every athlete in the school was captured and recognized in his multimedia presentation of photos and music. He also managed to recruit many prominent former pro athletes and coaches to speak at the annual banquet, including a particularly inspiring speech from Lou Carnesecca, legendary head basketball coach for St. John’s University. His passion for sports at HVRHS lives on through the Tyburski Award that is presented annually to a freshman athlete in each sport who best exemplifies skill, sportsmanship, leadership, and teamwork. The combined support and leadership of the coaches, faculty, staff and community were integral to the overall success of the HVRHS athletic programs. True teamwork in action.
Ed was also active as a leader in his community. He served on the Falls Village Board of Selectman from 1971 to 1977. Additionally, he served as the Scout Master for the local Cub Scout troop. He also participated in a number of other public and community volunteer organizations. Ed was devoted to the support of his community through all aspects of his life.
Ed also served in the United States Army Reserve 326th Intelligence Unit from 1954 to 1962 with an Honorable Discharge.
Most significantly, Ed was a devoted husband and father. He always included his sons in practices and games and everyday life at HVRHS, and taught them the importance of community service, dedication, and devotion through action. His wife Elizabeth was truly the wind beneath his wings, infusing untiring wisdom, energy and support while successfully raising 3 energetic kids. He always appreciated the fact that he could never have done it without her.
Ed is survived by his wife Elizabeth Tyburski, sons Edward (Lisa), Michael (Julie), Jeff (Rosalind), grandchildren, Stacey (Robert), Kelly (Otto), Michael (Ariel), Alex, Erin, Daniel, Max, Elise, Kyra, Andie and Zoe and great grandson Jackson. The Tyburski’s are very grateful for the outstanding support they have received from the HVRHS community and friends.
A service will be held at St. Joseph church, located at 4 Main Street, Canaan, CT, on February 18, 2023 at 11am immediately followed by a celebration of life and community ceremony with remarks and luncheon reception at the HVRHS cafeteria.
In lieu of flowers, the Tyburski’s would like to respectfully request donations to HVRHS to further promote, enhance and preserve athletic programs for students. Checks can be made payable to the Housatonic Athletics fund and mailed care of HVRHS, 246 Warren Turnpike Rd, Falls Village, CT 06031 or dropped off at the reception.
Stephen Lango
LAKEVILLE - Stephen Michael Lango, 65, of Lakeville Connecticut passed away January 17, 2023, at his home.
Stephen was born September 4, 1957, in Sharon, Connecticut to Joseph Jr and Mary (Carberry) Lango.
He attended Auburndale High School in Auburndale, Florida. He enjoyed woodworking and was an expert craftsman. He was a self employed contractor in the Sharon, Connecticut community making others dreams a reality in home construction and improvements.
Stephen enjoyed traveling, motorcycling, golfing, fishing, boating, kayaking and hiking. He loved cooking and getting together with friends and family, with his dog Pepper at his side.
Stephen is survived by his brother Paul and (Lynn) Lango of Easley, South Carolina, sister MaryJo and (Terry) Baker of Auburndale, Florida, sister Karen Lango of Winter Haven, Florida, brother Thomas and (Lou Ann) Lango of Walling, Tennessee and sister Patricia and (Mark) Hilborn of San Antonio, Tx. Stephen also is survived by four nieces, four nephews, three grand nieces and four grand nephews.
Stephen was predeceased by his father Joseph, mother Mary and older brother Joseph Lango III.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Babette Barrett
NORFOLK - Babette H. Barrett, 98, passed away January 8, 2023 in Salisbury, CT. She was the loving wife of her high school sweetheart, the late Robert E. Barrett.
Babs was born in 1925 in Winsted, CT, the daughter of Helen and Arthur Herman. She graduated from the Gilbert School, and with Bob raised a family of four boys.
For eleven years she worked as the Assistant Director of the Hitchcock Chair Museum, and was an active member of several organizations and clubs in Norfolk including the Isabella Eldridge Club and the Norfolk Library Associates.
Babs was an avid and highly regarded maker of hooked rugs, and enjoyed teaching the craft to others for many years. She was known for her impeccable taste and style, her fastidious housekeeping, and her excellent cooking and baking skills.
She is survived by her sister, Sandra Iacino, and three sons: Timothy, Thomas (Julie Bloch), and David (Gina Hyams). She was predeceased by her eldest son, Peter. She adored her three grandchildren, Spenser, Peter, and Annalena.
A memorial service will be held at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Norfolk, CT at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Norfolk Public Library, 9 Greenwoods Rd. E. Norfolk, CT 06058.
Dolores DuBois
Laurie (Dolores) Jean DuBois, 94, passed away Saturday, January 7, 2023 at Noble Horizons with her daughters by her side.
Laurie was born August 30,1928 to the late Ray LaVene and Leah Travaglio. She spent most of her childhood in the Los Angeles area, later attending John Marshall High School and UCLA where she received a BA in English. After graduation Laurie remained in Los Angeles working for The Haynes Foundation and later for the Boy Scouts of America where she met her husband, the late Frank DuBois.
Laurie and Frank moved east and settled in Millbrook, NY where they raised their four daughters: Susan Kozlowski of Falls Village CT, Sharie Schwaikert of Salisbury CT, Jessica Toscano of Drums PA, and the late Kate Barnes of Summerville SC.
Laurie was a homemaker for many years with a talent for sewing and knitting. Her mother would send beautiful fabrics from which she made dresses for her daughters, and dresses for their dolls too. She also took great pleasure in making sweaters and afghans for her daughters and later for her granddaughters. She volunteered at the Millbrook Library and was the assistant librarian at the former Bennett College.
Laurie and her husband shared a love of classical music, often attending operas in NYC. They also shared a love of Cape Cod where the family vacationed each summer. Laurie and Frank retired to Southern Pines, NC in 1989 where Laurie was an active member of her neighborhood serving as treasurer for the James Creek Association. She enjoyed gardening, crossword puzzles, and writing classes.
After her husband’s death in 2009, Laurie relocated to Noble Horizons in Salisbury CT to be near her daughters. She was a volunteer in The Country Store, a regular in the fitness center, a member of the Book Club, and was often found singing at socials in the Community Room. Laurie was known for her apple pies which she made not only for special occasions, but for those who were special to her. She was an avid reader and enjoyed playing Scrabble with her daughters up until her passing.
In addition to her daughters, she is survived by five grandchildren: Tasha Richardson, Joshua Smith, Leah Schwaikert, Hayley Kozlowski, and Lauren Toscano. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.
Memorial donation checks can be sent to The Noble Horizons Auxiliary Library Fund, 17 Cobble Road, Salisbury, CT 06068.
Terez Terdik
Millbrook- Terez “Pinczes” Terdik, 86, died peacefully at home on Jan. 7th 2023.
Born on Feb.26 1936 in Hungary, she was the daughter of Jozsef and Erszebet Pinczes.
She married her soul mate, Janos “John” Terdik on Dec. 20th 1954.
She worked as an attendant with patients at the Wassaic Development Center and retired in 1998.
She is survived by her daughter, Veronica Stark and her husband, Kevin of Millbrook; two grandsons, John Stark of Maybrook and Peter Stark of Saugerties; two great grandsons, Avery and Maverick Stark of Maybrook; a brother, Bela Pinczes and his wife, Rosie of Fishkill; a sister-in-law, Theresa Pinczes of Stanfordville; several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.
Predeased in addition to her parents and husband; a sister and brother-in-law, Elizabeth and Gabby Farkas; brothers, Thomas Pinczes, Joe Pinczes Matt Pinczes; and a nephew, Joe Pinczes Jr.
Calling hours are held at the Kenny Funeral Home in Sharon, CT. on Tue Jan. 10th from 5 to 7pm.
Church services are held at the Immaculate Conception Church in Amenia, on Wed. Jan. 11th at 10am.