Michael K. Dalton, 64, of Danbury, beloved husband of JoAnn (Quercia) Dalton died on Monday, July 21st at Danbury Hospital. He was born on May 22, 1950 in Manhattan, NY, son of the late Edward M. and Muriel J. (Posner) Dalton. He graduated from Fordham University and received an MBA from Pace University. He was a parishioner of St. Joseph Church Danbury and attended St. Edward the Confessor previously. Michael worked as an assistant Dean of the NYU Business School and later as Director of Career Development for Fairfield University. He enjoyed playing golf, reading, Yankees baseball, and vacationing in New Hampshire. Most importantly, he was a kind, compassionate man who devoted his life to his wife and son. Along with his cherished wife of 25 years, JoAnn, he will be sadly missed by his son Christopher Dalton of Danbury; his sister Christine J. McCann and her husband John A; his niece Pamela Pacitti; and his nephew Keith McCann. He is also survived by his mother-in-law Elfriede Quercia, and sister-in-law Christine Hetland and her husband, Rich; as well as his brother-in-law James Quercia, and his wife Dawn and several nieces and nephews.

View Full Notice → Michael K. Dalton – May 22, 1950 – July 21, 2014

William J. Elsenboss, 61, of Brookfield, died on July 27, 2014 in his home. He was born on March 8, 1953 in Danbury, son of the late William J. and Margaret (Creed) Elsenboss, Sr. He will be sadly missed by his beloved children Kristie Perry and her husband Andy of Brookfield, Jeremy Elsenboss and his wife Dawn of Brookfield, Aleise Elsenboss of Ruidoso, NM; his grandchildren Kelsie and Michael Perry, Ryan and Meghan Kendall and Lilly Elsenboss; his Aunt Betty Ann Elsenboss of Seattle, WA and several cousins. William worked for the Town of Brookfield for 38 years in the Building Maintenance/ Highway Dept. He was also a Constable, and past volunteer fireman for Brookfield Fire Department. William enjoyed riding motorcycles, fishing and gardening. He was always around to lend a helping hand and had a passion for animals. One of William’s proudest accomplishments was raising three successful and happy children.

View Full Notice → William Elsenboss Jr. – March 08, 1953 – July 27, 2014

John Julius Riska, 71, a long-time Danbury resident, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, July 29, 2014, surrounded by family and friends. He was the husband of Madeleine (Lettau) Riska. John was born on February 11, 1943, in Greenwich, son of the late Julius and Julia (Slink) Riska. He was an honorable veteran of the US Navy, where he served as an electronic technician and was in the front line of the Cuban Missile Crisis. John was a graduate of Wright Technical School. He relocated to the Danbury area in January 1968, where he opened his own garage. John was very mechanical and passionate about electronics, especially building radios, stereos and computers. He worked loyally as Bruce Bennett Nissan’s master auto technician and transmission specialist for 33 years until retiring in 2009. He enjoyed collecting wrist watches, clocks, Lionel trains, building model war-planes, boats, short wave and tube radios. He was a stereo buff and a fan of the New York Mets. John loved photography and shared this interest with his wife. Along with his loving wife of 47 years, Madeleine; he will be sadly missed by his daughter Debra Pereira of Danbury; daughter-in-law, Bernhild Riska of Alabama; sister, Pat Riska of Brookfield; his six treasured grandchildren Jason, Sharon,Sheila, and Brian Pereira, Tania Thompson and John Riska, II; and six great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a son, Daniel Riska.

View Full Notice → John J. Riska – February 11, 1943 – July 29, 2014

Joanne M. Montesi, 70, of Danbury, died peacefully at Danbury Hospital on Monday, August 4th. She was born in Danbury on May 24, 1944, daughter of the late Louis A. and Josephine (Renda) Montesi. She was a graduate of Danbury High School, Class of 1962, Rivier College, Class of 1966 and completed a Masters Degree at New York University. Joanne shared her passion for literature as an English teacher for Immaculate High School, retiring in 1999. After retirement she volunteered on the Immaculate High School Advisory Board. She also enjoyed tutoring students privately and was active with the Friends of the Danbury Library. She loved New York City, attending Broadway plays, and traveling both the US as well as abroad. She was a cherished friend who will be sadly missed by her family and many friends. She is survived by her brother, Louis A. Montesi, Jr., with whom she made her home in Danbury; as well as many aunts, uncles, beloved cousins and close friends.

View Full Notice → Joanne M. Montesi – May 24, 1944 – August 04, 2014

Violet (Corrigan) Halas, 90, of Danbury, wife of the late Donald Halas, died on Friday, August 8, 2014 at Hancock Hall. Violet was born on June 28, 1924 in Halifax, England; daughter of the late John and Violet (Powell) Corrigan. She was a war bride who came to the United States in 1946 and lived in the greater Danbury area for her entire life. She lost a son, John Michael Halas USMC, in an aviation accident on March 15, 1971. Violet was very proud of her son’s service. Violet is survived by her son Donald D. Halas and his wife Darlene of Oxford, daughter Susan V. Rathjen and her husband Neil of New Fairfield; five grandchildren, Stefanie Rathjen-Kelly and her husband Daniel Kelly of Plainsboro, NJ, Carolyn Rathjen-Borri and her husband Nicola Borri of Rome, Italy, John and his wife Iveta Rathjen of Fair Lawn, NJ, Donald D. Halas II of Oxford and Doug and his wife Rachel Claussen of Lawrence, KS; and eight great-grandchildren, Genevieve Kelly, Julianna Kelly, Olivia Borri, Ivana Rathjen, Zach Claussen, Will Claussen, Luke Claussen and Brooke Claussen.

View Full Notice → Violet Halas – June 28, 1924 – August 08, 2014

Paul T. La Terra, 89, of Bethel, beloved husband of Tina (Benedetto) La Terra, died peacefully at Danbury Hospital on Saturday, August 9th. He was born in Manhattan, NY on September 18, 1924, son of the late Salvatore and Carmella (Minardi) La Terra. He was a Veteran of World War II, proudly serving abroad with the United States Navy. Paul retired from Perkin Elmer as a Senior Technical Illustrator after 18 years of employment. He was a talented artist, who enjoyed painting, sculpting, and sketching. His creative inspiration came in many ways, including his wife, children, grandchildren and the scenery around him. The carved carousel horses which were inspired after the birth of his grandchildren will be a cherished family treasure. He also loved history, reading, gardening and conversation. In addition to his cherished wife of 66 years, Tina, he will be sadly missed by his son, Paul S. La Terra and his wife, Tracey of Brookfield; his daughter, Valerie Mucci and her husband, Paul, of Sherman; his four grandchildren, Christopher Mucci, Paul A. La Terra and his wife, Stephanie, Lauren Whitmore and her husband, Todd, and Daniel T. La Terra and his fiancé Anne Hines. He is also survived by many beloved brothers and sisters-in-law; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Santina Emma.

View Full Notice → Paul T. La Terra – September 18, 1924 – August 09, 2014

James E. Sweeney, 79, of Brookfield, cherished husband of Marie (Kelley) Sweeney, died peacefully at Danbury Hospital on August 10, 2014. He was born in Taunton, MA on July 19, 1935, son of the late James and Ann (Welch) Sweeney. He was a graduate Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where he was a member of the Alpha Chi Rho Fraternity. He was a parishoner of St. Joseph’s Church in Brookfield for 53 years. James retired from General Electric as a Senior Quality Control Engineer in 1995. He had previously worked for many years for National Semiconductor in Danbury. He was a member of the American Society for Quality. As a young man, he met his loving wife Marie Kelley, who was raised in Fall River, MA. The two shared 55 years of marriage and raised their family happily together. James was the family photographer, avid traveler, Red Sox fan and enjoyed studying genealogy. In addition to his beloved wife, Marie, he will be sadly missed by his daughter Ann Marie Kramer and her husband Kenneth of Convent Station, NJ; his three sons, James and his wife Lorraine of Caldwell, NJ, Paul and his wife Michele of Basking Ridge, NJ, and Matthew and his wife Meg of Belmont, MA; his eight grandchildren, KJ, John and Kevin Kramer, Jimmy, Beth, Shawn, Marie and Caroline Sweeney. He is also survived by his sister Ann McKeon; his brother in law James Kelley and his wife Gina; and several nieces and nephews.

View Full Notice → James Sweeney – July 19, 1935 – August 10, 2014

Jessica Marie Waldo, 27, of Brookfield, died peacefully at the Danbury Hospital on Saturday, August 9th. She was born in Danbury on December 18, 1986, daughter of Robert C. and Linda M. (Perrotti) Waldo of Brookfield. She was a graduate of Brookfield High School, Class of 2005. Jessica loved animals and enjoyed volunteering at New Milford Animal Welfare when she was able to. She was an avid reader of fantasy and fiction. She was lovingly referred to as “Aunt JJ” by her niece Sophie Linne, who adored her and could coax her into any activity. In addition to her parents, Robert and Linda, she will be sadly missed by her sister, Victoria McClelland and her husband, Eugene of New Milford; her beloved nieces, Sophie Linne and Audrey Rose; her grandparents, Robert and Dawn Waldo of Vermont; as well as many aunts, uncles and cousins.

View Full Notice → Jessica Marie Waldo – December 18, 1986 – August 09, 2014

Patricia W. Burns, 83, of Danbury, died at Danbury Hospital on Thursday, August 7th. She was born in Danbury on February 12, 1931, daughter of the late Anthony and Lena (Prebhayla) Wirtes. In her youth Pat played the trumpet in the Danbury Drum Corp, and proudly spoke of when she was honored to play at the inauguration of President Truman. She loved to recall the times she spent interacting with and watching Louie Armstrong and his band perform around the area in Washington D.C. while she lived there in her 20′s with her lifelong best friend, Millie Godfrey. She was well loved by the many she came to know while waitressing for the Old Oak and later at Magnifico’s. Most recently she enjoyed working for Bridgewater Chocolate in Brookfield. She was a dedicated sports fan with a passion for any sport, especially the Mets and Syracuse. She loved the PGA and kept a constant eye on the latest match. An adventurous spirit, she skied the slopes in Colorado in her 60’s and enjoyed body surfing in the ocean waves at the age of 80. She was happiest spending time with her family, appreciating all God’s beauty in nature, fishing, playing bingo and cards, going to tag sales, and running estate sales with her other closest friend, the late Mary Magnifico. She will be forever missed by her four sons, Joseph Demo (Ellen) of Florida, Richard Demo (Theresa) of New York, Barton Demo and Matthew Burns (Gemini), all of Colorado; her beloved daughter, Suzanne Carroll (Val) of Brookfield; her nine grandchildren, Andrew and Noelle Demo, Erica and Richard Demo, Jr (Kristen), Toni Lancaster (Troy), Nicole and Kyle Demo, Danica and Ben Carroll; and four great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, George Wirtes; her sister, Alberta Golder; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers, Stephen and William Wirtes; and her sister, Janet Forsberg.

View Full Notice → Patricia W. Burns – February 12, 1931 – August 07, 2014

Grace M. Bates passed away peacefully July 29, 2014 in Vero Beach, Florida. She was a resident of The Arbors, an assisted living facility, in Vero Beach. Grace was 91 years old. She was the daughter of Ruth Washburn Monroe and Lyman Gates Monroe. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Joseph R. Bates in 2006. Grace was born in Danbury, on August 9, 1922. She attended Danbury schools and was a graduate of Catherine Gibbs Secretarial School in Providence, Rhode Island. She worked as a secretary for the Mallory Hat Company up until her marriage to Joe Bates. She was also a secretary working for the law firm of Beliezna, Shovell and Frazell for twenty years, retiring in 1983. During World War II Grace was a “spotter” with the Aircraft Warning Service (AWS) and took shifts standing on Mallory Hat Factory’s roof looking for enemy planes. Like many other young couples who married right after the War, she and her new husband chose New Fairfield to settle in and start a family. New Fairfield held many happy memories for Grace. She was a member of the Townland Club, welcoming new residents and introducing them to the small-town friendliness of New Fairfield. She had many fond memories of taking her children, to the New Fairfield town park on Candlewood Lake for swim lessons every morning and having wonderful summer picnics with the other young mothers and their children after lessons. Our Mom loved making a warm home for her husband and children and was known for her wonderful cooking, dinner parties and sewing skills. Everyone knew they would be welcome to stop in and visit and be greeted with a warm smile, and of course a snack. She and her husband loved to travel and enjoyed taking vacations in Hatteras, North Carolina, going cross-country visiting many of our country’s national parks or traveling to Europe. Grace and Joe were seasonal residents of Vero Beach, Florida for 15 years, before becoming permanent residents in 2006. Grace was a member of the New Fairfield Congregational Church. She was also a member of the New Fairfield Lionesses and the D&M Society. We would like to extend a special thanks to the Staff of The Arbors for their gentle care, kindness and friendship shown to our Mom. They not only gave professional care but gave her their friendship as well and made Mom feel that she was safe, secure and at home. We cannot thank them enough.

View Full Notice → Grace M. Bates – August 09, 1922 – July 29, 2014

Louise A. Battaglia, 67, of Woodbury, died peacefully at Bethel Healthcare Center on Sunday, August 17th. She was born in Bridgeport on October 26, 1946, daughter of the late Alexander and Mary Jaine Alain. Louise was a loving homemaker who devoted her life to raising her three sons. She loved to cook for her family and was especially happy when planning the family meal for the holidays. In recent years, she loved helping her friends and customers as a sales associate for Chico’s in the Danbury Fair Mall. She will be sadly missed by her three sons, Joseph Battaglia and his wife, Julie of Frisco, Tx, Bryan Battaglia and his wife, Lashonda of Montgomery Al, and Cory Battaglia and his wife, Cara of Danbury; her seven grandchildren, Jake, Brock, Elle, Mackenzie, Blayne, Zaria and Jionni. She is also survived by her friend and in-law, Rafe Gradia of Danbury; as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers, Claude and Paul; and her sisters, Claire and Muriel.

View Full Notice → Louise A. Battaglia – October 26, 1946 – August 17, 2014

Paul E. Barriere, Sr., of Danbury, beloved husband of the late Mary Lou (Badaracco) Barriere, died peacefully on Thursday, August 21st at Pope John Paul Center for Healthcare in Danbury. He was born in Leominster, MA on September11, 1929, son of the late Edward and Lena (Goguen) Barriere. He was a graduate of St. Joseph School in Danbury. Paul was a Veteran of the Korean War and recipient of the National Defense Service Medal while proudly serving with the United States Army. He was a member of the Catholic War Veterans. He worked in various positions with Leahy’s Oil, retiring after more than fifty years of service. In his younger years he enjoyed painting in preparation for the Danbury Fair, and being involved with the Danbury Racearena. He also enjoyed collecting die cast trucks, his Mustang convertible, and country music. He loved dogs, both his own and his family members, and supported the Danbury Animal Welfare Society. Most importantly, Paul was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and was lovingly known as “GG Pa” by his great grandchildren. He will be sadly missed by his daughter, Ann A. Underhill and her husband, George of Danbury; his son, Paul E. Barriere, Jr. and his wife, Dianne of Bethel; his grandchildren, George H. Underhill IV, Shannon A. Stewart and her husband, James, Jake, Bruce, Shane and Gina Barriere; and his three great grandchildren, Zachary Underhill, Leah and Colin Stewart. He is also survived by his cherished sister, Nancy Currier; his brother-in-law, Dominic Badaracco and his wife, Joan; and sister-in-law, Patricia Jennings; as well as many nieces and nephews.

View Full Notice → Paul E. Barriere Sr. – September 11, 1929 – August 21, 2014

Lisa Marie (Alexander) Tilzer, 59, of Danbury, beloved wife of Robert Greg Tilzer, died Monday, August 25, 2014 in Danbury Hospital. She was born on February, 13, 1955, daughter of Barbara (Bestmann) and the late William Alexander. Along with her husband Robert, and mother Barbara, she will be sadly missed by her son David Michael Tilzer and his wife Carmen, granddaughter Haileigh Selene and brother William L. Alexander.

View Full Notice → Lisa M. Tilzer – February 13, 1955 – August 25, 2014

Christina I. Miller, 71, of Brookfield, died at Danbury Hospital on Saturday, August 23rd, after a brief illness. She was born in Bronx, NY on June 22, 1943, daughter of the late George Miller and Anne (Pochurko) Licari. Christina enjoyed working as a cashier for Stop & Shop in New Milford, and previously at Dunkin Donuts. She was a longtime Yankee Fan, and was an avid bowler. She was active on the Board of the Danbury USBC Bowling Association, and was the secretary of the Women’s Major League in Brookfield. She enjoyed competing alongside her sister in local, state, and national tournaments. Christina will be sadly missed by her beloved sister, Mary Ann Bates (William Eayrs), with whom she made her home in Brookfield; her two nephews, Robert A. Bates, and Clifford Bates (Jennifer); three nieces, Debra Pomales (Tony), Patricia Burns (Russell), and Laurie Dalzell (James); and fourteen great nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother, Theodore Miller.

View Full Notice → Christinia I. Miller – June 22, 1943 – August 23, 2014

William Ferris, 49, of New Milford, beloved husband of Kim (Cyr) Ferris, died at New Milford Hospital on August 9, 2014. He was born in Danbury on November 16, 1964, son of the late William and Elaine (LeRoux) Ferris. Bill worked as a carpenter for Ferris Custom Stairs for more than thirty years. He loved fishing, the outdoors, and the racetrack. He was a talented wood carver. In addition to his wife, Kim, he will be sadly missed by his son, Jeffrey Wooley; his five granddaughters; and five siblings, John Ferris and his wife, Judy, Joe Ferris and his wife, Barbara, Jeffrey Ferris and his wife, Joann, Jude Ferris, and Margaret Tomlin and her husband, Orle. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews; his dear friends, Clarence Shrack, Steve McBergin, Bob Munday, Mike, Wendy and Taylor Yoder.

View Full Notice → William Ferris – November 16, 1964 – August 09, 2014

Mary A. (Addessi) Cipolla, 81, of Brookfield, went to be with our Lord on Friday, August 29th. The daughter of the late Albert and Rosary (Peppe) Addessi, she was predeceased by her husband, Frank Cipolla Jr. A graduate of Danbury High and a lifelong resident of Brookfield, she was active in her community and served as Registrar of Voters. Who can forget her cheery smile as she served as a waitress at the Hearth Restaurant for many years. A devout Catholic, her faith was an inspiration to us all. Mary was very involved with the Brookfield Senior Center traveling along with her loving friends on many an adventure. She also lent her singing talents to the Sharps & Flats as they entertained in the area. A proud member of The Red Hats, Mary also enjoyed swimming at the YMCA, and attending the numerous events for her grandchildren. Mary’s love seemingly knew no limits. She was always there for her beloved family. She will be missed beyond words by her two sons, Robert Cipolla and his wife, Thayer of New Fairfield, and David Cipolla of Torrington; her daughter Luanne and her husband, Bill of New Fairfield; her five grandchildren, Shaela (Cipolla) Hillmann and her husband Greg of Brookfield; Rebecca (Cipolla) Katkocin and her husband Andrew of New Fairfield; Leana Cipolla of New Fairfield; Kevin Hogan of Danbury; Katherine Hogan of New Fairfield; her two great grandchildren, Tyler and Julia Hillmann.

View Full Notice → Mary A. Cipolla – September 29, 1932 – August 29, 2014

Lena (Ferrante) Franzese, 93, of Brookfield, beloved wife of the late Orlando Franzese, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, August 31st surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Esperia, Italy, on August 7, 1921, daughter of the late Antonio and Maria Ferrante. She grew up in the Bronx and later lived in Queens before moving to Brookfield in 1974. Lena worked for many years as a seamstress in the garment district of NYC. A devout catholic and a woman of very strong faith, Lena was a long time member of St Joseph’s Parish in Brookfield. Lena enjoyed baking, crocheting, sewing and gardening. She was also an avid fan of the UCONN women’s basketball team. Lena was a loving mother and grandmother and her grandsons were the light of her life. She was always there for everyone she knew. In recent years she enjoyed many activities at Bethel Healthcare, including bingo, rosary group and flower arranging. The family wishes to thank the loving community at Bethel Health Care for all they brought to Lena’s life. She will be missed beyond words by her daughter Judy McGorty, her husband Michael and her grandsons Michael Jr and Steven of Brookfield. She is survived by her two sisters Theresa and Josephine, her brother Frank and several nieces and nephews.

View Full Notice → Lena F. Franzese – August 07, 1921 – August 31, 2014

Grace Victoria Hannan, 93, of Danbury, died on September 2, 2014 at home surrounded by her family. She was born on November 23, 1920 in Danbury, daughter of the late George and Victoria (Ellis) Hannan. Grace started working for J. Henry Brett Insurance agency at the of 18. She later owned the business and retired at 84. Grace treated the customers like family, always helped when they needed it. Grace treated her many nieces and nephews as if they were her own children. She was very kind and loved by everyone. Grace is survived by her sister Catherine Clement; her nephews James Clement and his wife Sharon, Dean Esposti; Anthony Clement, Mark Esposti and his wife Lynn, Michael Clement and his wife Wanda; her nieces Ann Bucchi and her husband Rick, Susan Haug and her husband Jim, Gina Murphy and her husband Bill, Joan Buszta and her husband Ron, Cathy Scargill and her husband Jorge Fernandes, Lynn LeClair and her husband Jeff; several great and great-great nieces and nephews; and her devoted pets Daisy and Sassy

View Full Notice → Grace V. Hannan – November 23, 1920 – September 02, 2014

MaryEllen (Levasseur) da Cruz, 69, of Leesburg, VA, previously of Brookfield, former wife of the late Edward da Cruz, Jr., died peacefully at Heritage Hall in Leesburg, VA on Saturday, August 30th. She was born in Fort Kent, Maine, on December 17, 1944, daughter of the late Emile and RoseMary (Pinette) Levasseur. MaryEllen was a homemaker who lovingly devoted herself to her family. She will be sadly missed by her son, Michael da Cruz and his wife, Deirdre of Cumming, GA; her daughter, Stacey da Cruz Steinman and her husband, A. Donald of Leesburg, VA; her five grandchildren, Danielle, and Robert da Cruz, Samantha, Sydney and Charles Steinman. She is also survived by her brothers, Emile and Carroll Levasseur; and her sisters, Joanne Plourde and Judy Levasseur.

View Full Notice → MaryEllen da Cruz – December 17, 1944 – August 30, 2014

“Jerry” Gerald Clayton Dexter, 70, of Danbury, beloved husband of Lora (Favreau),died on September 3rd, in Bethel Healthcare. He was born on October 20,1943 in Mount Kisco, NY. He worked locally for several years in home construction and remodeling until being diagnosed with ocular melanoma. Along with his wife, Lora, he will be sadly missed by his five daughters, Stephanie Dexter, Victoria Mangado, Melinda Kayser, Cynthia McNerney, Lisa Karas, nine wonderful grandchildren; and his two brothers, Theodore and Joseph. He was predeceased by his brothers William, John, and Thomas. Private services will be held at a later date. The family would like to thank Dr. Richard Carvajal and his staff at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for all their continued efforts.

View Full Notice → Gerald Clayton Dexter – October 20, 1943 – September 03, 2014