Paul Martin Pudelka, age 89 of Danbury, died on Friday January 9th at his residence following a short illness. He was the husband of the late Dorothy (Sprague) Pudelka. Paul was born June 28, 1925 in Danbury, the son of the late John and Ann (Ceresna) Pudelka. A lifelong resident of Danbury, he was a graduate of local schools, and served in the U.S. Marine Corps during WWII. Following his discharge, Paul was employed with the United States Postal Service as a clerk at the Danbury Post Office on Main Street for over 30 years, retiring in 1985. A passionate gardener, he grew vegetable gardens throughout his life, and was the operator of Westville Nursery in Danbury for many years. Paul also was a trapper and seller of muskrat and mink fur. Paul is survived by his children: Caprice F. Ruopp and her husband Dennis of Danbury, Paul T. Pudelka and his wife Connie of Danbury, James M. Pudelka of Windsor Locks, and Patricia A. Pudelka of Danbury, one brother: Robert Pudelka of New Fairfield, eight grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will take place on Thursday January 15th at 11:00am in the Cornell Memorial Home, 247 White Street, Danbury with the Rev. Walter Harper, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Danbury officiating. Burial will be in the Milltown Rural Cemetery, Southeast, NY.

View Full Notice → Paul M. Pudelka – June 28, 1925 – January 09, 2015

John P. Borduas, 79, of West Palm Beach, Florida, formerly of Danbury, beloved husband of Denise (Quenneville) Borduas, died at Danbury Hospital on Wednesday, January 7th. He was born in Montreal, Quebec on June 8, 1935, son of the late Joseph and Antoinette (Vary) Borduas. Mr. Borduas worked as a heavy equipment operator for many years before retiring to West Palm Beach, Florida. He enjoyed many summers camping with his grandchildren in Otis Massachusetts at Klondike camping resort, where he leaves behind many friends. His favorite pass times included fishing, doing large puzzles. and spending with his beloved family. In addition to his cherished wife, Denise, he will be sadly missed by his daughter, Suzanne Borduas-Marchessault and her husband, Kim of Toronto; his three sons, John Borduas and his wife, Joann Paiva, DDS, David Borduas and his wife, Joanne, and Patrick Borduas; three grandchildren, Gabrielle Marchessault, Christopher and Jessica Borduas. He is also survived by his sister, Lise Walker; his brothers, Joseph and Jaque Borduas; and many nieces and nephews.

View Full Notice → John P. Borduas – June 08, 1935 – January 07, 2015

Marian Frances Sundlof, age 77 of West Redding, died on January 12th at Danbury Hospital following a long illness. She was the wife of John E. Sundlof, Sr. Marian was born in Danbury June 28, 1937, the daughter of the late Pasquale and Dorothy (Sousa) Achiere. She was a graduate of Danbury High School Class of 1955, and had been a resident of West Redding for over 50 years. Marian worked in assembly for a number of manufacturing companies in the Danbury area, including the Risdon, Amphenol, and Perkin Elmer Co’s. She was a founder of the Georgetown Volunteer Fire Company Auxiliary, and was its first president. In her spare time, Marian especially enjoyed travelling with her husband John, and spending time with her children, and grandchildren. In addition to her husband of 57 years, Marian is survived by her children: Irene F. Lawrenia and her husband Peter of Danbury, John E. Sundlof Jr. of Redding, April I. Sundlof of Monroe, and Craig A. Sundlof of West Redding, two brothers: Patrick Archiere and Daniel Archiere both of Danbury, two sisters: Donna Conway and Rosanne Dachenhausen, both of Danbury, four grandchildren: Peter Lawrenia, Brian Lawrenia, John Sundlof III, and Vanessa Pagan, two great grandchildren: Makayla and Aiden Lawrenia, as well as several nieces and nephews. Marian was predeceased by her brothers Tony Archiere and Cary Archiere.

View Full Notice → Marian Frances Sundlof – June 28, 1937 – January 12, 2015

Anna Marie Smith, 94, of Ridgefield, died on Tuesday, January 13th at Hancock Hall. She was born in Brooklyn, NY on March 3, 1920. Daughter of the late Philip and Anne (Traynor) Carolan.

View Full Notice → Anna Smith – March 03, 1920 – January 13, 2015

Mary A. Chasen (Abbruscato) 97 of Danbury, beloved wife of the late August Chasen, died peacefully, at The Gardens in Danbury. Mary was born in New York City on May 4, 1917 to the late Nicholas and Vencenza (Cimilluca) Abbruscato. She spent her childhood and early adult years in Jackson Heights, Queens before moving to Wantagh, Mineola, and Loch Sheldrake, NY; and finally to Danbury to be closer to family. Mary, was a 1934 graduate of Newtown High School in Elmhurst, N.Y. She held several positions during her work years. Her happiest were those spent with an engineering company first in New York City then in East Northport, NY. Mary was a parishioner of St. Gregory the Great Church and an active member of the community at The Gardens. She enjoyed taking painting lessons, playing Wii bowling, cards, bingo and any and all word games. One of Mary’s favorite lifelong activities had been going to the beach where she could sit in the sun playing cards while talking with friends and family. At the Gardens, Mary could frequently be found sitting outside on the patio or in the garden soaking up the sun. Mary and Augie loved to travel, driving throughout the US, then later cruising. After Augie’s death and fighting her fear of flying, she traveled to Europe, South America, Mexico and Hawaii. In addition to her parents and husband, Mary was predeceased by her sister Martha Saso, and brothers Frank and Phil Scott and their respective spouses. Mary will be sadly missed by her niece and caregiver, Mary Kiniry of Danbury, her brother Nicholas T. Scott, Sr. of Kingston, NY, her two nephews, Thomas B. Saso (Maree), Florida and Nicholas T. Scott, Jr; N.Y. and her niece, Vivian Beu (Greg) of Australia. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and nephews and several great-grand nieces and great-grand nephews. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the other residents and staff of the Gardens for their loving care and friendship and to Doctors Howard Kaplan and Brian Pollack for their care.

View Full Notice → Mary A. Chasen – May 04, 1917 – January 04, 2015

Anthony Gregory Ducati, 82, of Danbury, husband of the late Patricia Ann Mitchell, died on January 15, 2015 at Glen Hill.

View Full Notice → Anthony G. Ducati – June 09, 1932 – January 15, 2015

Joy (Testanero) Steinman, 61, of West Palm Beach, beloved wife of Timothy Steinman, died at Broward Health Medical Center on Saturday, January 10th. She was born in Danbury, CT, daughter of Jack Testanero and his late wife, Willetta. Joy was a member of New Life Alliance Church West Palm Beach, Fl. Joy worked alongside her husband, Tim, in their family business. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother who loved caring and spending time with her family. She will be remembered for her strong character, generous heart, and her beautiful smile. In addition to her cherished husband of 38 years, Tim; and her father, Jack, she will be sadly missed by her three children, Dillon, Cody, and Brittany and her grandson, Zechariah. Joy will also be missed by family and friends too numerous to mention. She was predeceased by her brother, Jack Testanero.

View Full Notice → Joy Steinman – May 04, 1953 – January 10, 2015

David R. Cole, Sr., age 73 of Brookfield, died on January 21st at Sloan Kettering Memorial Hospital. He was the husband of Carol A. (Sherwood) Cole. David was born May 24, 1941 in Danbury, the son of the late Reuben J. Jr. and Ethel (Barrett) Cole. He was a graduate of Danbury High School, Class of 1959 and had served in the Army National Guard. David was employed as a senior account executive with the Connecticut Light and Power Co, retiring in 2006 after 46 years of service. A resident of Brookfield since 1965, David was a longtime member and former president of the Brookfield Volunteer Fire Company, Center Co. He was instrumental in the construction of the firehouse on Pocono Road, and was the recipient of several awards. David also served the Town of Brookfield as a member of its Economic Development Commission. He was a member of the Housatonic Valley Economic Development Partnership, the Fairfield County Home Builders Association, and the Brookfield Sportsman’s Club. In his retirement, David mostly enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. He enjoyed travelling, fishing, and tinkering with projects around the home. In addition to his wife Carol, David is survived by his children: David R. Cole Jr. and his wife Elizabeth of Brookfield, and Tammy Daskalakis and her husband George of Brookfield, one brother: Donald Cole and his wife Linda of Newtown, his five grandchildren: Emily Prescott and her husband Ryan, Nicole Daskalakis, George Daskalakis, David R. “Ben” Cole, III, and William Cole, as well as nieces and nephews. David was predeceased by his sister Ann Theissen. David was known to some as “Jake”, “Rodney”, or just “Dave”. Nicknames aside, his family will remember the strength of his handshake, the calmness in his voice, the kindness of his heart, and his will to persevere against all odds.

View Full Notice → David R. Cole,Sr. – May 24, 1941 – January 21, 2015

Julie Ann Roehm Green, devoted mother, friend, artist, and lover of life, passed away January 21st at her home in Brookfield, after a courageous 2 and a half year journey with ALS. She was 65. Julie was endlessly empathetic, focused on giving friendship and support. Her eyes always sparkled with mischievousness, and she filled the lives of those around her with shared laughter. She was a devoted member of the Walnut Hill Community church, and was anchored by her love of God and the community she found there. Her family, friends and community will remember her for her strength of spirit, her humor, and her grace. Julie was an artist throughout her life, capturing the beauty she saw in the world through her drawings, watercolor paintings and photography. She received her Masters in Design from RIT in 1976, after undergraduate study at both University of Dayton and RIT. In her early career her design and art direction clients included Nolan Bushnell, Kodak, and Sarah Coventry. She continued to paint and take photographs until she was no longer able to hold a brush or camera. During her time in Brookfield, Julie was actively involved in the lives of her children and their friends. She was committed to the relationships she built volunteering through Catholic Charities. After a long-term affliction with Lyme disease, she started a Lyme awareness education program through the Brookfield Education Foundation, in schools and town parks. Julie was born in Ft. Lauderdale, FL on April 10th, 1949 to Robert J. and Janith T. (Schaefer) Roehm, and grew up in Cleveland, OH. She is survived by her daughter, Sara Green of Brooklyn, NY; her son, Jonathan Green of Philadelphia, PA; her sisters, Kathleen Vargo and husband, Jerry of Denver, CO, and Elizabeth McDonald of Seattle WA; her brother, Robert Roehm, Jr. and his wife, Margaret of Houston, TX. She is also survived by her former husband, Lee D. Green of Raleigh, NC; and her dear friends and caregivers, Koryne Garcia of Danbury and Gloria Dailey of Brookfield.

View Full Notice → Julie Ann Green – April 10, 1949 – January 21, 2015

John Peter Sutich died peacefully January 23rd, 2015. He was born in West New York, New Jersey on August 6, 1927 to Anton and Frieda Sutich, the youngest of four children. After growing up in West New York, at the age of 17, he joined the U.S. Navy and served until 1946. After leaving the service, he worked various jobs as a bus cleaner, pipe coverer, and at a slaughterhouse. He eventually pursued higher education graduating from Catholic University of America in Washington D.C. in 1958. Over the next ten years he taught at high schools in Silver Spring, MD, Bardstown, KY and Brooklyn, NY. While studying for his Masters Degree at Wesleyan University in Middletown Connecticut, he met his future bride Rosemary. They married in 1970. At that time he began teaching at Ridgefield High School and served as an American history teacher and dean until his retirement in 1998. In 1984, he was honored as Ridgefield’s Teacher of the Year. In addition to his love of teaching, he took immense pride in raising his two sons and actively supporting their sports and activities. In retirement he served as an adjunct professor of history at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury, dabbled in acting at the Ridgefield Playhouse, and accomplished his goal of visiting his father’s hometown in Croatia. In 2007, John and Rosemary relocated to Melrose, Massachusetts. John is survived by his wife Rosemary, his two sons John and Stefan, two daughters-in-law Lisa and Alison and 5 beloved grandchildren: Andrew, Meryl, Adeline, Leo and Spencer. He was predeceased by his brother Chris, sisters Barbara and Catherine.

View Full Notice → John P. Sutich – August 06, 1927 – January 23, 2015

Waltraud “Wally” Berta Hallock, 89, wife of the late Calvin H. Hallock, Sr. and daughter of the late Walter and Dora (Marxen) Bruenecke, passed away peacefully at Danbury Healthcare in Danbury on January 25th. She was born in Schleswig, Germany on February 26, 1925. At 4 months of age, her family came to America and settled in Nebraska. She later moved to Connecticut and resided in Bethel and New Milford. She was a loving mother and devoted grandmother. Babysitting her grandchildren gave her much joy and love. Waltraud will be sadly missed by her six children: Janet Britto and her husband Edward, Carol Zaloski, Georgia Fredlund and her husband Gene, Calvin Hallock and his wife Genevieve, Raymond Hallock and his wife Charlotte, and John Hallock; her seven cherished grandchildren: Kevin and Jameson Zaloski, Ethan and Corey Britto, and Jonathan, Kyle and Chloe Hallock; and seven treasured great grandchildren. She is also survived by her two sisters: Eleanore Fuller and Lisa Jessen. She is predeceased by her two brothers, Richard and Otto Bruenecke and a sister, Betty Ryan.

View Full Notice → Waltraud Berta Hallock – February 26, 1925 – January 25, 2015

Terry Arthur Barrett Terry A. Barrett, 73 of Ocala, Florida, formerly of Danbury and Newtown, died on January 27th after an extended illness. He was the husband of Carol (Stone) Barrett. Terry was born on February 2, 1941 in Danbury, to the late Arthur & Margaret (Fowler) Barrett of Georgetown. He retired from Perkin Elmer after 20 years service and ran a successful courier service for many years out of Danbury. He enjoyed photography, collecting eclectic art, cooking and the companionship of his two cats that were always by his side. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children; David and his wife Dawn of Newtown, Robin of Southbury, Jennifer of Newtown, Steven and his wife Annette of Oakville and his four grandchildren Hannah, Seth, Abiane and Alyssa. He is also survived by his brother Brian Barrett of Danbury. As well as his step-children; Diane Cuoco and her husband Scott of Windermere, Fl and Dawn Ramadon and her husband Tom of Bartlett, NH. He was predeceased by his first wife Penelope Henckel Barrett in 2006.

View Full Notice → Terry Arthur Barrett – February 2, 1941 – January 27, 2015

Anna M. Gantert, 87, of Sandy Hook, cherished wife of 64 years to the late Harold E. Gantert, died peacefully at Danbury Hospital on Thursday, January 29th. She was born in Danbury on October 1, 1927, daughter of the late Peter J. and Anna (Travoska) Burns. She was a graduate of Danbury High School, and became a Registered Nurse through St. Vincent’s Hospital. Anna retired from Pediatric Associates and also enjoyed working in the Danbury Hospital OR and for Glen Hill. A loving homemaker, Anna was happiest spending time with her family, and being active with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved to travel with her husband, Harold, going skiing, dancing, or taking in dinner and a show. She was a diehard Red Sox fan. Anna had a talent for making handmade crafts, including Christmas ornaments that bless the homes of many family members and friends. Most importantly, Anna and Harold’s strong love and bond of family will be carried on through their children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and generations to come. Anna will be sadly missed by her two sons, Joseph E. Gantert and his wife, Patricia of Sandy Hook, and Harold D. Gantert and his wife, Amy of New Milford; her three grandchildren, Amanda Beers and her husband, Tim, Lianne Jacob and her husband, Scott, Joseph E. Gantert, Jr. and his wife, Stacy; her two great grandchildren, Morgan and Alexa; and she was anxiously awaiting the birth of two new great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, Joseph J. Burns and his wife, Midge.

View Full Notice → Anna M. Gantert – October 01, 1927 – January 29, 2015

Doris Arlene Pesente, 91, of Bethel, wife of the late John J. Pesente, died on January 27th in Danbury Hospital after a short illness. She was born on September 5, 1923 in Bethel. She was the daughter of the late Arthur and Lydia (Sailor) Renner. Doris was a past parishioner of St. Mary’s and St. Joseph’s and was very generous. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great great grandmother. Doris was a homemaker, an avid reader and a great cook/baker. She was best known for her cherry cheesecake. She loved knitting and sewing for her children. She will be sadly missed by her two sons; John A. Pesente and his wife Mary M. of FL, Joseph P. Pesente and his wife Jo-Ann of New Milford; her two daughters; Doris “Cookie” Anderson and her husband Robert of FL, Carley Pesente of Bethel; also by eleven cherished grandchildren, Cheryl Gaylord, Brent and Brian Graham, Christina Rowland, John Michael Pesente, Catherine Jameson, Kimberly Lauden, Derek Pesente, Ian Ducan, Chelbi and Benjamin Cass, along with fifteen great grandchildren, and six great great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Gloria Marshall of Woodbury and several nieces and nephews. Doris is predeceased by her daughter Maryanne Potter, and two grandsons, William Dean Jr., and OSSN James Pesente, USSN.

View Full Notice → Doris Arlene Pesente – September 05, 1923 – January 27, 2015

Frederick J. Cunningham, 98, of New Fairfield, beloved husband of 70 years to the late Carolyn (Schober) Cunningham, died peacefully at Bethel Healthcare in Bethel on Sunday, February 1st. He was born in Albany, NY on March 1, 1916, son of the late Fred J. and Emma (Partelow) Cunningham. He was a parishioner of St. Edward the Confessor Church. Mr. Cunningham was a Veteran of World War II, proudly serving with the United States Army, 191st Tank Battalion in North Africa, Italy and France. He was a member of the Veterans Association in New Fairfield. He was also an EMT for the New Fairfield Volunteer Fire Department. He was an avid fisherman. He will be sadly missed by his son, Michael Cunningham and his wife, Jo-Anna of Danbury; his daughter, Kathleen Lindquist and her husband, Gary of New Fairfield; his grandchildren, Kevin Lindquist and his wife, Michelle, and Kelly Lindquist; and his great grandchildren, Hannah Wilson, Mikayla, Jenna, and Katelyn Lindquist. He was predeceased by his two sisters, Ruth Athiser, and AnnaMae Brew.

View Full Notice → Frederick J. Cunningham – March 01, 1916 – February 01, 2015

John R. Bruggeman, 70, of New Milford, beloved husband of Eileen (Quinn) Bruggeman, died peacefully at New Milford Hospital on Sunday, February 1st. He was born in New York, NY on October 2, 1944, son of the late George and Irene (Brannelly) Bruggeman. He was a parishioner of St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Church in Brookfield. John proudly served with the United States Air Force in Panama, Greenland and South America during peacetime. He retired as a Communications Engineer from AT&T, formerly known as New York Telephone, after many years. Upon retirement he enjoyed working as a photo lab technician for Costco in Brookfield. John enjoyed golf, traveling, and spending time with his family. He loved to make others laugh and will be remembered for his quick wit and ability to brighten a room. In addition to his cherished “Bride” of 44 years, Eileen, he will be sadly missed by his son, David Bruggeman of New Milford; his daughter, Ellen Blejwas and her husband, Adam of Princeton, NJ; his three granddaughters, Madelyn Rose Bruggeman, Sophie and Juliet Blejwas; his two sisters, Regina Parker and her husband, Richard, Terry Schultz; his niece, Christina Stauble and her husband, Thomas of Brookfield; and nieces and nephews.

View Full Notice → John R. Bruggeman – October 02, 1944 – February 01, 2015

Mildred Jackson, 89, of Danbury, wife of the late Winston Jackson, died peacefully at Bethel Healthcare on Tuesday, February 3 rd. She was born in the Bronx, NY on July 7, 1925, daughter of the late Michael and Mary (Gianninoto) Mansueto. Mildred worked for many years for Perkin Elmer in Danbury. She retired as an office administrator from Western Connecticut State University. She was an active member of the Danbury Senior Center and enjoyed playing Mahjong with her many friends there. Having grown up in a family of dressmakers, she enjoyed sharing her talent making clothing and dresses for her children. She continued in recent years by volunteering to make dresses for the underprivileged. Mildred will be remembered for her kind and caring spirit. She loved to cook and entertain friends and family, and there was “always room for one more” at her table. She will be sadly missed by her son, Michael Jackson, his significant Patricia Hoffman; her daughters, Deborah Mathisen and her husband, Paul, and Susan Jackson and her husband, Stephen Burke; her beloved sister, Lucy Penna; six cherished grandchildren, Stephen and his wife Katherine, Michael and his wife Courtney, Michele, John, Stephanie and Peter; two treasured great grandchildren, Wynstyn and Afton, and many loving, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

View Full Notice → Mildred Jackson – July 07, 1925 – February 03, 2015

Marie Dorothy Silvestrino, 98, of New Fairfield, wife of the late Frank Silvestrino, died on Monday, February 2nd at her home. She was born on October 29, 1916 in New York, NY. She is the daughter of the late Anthony Spero and Theodora Russo.

View Full Notice → Marie Dorothy Silvestrino – October 29, 1916 – February 02, 2015

Carolyn M. (Crocomo) Zimmermann, died Feb. 4, 2015. She was born in Derby, CT in 1918. She was previously deceased by her husband Arthur J. Zimmermann, they had been married for 70 years. A long time resident of New Fairfield, Carolyn and Arthur built their dream home there 60 years ago, where she was able to reside until her death. Carolyn had been a Registered Nurse, and also was active as a member of St. Edward’s (R.C.) Church. Carolyn is survived by several nieces and nephews.

View Full Notice → Carolyn Zimmermann – July 15, 1918 – February 04, 2015

Maureen Kathrine Major, age 63, passed away quietly at home on February 7, 2015 surrounded by her family and friends. She was the wife of the love of her life and dancing partner, Abe Ullah. She was born on November 1, 1951in Brooklyn, NY, daughter of the late Donald and Mary (McCahill) Luff. Maureen was employed by Hearst Media as a Digital Media Specialist. She also enjoyed her position as a union organizer for CWA Local 1103 in Port Chester, NY. Maureen was most well known for giving selflessly to her church and community. Among many of her contributions: Bethel Jaycees, Pop Warner Football, St. Mary School Board, Immaculate High School, Bethel Republican Town Committee, Bethel Planning & Zoning Commission, Board of Trustees of the Church of St. Mary; She has many friends from all of these organizations. In September of 2014, Maureen was recognized by the Diocese of Bridgeport with the St. Augustine Medal of Service. In addition to her husband, Abe, Maureen is survived by her beloved son, Brendan of Suffolk County, NY; a brother: Kevin Luff of Oceanside, NY; a sister: Laura (Luff) Rosalia of Florida; and a step daughter Karina Ullah-Minacapelli and her husband, Reno, of Scottsdale, AZ; many cousins, nieces and nephews. Maureen was devoted to her family and she will be greatly missed. We are comforted that she now joins her son, Christian, in heaven. Maureen wishes to leave all of you with her favorite quote “CARPE DIEM”. (seize the day)

View Full Notice → Maureen Kathrine Major – November 01, 1951 – February 07, 2015