Barbara A. Stender

Mrs. Barbara A. Stender, age 76, of Middlebury, entered peaceful rest on Friday, Jan. 16, 2015 at Yale-New Haven Hospital.

She was born on July 13, 1938 in Bridgeport and was the daughter of the late Robert and Pauline (Jones) Stender.

Barbara was an electrical harness assembler at Sikorsky Aircraft for 12 years before her retirement.

She will be remembered for her great sense of humor, indomitable spirit and love of family and friends. Barbara was greatly loved and will be dearly missed.

Barbara is survived by her four devoted children, Sheila Merithew of Naugatuck, Jeffrey Maynard and his wife Kimberly of Michigan, Jane Henry and her husband Brian of Seymour, and Carrie Mitton of Beacon Falls, eleven grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband, Kenneth Maynard.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, January 22 at 7 p.m. at the Beacon Falls Congregational Church, 69 Wolf Avenue in Beacon Falls. Interment will be held in private in Vermont. There will be no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 659 Tower Avenue, Hartford, CT 06112. Arrangements have been entrusted with the Ralph E. Hull Funeral Home, 161 West Church Street, Seymour.

To share a memory, please go only to www.hullfh.com.

John J. Valeria

John J. Valeria, 90, of Ansonia, unexpectedly entered into eternal rest on Saturday January 17, 2015, in the comfort of his home. He was the beloved husband of the late Rose Emanuele Valeria.

Mr. Valeria was born in Shelton on August 14, 1924, son of the late Benjamin and Carrie Giordano Valeria.

He was employed as a lab technician at the former B.F. Goodrich in Shelton and later at Sikorsky Aircraft in Stratford until his retirement. A proud veteran, he honorably served during WW 2 as a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army.

John was a devoted communicant of Holy Rosary Church in Ansonia. There, he was a member of the Catholic Men’s Club, St. Joseph Men’s Society, Knights of Columbus, bocce league, church choir, usher at 9:30 am Mass, and a fixture in the calamari booth at the annual Italian festival.

His loving family includes two daughters, Deborah Ann DiDio (John) of Chesapeake, VA and Charlene Velardi of Ansonia, a brother, Richard Valeria of Seymour, a sister, Rose Marie Salerno (Sam) of Cocoa, FL, cherished grandchildren, John D. DiDio (Leanna) of Lorton, VA, Michael DiDio of Seattle, WA, Matthew DiDio (Cecelia) of Alexandria, VA, David J. Velardi and Samantha Velardi of Ansonia, great-grandchildren, Aiden, Zackary, Austin, Sophia Rose and Luke DiDio and several nieces, nephews and friends.

He was predeceased by his son in law, Mark A. Velardi.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday January 20, 2015, from 4-7 pm in the chapel of the SPINELLI-RICCIUTI/BEDNAR-OSIECKI FUNERAL HOME, 62 Beaver Street in Ansonia. On Wednesday, his funeral will be held at 9:15 am from the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at Holy Rosary Church in Ansonia. Interment with U.S. Army military honors will take place in Mt. St. Peter Cemetery in Derby.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Holy Rosary Church through the funeral home.

To send an act of sympathy, please visit www.spinelliricciutifh.com.

Lothar E. “Luke” Saager, age 73, of Oxford, formerly of Monroe, entered peaceful rest January 14, 2015 at his home surrounded by his loving family; he was the beloved husband of Susan (Kohut) Saager.

Mr. Saager was born August 4, 1941 in Prussia, Germany, son of the late Paul and Elsa (Witt) Saager.

He was a retired barn manager who loved taking care of horses, especially Polo Ponies and Quarter Horses. Luke was also an accomplished tack maker who created custom handmade leather work.

In addition to his wife, Luke leaves 4 sisters, Karin Fahey (James) of Ocala, FL, Christa Valentino (Gary) of Las Vegas, NV, Patti Manchisi of West Haven, and Denise Williams (Louis) of Southbury, his sister in law, Janet Ingram of Grapevine, TX and several nieces and nephews.

Calling Hours will be from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. in the Ralph E. Hull Funeral Home, 161 West Church Street, Seymour. Services will be held at 6 p.m., following calling hours, in the funeral home. Interment will be private.

Memorial gifts may be sent to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, 222 S. Riverside Plaza, Suite 1500, Chicago, Illinois 60606.

For directions or to share a memory online please go to www.hullfh.com.

Marilyn Eye-Twigg

Marilyn Eye-Twigg, 49, of Seymour, entered into eternal rest unexpectedly on Friday, January 16, 2015 at Yale-New Haven Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Derby on November 22, 1965 and was a long time Shelton resident.

Marilyn was a kind and generous person who gave freely of herself to help anyone. She enjoyed nature, gardening, family and friends.

She will be dearly missed by all.

Her loving family includes her parents John and Irene Najda, her precious children Thomas A. Twigg, III and Tamra Ashley Twigg whom she loved beyond life itself, a brother Joseph Eye, a sister Deborah Steller and many other beloved friends and family.

Marilyn was predeceased by her father Vernard Eye.

The family would like to especially thank the team of doctors and nurses on Floor 7-1 and 6-2 for the loving care they provided for Marilyn.

Friends and relatives may call at the Miller-Ward Funeral Home, 260 Bank St (RT 67, across from Klarides Village) Seymour, on Wednesday, January 21, 2015 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm. Interment in the family plot at Mountain Meadows Cemetery, Seymour will be in the Spring.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the education costs of the children may be made through the funeral director.

To light a virtual candle or leave online condolences please visit www.millerwardfuneralhome.com.

Donald James Bierwirth

Born in Derby on November 22, 1943, he was the son of the late George and Elva Montgomery Bierwirth.

Mr. Bierwirth was raised in Shelton where he played varsity football and later moved to Seymour and graduated from Seymour High Seymour. A current resident of West Haven for 12 years, he formerly resided in Shelton for 14 years.

Mr. Bierwirth attended the University of Bridgeport, Sacred Heart University and graduated from Charter Oak College with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Criminal Justice. He was employed by the State of CT as a Judicial Marshall, serving in the New Haven Superior Court for many years until the time of his retirement.

Mr. Bierwirth was a member of NRA, Governor’s Footguard, loved riding his Harley Davidson, and enjoyed many cruises to the Caribbean with his wife.

In addition to his wife of 30 years, he is survived by his devoted son, Donald James Bierwirth, Jr. of New Haven; cherished granddaughter, Brianna Bierwirth of Southington; brothers, John Bierwirth of Hudson, FL, Guy Bierwirth of OK; sister, Elaine (Bob) Pronovost of New Haven; brother-in-laws, George (Helen) Butz of MA, Jerry Butz of Beacon Falls, Ronald (Martha) Butz of Trumbull and John (Robin) Butz of Stratford; his loyal german shepherd, Jasmine; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was predeceased by sister, Jacquie Bierwirth and brother-in-law, David Butz.

Funeral services are private. The Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia, is in care of arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.

Raymond P. “Ray Dee” D’Antuono

Raymond P. “Ray Dee” D’Antuono, 72, of Ansonia and New Port Richey, Fla., peacefully entered into eternal rest on Sunday morning January 18, 2015, at Trinity Medical Center in New Port Richey, FL. He was the beloved husband of Carol J. Schemmer D’Antuono.

Ray was born in Derby, CT on June 25, 1942, son of the late Ernest and Louise Gabriel D’Antuono.

He was employed as a counter service representative at FinishMaster for many years in Hartford, CT and later transferred to FinishMaster in Florida.

Ray was known for his love of music and was a member of the Debanares and later the Journeymen. He also loved Doo Wop and harmonizing. His church was very important to him and he enjoyed singing in its choir. He was an avid fan of the NY Yankees, NY Giants and UConn Basketball.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son, Raymond P. D’Antuono Jr. of El Cirrito, CA, a daughter, JoAnne Varanelli of Harwinton, two brothers, Dennis Franco of Hartford and Richard Franco of Naugatuck, a sister, Regina Pompano of East Haven, grandchildren, Tom, Joey, Christopher and Michael Varanelli, Quentin D’Antuono, his aunt, Josephine D’Antuono Santarsiere of Westbrook and several nieces, nephews and friends.

He was predeceased by his step-father, Frank L. Franco and a brother, Charles Franco.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday January 22, 2015, from 4-7 PM in the chapel of the SPINELLI-RICCIUTI/BEDNAR-OSIECKI FUNERAL HOME, 62 Beaver Street in Ansonia, CT. On Friday, his funeral will be held at 9:15 am from the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at Holy Rosary Church in Ansonia. Interment will take place in Mt. St. Peter Cemetery in Derby.

A memorial service will be held at a later date at Lighthouse Baptist Church in Holiday, FL.

To send an act of sympathy, please visit www.spinelliricciutifh.com.

Pauline Hilgerink

Pauline Hilgerink, age 90, of Seymour, the beloved wife of 29 years of the late Bernard Hilgerink, entered into rest peacefully on Sunday, January 18, 2015 at Vitas of St. Mary’s Hospital, Waterbury, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Bridgeport on May 9, 1924, daughter of the late Stephen and Catherine Kaplavka.

Pauline was a resident of the Norman Ray House of Seymour where she enjoyed planning parties, playing bingo and doing puzzles with the other residents.

She will be sadly missed by her family and many friends.

Pauline’s loving family includes her son Walter Guralski and his wife Donna of Woodbury, her daughter Renee Kmetz and her husband Robert of Beacon Falls, her brother John Kaplavka and his wife Jeanette of Milford, her four cherished grandchildren Amanda Hayes and her husband Brian, Aaron Guralski, Robert Kmetz, Jr. and his wife Melanie and David Kmetz, her cherished great grandchildren Sydney Kmetz and Colby Kmetz and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband Walter Guralski, her sister Helen Mandrona and her two brothers Mickey and Steve Kaplavka.

The family would like to thank the many people who cared for Pauline especially the staffs at Shady Knoll, Griffin Hospital and Xavier 4 of Vitas Health Care. Your love and care are greatly appreciated.

Interment, with a Graveside Service in Memory of Pauline will be held at the family plot on Thursday, January 22, 2015 at 12 noon at St. John’s Baptist Cemetery, 2610 Nichols Ave, Stratford. There will be no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Pauline may be made to Vitas at St. Mary’s Hospital, Xavier 4, 56 Franklin Street, Waterbury, CT 06706.

To light a virtual candle or leave on-line condolences please visit www.millerwardfuneralhome.com.

Frank Fedir Stuban

Frank Fedir Stuban, 92 , of Seymour, died peacefully, after receiving the Sacrament of Last Rites at the home of his daughter Susan in Trumbull. He was surrounded by his family.

Mr. Stuban was born in the village of Berezok, Bojko Region, Ukraine, on December 20, 1922. He was the son of the late Maksym and Maria (Pikulickyj) Stuban. He was the beloved husband of Helene Bruchmann Stuban for 57 years.

Besides his wife, he is survived by his three children, son LtCol (Dr.) Steven Stuban U.S. Army (Ret) of Fairfax, VA; daughter and son-in-law, Attorneys Susan and Thomas Monks of Trumbull; and daughter and son-in-law Attorneys Lydia and Chris Antoniou of Potomac, MD. Mr. Stuban has seven grandchildren, LTJG Lydia Monks USCG of Key West, FL; Paul, Bridget, Patrick and Peter Monks of Trumbull and Christine and Suzanne Antoniou of Potomac. He is also survived by close relatives in Berwick and Ambridge, PA, Australia and Ukraine and a sister in law Christa Baraniak of Rochester, NY.

He was predeceased by his two brothers, Stefan Bachur and Nicholas Stuban, his grandson Nicholas Stuban and his daughter in law, LtCol Sandra Lesher Stuban, U.S.A. Army and his American mentor/cousin Ted Stuban.

In 1939, at the age of 17, Stuban was on a train to a seminary in Poland to study for the priesthood. Enroute, the train was halted by the German SS and he was forced on a cattle train to Germany where he worked in forced labor camps for the duration of WWII. He often spoke of his liberation by the US Army and was determined to find a new home in the United States. After the war, he worked in Germany, Holland, France and England.

He settled in Nottingham, England working in a lace factory. While in England, Frank and his Ukrainian Dance Troupe performed for the Royal Family, and he personally danced with Princess Margaret. His dream eventually came true when his uncle, John Stuban and cousin Evelyn of Berwick, sponsored him to come to the United States in 1954.

He arrived in the U.S. aboard the SS United States and was greeted by his cousins Ted and Vee Stuban. He then found employment in NYC and lived in the lower east side Ukrainian community where he married. He was a member of the Ukranian Dumka Choir.

After visiting fellow camp buddies in Seymour, he fell in love with the beautiful landscape of the valley region and Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Ansonia. He then cleared a lot and built his own house in Seymour and moved his family there in 1960. He was employed as a laborer for 28 years by the Nichols Engineering Corp in Shelton, retiring in 1983.

Frank was an active volunteer, spending countless hours in religious and community organizations. His most notable accomplishment is to have taught thousands of students in Ukrainian folk dancing, singing, language and culture. He was very proud of his Ukrainian heritage and was eager to share his knowledge, especially in the art of decorating Ukrainian Easter eggs, “pysanky.”

He was chairman of performing arts for the 125th Anniversary of Seymour and the 200th Anniversary of our Nation celebrations. He was a member and board of director of the Valley Arts Council. He was a member and officer of the Seymour Historical Society and Valley Transit Commission. He was elected to serve on Seymour’s Library board as a director and treasurer. He was a member of Seymour’s Democratic Town Committee for 20 years and elected to the Seymour Board of Selectmen. He was twice a candidate for Connecticut State Representative from the 125th Legislative District. He was commissioner and chairman of Seymour’s Economic Development Commission for 10 years. He was an executive board member for the Valley’s Special Olympics.

Frank, a fourth degree Knight of Columbus, was recently honored with the Venerable Father Michael McGiveny Service Award. He was treasurer of the American Russian Club in Shelton for many years. He was secretary and treasurer of the Ukrainian National Association Branch 67 since 1988. He was a devoted parishioner of Sts. Peter and Paul Church Ansonia since 1959 and member of the Holy Name Society. The Church hosted a banquet in his honor for his service to the church in May of 2013. Stuban was proud of his children’s military service and education accomplishments. He gardened up until his 91st year and enjoyed sharing the bounty of his labor. He also was an avid contributor to several local newspapers with news articles and pictures. Special thank you to Thomas and Susan Monks and his grandchildren for caring for Frank in their home, and also thank you to special neighbors the Wilhelm’s, Di Giovannis’, Dlugokenski’s, and Herman Szalek.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Holy Name Society of Sts. Peter and Paul Church. Funeral services will take place on Monday, January 26, 2015 at 9:00 AM from the Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 10:00 AM in Sts. Peter and Paul Church, 105 Clifton Ave., Ansonia. Springtime interment will take place in Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Derby. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Sunday, January 25, 2015, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM; Panakhida at 6:30PM.

Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.

Jeanette (Rega) Clark, age 79, of Huntington, CT, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Friday January 23, 2015.

Born in Bridgeport, CT on May 24, 1935, Jeanette was the daughter of the late Frank and Jennie Esposito Rega.

Jan is survived by her beloved husband of 59 years, Bernard Clark of Huntington, CT and formerly of Bridgeport, CT. She is also survived by her loving children, son, Michael B. Clark of Huntington, daughter, Phyllis Pinto and husband Robert of Beacon Falls, and daughter, Eileen Nelson and husband Eric of Seymour.

In addition, she leaves behind her grandchildren, Melissa Randi and husband Craig of Stratford, Lauren Veronneau and husband Patrick of Wallingford, Robert Pinto of Beacon Falls, and Taylor Nelson of Seymour.

Jan was predeceased by her brothers, Paul and Frank Rega.

Jeanette attended Sacred Heart University, in addition to graduating from Central High School in Bridgeport. She was employed for many years by The Bridgeport Brass Company and was later employed by Pullman and Comley for 25 years before retiring.

Jan was an avid card player, a championship bowler and most importantly, a professional shopper. She was a kind hearted, generous woman who was, and will continue to be loved by many. She lived a wonderful life surrounded by family, love and laughter.

The family would like to express their deepest appreciation and gratitude to the doctors and nurses at Gaylord Hospital Pulmonary unit in addition to Bridgeport Hospital’s 9th floor and ICA unit. We would also like to thank Dr. Mridu Gulati for all of her love and compassion.

Funeral services will take place on Friday, January 30, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. from the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Road, Trumbull and at 10:00 a.m. in St. Lawrence Church, 505 Shelton Rd., Shelton, for a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Trumbull. Friends may greet the family on Thursday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

For more information or to leave an online condolence, visit us at www.abriola.com.

Helen (Kunzik) Murzak

Helen (Kunzik) Murzak, 91, peacefully entered into eternal rest on January 25, 2015, at Shady Knoll Health Care in Seymour. She was the beloved wife of Harold Murzak.

Mrs. Murzak was born in Shelton on June 23, 1923, daughter of the late Harold and Effie Gabriel Kunzik.

A resident of Ansonia for over 60 years, she was employed as an inspector at Uniroyal in Naugatuck until her retirement. Helen loved spending time and vacationing at the beach and enjoyed cooking and fishing.

In addition to her husband Harold, she is survived by a son, David Murzak (Gloria) of North Haven, two daughters, Sondra Angelucci of Oxford and Barbara Baranek of East Haven, cherished grandchildren, Robert and Todd Angelucci, Alfred Baranek, and Christopher, Michele and Lisa Murzak, 8 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by a son in law, Alfred Baranek Jr., brothers, Peter, Joseph and Michael Kunzik and a sister, Mary Maler.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday January 29, 2015, from 4-7 pm in the chapel of the SPINELLI-RICCIUTI/BEDNAR-OSIECKI FUNERAL HOME, 62 Beaver Street in Ansonia. On Friday, her funeral will be held at 10:15 am from the funeral home, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am at Three Saints Orthodox Church, 26 Howard Avenue, Ansonia. Interment will take place in Pine Grove Cemetery in Ansonia.

To send an act of sympathy, please visit www.spinelliricciutifh.com.

Olga Zachariewicz, age 95, of Cheshire, beloved wife of the late William T. Zachariewicz, died peacefully in her home surrounded by her family on January 23, 2015.

Born in Derby on December 31, 1919, she was the daughter of the late Elias and Anna Magera Martiska.

Mrs. Zachariewicz was a home maker and lifelong member of Sts. Peter & Paul Church where she was active in many functions and activities. Mrs. Zachariewicz did extensive volunteer work with the elderly at a local convalescent home and rehabilitation center.

She will be long remembered for her love and caring concern for others; her willingness to sacrifice for others, always fulfilling the needs of others before her own.

She is survived by her devoted children, David (Deborah) Zachariewicz of Southbury, John (Wendy) Zachariewicz of Meriden, Catherine Zachariewicz of Cheshire, and Wilhelmina (Joseph) DeSandre of Niantic; a sister, Josephine Cyrul of Seymour; cherished grandchildren, Sean Zachariewicz of Meriden, Collin Zachariewicz of Southbury, Billy (Christina) DeSandre of Salem, CT, and Melissa DeSandre of East Lyme; cherished great-grandchildren, Brighton DeSandre of Salem, CT and Nora-DeSandre-Blette of East Lyme; as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband of 62 years, Mrs. Zachariewicz was predeceased by a sister, Stephanie Koncevich and brother, John Martiska.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated on Thursday, January 29, 2015, at 11:00 AM in Sts. Peter and Paul Church, 105 Clifton Ave., Ansonia. Springtime interment will be in Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Derby. Family and friends may call from 9:00 to 10:45AM, prior to Mass, at the Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Ave., Ansonia.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sts. Peter and Paul Preservation Fund or, Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care, 267 Finch Avenue, Meriden, CT 06451.

Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.

Grace H. Farmer, 99, of Seymour, passed away January 24, 2015 at Griffin Hospital.

Born Grace Coralinn Hibbard on July 27, 1915 in Oxford, she was the daughter of the late Edwin I. Hibbard and Margaret Laird Hibbard.

She was predeceased by her husband, Richard E. Farmer, and her siblings Dorothy, Isobel, Arthur, Irvin, and Floyd.

Grace is survived by her brother, Leroy Hibbard of Seymour, her two sons Robert of Seymour, and William and wife Rebecca, of Napa, CA, as well as a host of nieces and nephews with special affection to Priscilla Altorelli of Seymour.

A graduate of Oxford and Seymour schools, she also graduated from the Ansonia Business College, and worked as a secretary for several area firms including Grunthal and Mullite Refractory, finishing her career as the office manager of Weiss Securities in New Haven.

Grace was active in amateur theatricals in the Valley, and performed in the Precision Drill Team at the 1939 New York World’s Fair. She enjoyed Broadway Musicals, travel, (having visited Spain, France, Austria, Great Britain, & Ireland), knitting, reading, (mysteries especially), and crossword puzzles. Grace was a Den Mother with the Cub Scouts and an active member of the Seymour Congregational Church.

A Memorial Service will be held Monday, January 26, 2015 at 3:00 pm at the Miller-Ward Funeral Home, 260 Bank Street, Seymour.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

To light a virtual candle and leave online condolences please visit www.millerwardfuneralhome.com.

Patricia Parker Magut, age 80, of Milford and formerly of Trumbull, beloved wife of the late Michael A. Magut, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 22, 2015 with her loving family by her side.

Born in Bridgeport on February 16, 1934, she was a daughter of the late John and Marie Munson Parker.

Patricia was a retired financial aid adviser for the Sikorsky Federal Credit Union. She was a volunteer at the Milford Senior Center and a member of the Wordsmith Writers Group.

An avid sports fan, Pat was a New York Giant fan and a UCONN Huskies fan and was also very involved in Trumbull Pop Warner. But above all she was a dedicated mother, grandmother and great grandmother who was dedicated to the care and love of her family. She will be truly missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include three loving children, Michael John Magut and his wife Gail of Seymour, Jeffrey P. Magut and his wife Jennifer of Trumbull and Judy Brown of Milford, six cherished grandchildren, Christopher John, Catherine Gail, Catherine Parker, Michael Edward, Krista Nicole, and Damien, 2 great grandchildren, a brother, John (Jerry) Parker of Orange, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will take place on Wednesday, January 28, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. in the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Road, Trumbull, and at 10:00 a.m. in St. Stephen’s Church Trumbull, for a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will follow in the St. John’s Cemetery, Monroe. Relatives and friends may greet the family Tuesday from 4-8 p.m.

For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.abriola.com.

William A. St. Jacques Sr.

William A. St. Jacques Sr., 68, entered into eternal rest on Jan. 22, 2015, at Milford Health Care.

Mr. St. Jacques was born in New Haven on Aug. 21, 1946, son of the late Robert and Lorraine Cartier St. Jacques Sr.

He was employed as a tool & die maker at Nutmeg Precision Co in Bridgeport. Bill was a member of the Milford Shoreliners Drum & Bugle Corp.

He is survived by a son, William A. St. Jacques Jr. of Wallingford, a daughter, Kelly Levatino (Steve) of E. Haven, a brother, Robert G. St. Jacques Jr. (Dorothy) of Derby, grandchildren, Nicholas St. Jacques, Steven and Tara Levatino, great-grandson, Mario Ventura, former wife, Ann St. Jacques of Wallingford and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visiting hours will be held on Monday Jan. 26, 2015, from 4-7 PM at the SPINELLI-RICCIUTI/BEDNAR-OSIECKI FUNERAL HOME, 62 Beaver Street in Ansonia. At 7:00 PM, a funeral service in celebration of Bill’s life will take place. Burial will be private in Beaverdale Cemetery in Hamden.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Milford Health Care Recreation Fund, 195 Platt St. Milford, CT 06460 or through the funeral home.

To send an act of sympathy, please visit www.spinelliricciutifh.com.

Anna Charron Briere

Anna Charron Briere, age 100, of Seymour, formerly of Far Haven, Vermont, the beloved wife to the late William V. Briere, Sr. entered into eternal rest on Thursday, January 22, 2015 at Beacon Brook Health Care Center, Beacon Falls, Connecticut.

She was born in Orwell, VT on June 28, 1914 the beloved daughter of the late Charles and Alexina (Genier) Charron.

Anna resided in Shelton until 1969 at which time they moved to Seymour. She was a devout communicant of the Church of the Good Shepherd and was a member of the church’s Ladies Society. She was an employee of Shelton Products for 14 years until her retirement in 1970.

Anna was a member of the Seymour Senior Center. She enjoyed sewing , crocheting and was also an avid homemaker.

Anna loved her family and friends and especially looked forward to the annual family reunion. She will be sadly missed by all and will remain forever in our hearts.

Her loving family includes three caring daughters Louise Daly of Waterbury, Alice Kelemen of Lady Lake, FL and Patricia Graziano of Castleton, VT., seventeen loving grandchildren, twenty seven cherished great-grandchildren , eleven great- great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Anna was predeceased by her two beloved sons William J. Briere and Norman V. Briere, eight brothers and three sisters.

A Funeral Service in Celebration of Anna’s life will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2015 at 10:00 am in the Chapel of the Miller-Ward Funeral Home, 260 Bank St. (opposite Klarides Village, Rt. 67) Seymour with a Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 am at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 135 Mountain Rd. Seymour. Interment in the family plot will follow at Mountain Meadows Cemetery, Seymour. Friends and relatives may call at the funeral home on Wednesday night from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm.

Memorial gifts may be made in Anna’s memory to The American Heart Association or The American Cancer Society through the funeral home.

To light a virtual candle and leave online condolences please visit www.millerwardfuneralhome.com

Joseph D. Miko, age 85, of Stratford, beloved husband of Dorothy Kuba Miko, passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2015 in his home.

Joe, U.S. Navy Veteran of the Korean War was born in Stratford to the late Matthew and Anna (Alias) Miko and has been a lifelong area resident.

He was a graduate of Fairfield University, where he was a member of the Cross Country, Track, and Basketball teams, scoring the first basket in school history, and was inducted into the University’s Athletic Hall of Fame. Joe was a retired VP and Trust Officer for Connecticut National Bank.

He was an avid golfer, enjoyed a good cigar, and always had a good story. He also enjoyed doing brickwork, and never saw a brick he didn’t like, but most of all, he will be remembered as a wonderful husband, father and grandfather.

Survivors in addition to his beloved wife, include his devoted children, Thomas Miko (Cathy), Larry Miko (Pamela) all of Stratford, Dan Miko (Cheryl) of Seymour, and Dr. Susan Miko (Larry Columbus) of Las Vegas, NV, 8 cherished grandchildren, Alex, Rebecca, Emily, Joseph, Samuel, Zachary, Jacob, and Casey, 2 great-grandchildren, Lily and Abigail, sisters-in-law, Gail Miko and Rita Miko and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Matthew, John, and Dan Miko and sister, Mary Tesla. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, February 2nd at 10 a.m. in St. Mark Church 500 Wigwam Lane Stratford, with military honors immediately following. Interment will be private. Friends may greet Joe’s family on Saturday from 2-5 p.m. in the Adzima Funeral Home 50 Paradise Green Place Stratford.

In lieu of flowers those desiring may make donations to the Alzheimer’s Association 2075 Silas Deane Highway Suite 100 Rocky Hill, CT 06067.

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

Peter Lypen

Peter Lypen, age 83, beloved husband of Luba Kasprzyk Lypen of Derby, died peacefully on Tuesday, January 27, 2015, at the Bridgeport Manor Health Care Center.

Born in Poland on October 3, 1931, he was the son of the late Andrew and Maria Spiak Lypen. Mr. Lypen worked as a Machine Operator with the former Lord Corp. of Shelton for 28 years, then worked for the Gordon Rubber Co. of Derby, retiring in 1996.

Mr. Lypen was a veteran of the Polish Army, immigrated to the U.S. in 1965 and resided in Derby most of his life. He was a devout member of Sts. Peter & Paul Church, Ansonia, a member of the Russian Citizens Club of Shelton and the Derby Senior Center.

In addition to his wife of 48 years, he is survived by his devoted children, Andrew S. (Beata) Lypen of Orange and Mary E. (Adam) Faass of North Haven; a cherished granddaughter, Maja Lypen of Orange; a sister, Melania Lyen of Ansonia; a brother, Jacob (Barbara) Lypen of Ansonia; a niece, Maria (Michael) Telep of Ansonia; newphews, Michael Pawlyk of Ansonia and Stephen Durkot of CA; and a brother-in-law, Michael Pawlyk, Sr. of Ansonia.

Mr. Lypen was predeceased by sisters, Marta Durkot, Helena Pawlyk and Anna Lypen.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated on Saturday, January 31, 2015, at 11:00 AM in Sts. Peter and Paul Church, 105 Clifton Ave., Ansonia. Springtime interment will be in Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Derby. Family and friends may call from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM, prior to Mass, at the Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Ave., Ansonia.

Masses or memorial contributions may be made to Sts. Peter and Paul Church.

Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.

Donna Wandel

Donna Wandel, 65, of Derby, entered into eternal rest on January 26, 2015, at Griffin Hospital. She was the beloved wife of Jeffrey P. Wandel.

Donna was born in Westbury, NY on June 25, 1949, daughter of Melvin Weinberg of FL and the late Mary O’Connor Freid.

A resident of Derby for many years, she was a self-employed graphic designer. Donna’s family was most important to her and she enjoyed painting, camping and trips to the casino.

In addition to her husband Jeff, she is survived by two loving sons, Shawn J. Wandel (Joanna) of Roslyn, NY and Timothy E. Wandel (Chiara) of Seymour, brothers, J.R. Weinberg of FL and Richard Weinberg of Naugatuck, a sister, Debra Hughes of Shelton, cherished grandchildren, Danielle Wandel, Victoria Omeara, Max Wandel, Mackenzie Wandel and several nieces, nephews and friends.

A memorial gathering will be held on Monday February 2, 2015, from 5-7 pm in the chapel of the SPINELLI-RICCIUTI/BEDNAR-OSIECKI FUNERAL HOME, 62 Beaver Street in Ansonia. At 7:00 pm, a funeral service in celebration of Donna’s life will take place. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to CT Hospice, 100 Double Beach Road, Branford, CT 06405 or through the funeral home.

To send an act of sympathy, please visit www.spinelliricciutifh.com.

David Andrew Shay

David Andrew Shay, 51, of Beacon Falls, CT died peacefully in his sleep at Griffin Hospital, Derby on January 25, 2015.

Dave was born in Summit, NJ and grew up in Darien, CT.

He graduated from The Marvelwood School in Kent, CT before attending college at The University of Hartford. An accident on a ski slope left him a paraplegic at 17, but he never let that stop him. He was a career IT professional specializing in programming. His 25 year career included positions at Met-Life and Sikorski Aircraft.

A fun loving, generous and gregarious friend and family member; he was an avid fan of the UCONN Huskies women’s basketball team. He loved gardening and lived independently in a home that he designed. He had a passion for green energy and recently installed solar panels on his home.

Dave is survived by his brother, Robert Shay of Chicago IL, two sisters, Cindy (Shay) Molgano and her husband, Frank of Burlington, CT and Pam (Shay) Clark and her husband, Matthew of Baltimore, MD; as well as 10 nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents Allan and Marjorie (Eckhart) Shay.

A Memorial Service in celebration of Dave’s life will be held on February 28, 2015 at 11:00am in the Beacon Falls Congregational Church, 69 Wolfe Avenue, Beacon Falls, CT. The Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia is in care of arrangements.

Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.

Martin “Marty” Hudobenko

Martin “Marty” Hudobenko, an 85 year old Ansonia resident and husband to Joan Mirisola Hudobenko, reposed to the Lord with his family by his side at home on Jan. 31.

He was born April 24, 1929 in Waterbury, CT., son of the late Wasil and Anastasia Preslopsky Hudobenko.

Marty was a Veteran of the Korean War and a member of St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church in Stratford. He was owner & proprietor of B & M Variety Store in Ansonia.

In addition to his wife Joan, he leaves his daughter Diane Hudobenko of Richmond, Virginia, 2 step daughters Heidi Sojka & husband Robert of Trumbull and Michele Saad & husband Greg of Oxford, and seven grandchildren.

He was predeceased by six brothers, Leon, Sasha, Antip, Walter, Steve & Nicholas and three sisters, Hope Moneta, Olga Peck & Mary Eurist.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. from The Jenkins King & Malerba Funeral Home, 12 Franklin St. Ansonia CT. (www.jenkinskingfh.com/) Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. before the service. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery.

Donations in his memory may be made to St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church in Stratford through the funeral home.