Paul J. Meiselman, 88, of Farmington, beloved husband of Ruth A. (Zlatnicky) Meiselman of 65 years, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family Sunday, November 10, 2013. Born in Unionville in 1925 to the late Julius and Elizabeth (McEnroe) Meiselman, he graduated high school in 1943 and immediately enlisted in the Marine Corps where he served his country during WWII as a Marine Aviation Machinist in the pacific islands. Paul returned home in 1945 and enrolled in the Aeronautical University of Chicago where he studied aeronautical engineering. He met Ruth at the Trianon Ballroom in Chicago, IL and 9 months later they were married and settled in Farmington. Paul worked for 32 years as a helicopter project flight test engineer for Kaman Aircraft Corporation. Paul was a lifetime member of the VFW, a member of the American Legion and a charter member of the national WWII Memorial. He was a lifetime member of the Wethersfield Cove Yacht Club and a lifetime communicant at the Church of St. Mary Star of the Sea in Unionville. Paul loved the ocean and built two seaworthy boats and cruised the waters of Long Island Sound with Ruth for years. He was most happy when he was designing, building and fixing things. Besides his wife Ruth, he leaves behind his family to cherish his memory, his daughter Nancy (Meiselman) Gregoire and her husband John, his daughter-in-law, Norma Meiselman, his son-in-law, William Jensen, his grandchildren, Lisa (Jensen) Bunkoci and her husband Bill, Matthew Jensen, Erin Jensen, Katie (Jensen) Barsi and her husband George, Christopher Gregoire, Benjamin Gregoire and his wife Ashley, his great grandchildren; William Bunkoci, Aimee Bunkoci, and Elizabeth Barsi and his sister-in-law, Jean Meiselman and her children. Paul was predeceased by his son, Paul J. Meiselman Jr., his daughter, Elizabeth A. (Meiselman) Jensen and his brother, William Meiselman. Friends may call at The Ahern Funeral Home, 111 Main St., Rt. 4, Unionville on Thursday (Nov. 14) from 5:00-7:00pm. Funeral procession from The Ahern Funeral Home will be Friday (Nov. 15) at 9:15am followed by the Funeral Liturgy in the Church of St. Mary Star of the Sea, Unionville at 10:00am. Burial with full Marine Corps honors will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Avon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 825 Brook St., I-91 Tech Center, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
Meiselman, Paul J.
King, Elisabeth Wadsworth
Elisabeth Wadsworth King, 64, of Harwinton, passed away Monday, November 4, 2013 at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center following a brief illness. At her side was her husband of 31 years, Austin, her children and family. She was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend who will be dearly missed. Beth was born as the second oldest of six on August 18, 1949 at Hartford Hospital to Jeremiah and Lois Wadsworth. She was raised in Farmington, CT and graduated from Farmington High School in 1968. Beth had a lifetime career as an artist and created beauty everywhere in the world around her. She began as a weaver in the 70’s and 80’s exhibiting tapestries in juried fiber shows. After receiving her BFA from the University of Hartford Art School in 1989 she began her 20 year career as a commercial and freelance graphic designer. In 1997 she received her MA from Wesleyan University, beginning her printmaking work and studied with well known printmakers throughout New England and Florence, Italy. She exhibited her work regionally and her work is in many private collections. Beth loved to travel and most recently she and Austin celebrated 30 years of marriage with a trip to England. She had a love of books, reading several at one time, and her collections are extensive, filling bookshelves all over her home. Beth was very active and walked and ran daily, enjoyed hikes, yoga and especially skating. She and Austin shared their love of skating and she will be missed by her skating community in West Hartford and Hanover, N.H. Beth enjoyed knitting with her weekly knitting group, rug hooking, gardening and spending time with family and friends at their house in Sharon, Vermont. She was a wonderful mother and grandmother who dedicated much of her time and love to her grandsons. Beth was an inspiration, following her passions and excelling at everything she did. She will live on in our hearts and memories as the energetic, dynamic woman who was so full of life. She leaves behind her husband, Austin D. B. King of Harwinton, CT; her daughter, Stephanie Brennan and her husband Steve of Farmington and her three grandchildren, Patrick, Dylan and Timothy; her son, Martin Romanow and his fiancée, Prakaithip D. Chanthavone, of E. Granby, CT. She is survived by her parents, Jeremiah and Lois Wadsworth of Farmington, CT; her sisters and brothers and their spouses, Adrian and Jennifer Wadsworth of N.Turner, Maine; John Wadsworth and Cathy Loiacono of Bloomfield, NY; Cecilia and Jack Mulroy of Salt Lake City, UT; Cynthia and Mark Lorenzoni of Charlottesville, VA; James and Adina Wadsworth of Washington D.C. and many nieces and nephews, cousins, relatives and friends who loved her. Calling hours will be from 4-8pm on Tuesday, November 19 at The Ahern Funeral Home, 111 Main St., Rt. 4, Unionville, CT. A service to honor her life will be on Wednesday, November 20, at 11am at the First Church of Christ, Congregational, 75 Main Street, Farmington, CT. A reception will follow at the Farmington Country Club on 806 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT. Friends and family are urged to carpool to the church. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the charity of your choice. A way to honor Beth is to take a walk, go to an art gallery, read a book, go skating or have a cup of tea with a friend.
Pfau, William C.
William Clifford Pfau, of Farmington, died suddenly at his home on Saturday, November 9, 2013, after suffering the complications of a terminal illness. Born on September 15, 1952, in Hartford, Connecticut, he spent his childhood years in Unionville. Mr Pfau (best known as Bill) is predeceased by his father, Harry C. Pfau and a sister, Patricia Pfau Welch. He leaves his mother, Barbara Erickson Pfau of Farmington, a brother, Harold Pfau of Fort Myers, Florida, a sister, Elaine Pfau Harvey, of Frederick, Maryland, many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and many friends. Bill graduated from Farmington High School in 1971. He was one of the twelve original members of the founders of The Unionville Museum at 15 School Street, Unionville. The first event of the museum, The Founder’s meeting, was held on March 26, 1984. The program featured a documentary film, “Unionville,” by Bill Pfau. Since that time Bill has worked tirelessly in providing service to the continuation of The Unionville Museum. A graveside ceremony will be held at Riverside Cemetery, Farmington, on Thursday, November 14, at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Unionville Museum.
Blau, Helen C.
Helen C. Blau, 81, of Avon, widow of Barry Blau, passed away peacefully Tuesday, November 12, 2013. Born in Manhattan, New York, November 28th, 1931, she was the daughter of the late Genarro and Cleofa (Fabriani) Libonati. Helen had resided in Staten Island, New York for 46 years prior to moving to Avon in 2008. Prior to retiring, she was a Secretary for American Express and also in the Shipping Industry. While living in Staten Island, Helen was an active volunteer in the school system and was a member of the “Grub Club”. She loved people, sharing stories with them and greatly enjoyed her retirement. Helen is survived by her son, Daniel Blau of Farmington and was predeceased by her daughter, Deborah Blau. Friends may call at The Ahern Funeral Home, 111 Main St., Rt. 4, Unionville on Friday (Nov. 15) from 5:30 – 8:30pm. A Prayer Service will be held in the funeral home at 8:00pm. Funeral services and burial will be held in Staten Island, New York. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Daughters of Divine Charity, 850 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, N.Y. 10304 or to Alzheimer’s Association, Connecticut Chapter, PO Box 96011
Washington, DC 20090-6011.
Griffin, Joyce Valenti
Joyce Valenti Griffin, 70, of Unionville, beloved wife of Howard W. Griffin Jr., passed away peacefully Sunday, November 17th at Apple Rehab in Avon. Born in New Britain, July 28th, 1943, she was the daughter of the late George and Ann (Casella) Valenti. Prior to retiring, Joyce was the Executive Legal Assistant to the General Counsel at Stanley Works in New Britain for 42 years. Following her retirement, she enjoyed the Mohegan Sun High Roller Lounge. Joyce was very generous and contributed to many organizations, most especially to the Farmington Food Pantry and also donated land to the Farmington Land Trust. Besides her husband of 35 years, she survived by her brother and his wife, Anthony and Anna Valenti of New Britain, her nephew and his wife, Anthony and Sherry Valenti of Newington, two nieces and their husbands, Donna and Joseph Ortelle of Cheshire and Deborah and James Lynch of Newington, six great nephews, several cousins, her brother-in-law, Peter J. Griffin of Farmington and her sister-in-law, Margery G. Griffin of Farmington. The Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated Thursday (Nov. 21) at 10:00am in the Church of St. Patrick, 110 Main St., Farmington followed by burial in Greenwood Cemetery, Avon.
Crowe, Dorothy Mae
Dorothy Mae (Dunham) Crowe, 94, of Unionville peacefully entered into eternal life on November 15, 2013 surrounded by her loving family. Born January 28, 1919 in Hartford, CT to George McKinley Dunham and Bertha (Ensminger) Dunham, she graduated from Hudson High School, NY and graduated in 1940 from the New Britain General Hospital School of Nursing as a Registered Nurse. She was lovingly known as the “Sergeant” by all of her students in the LPN program. She was the beloved wife of Thomas Higgins Crowe who she met through her Uncle Arthur who told him his niece wanted someone to go dancing with and they had been dancing ever since. They married on January 23, 1943 at St. Mary’s Church, Unionville and lived in Broad Brook, CT after Thomas completed his service duty, built their house in Unionville and began their family of five. She is predeceased by her beloved husband, Thomas, son, Michael and daughter-in-law, Sandra Crowe. She leaves behind her brother, Raymond G. Dunham (Jeanette Stewart) of Lakeland, FL and cousin, Beverly Amberlock (Farmington) and her devoted children, Dottie Graves (West Hartford), Thomas (Southington), Richard (Kensington), and Tim (Donna, Burlington). She also leaves behind the joys of her life, her eight grandchildren: Kristin (Vince) Gilbey (Avon); Kevin (Christie) Graves of Pittsburgh, PA; Kelly (Luke) Albrecht of Newtown; Michelle (Brendan) Bartley of Milton, MA; Jennifer (Colin) McLaughlin (West River, MD); Michael Crowe (Boston, MA); Nicolette Crowe (Burlington) and Tyler Crowe (Winsted) and ten great grandchildren: Megan Elizabeth and Braden Michael Gilbey; Asher Betten Graves; Rachael Mae, Kyle Thomas and Corinne Elizabeth Albrecht; Zander Michael and Bode Crowe Bartley; Teaghan Sandra McLaughlin; Sawyer Daniel Chartier. She was an avid knitter and reader and followed the UConn basketball teams. The family would like to thank Dr. Richard Edwards, Dr. Charles Graber and Dr. Satesh Singh for their care, and the devoted and compassionate caregivers at The Reservoir in West Hartford. Family and friends are invited to celebrate the life of our Mom/Grandma/ Great-Grandma on Monday, November 25, 2013. Calling hours at Ahern Funeral Home, Main Street, Unionville are 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM followed by a funeral mass at 11:00 AM at St. Mary’s Star of the Sea Church and burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made to the Sandy “Ma” Crowe Scholarship C/O Berlin Upbeat, Berlin High School, 130 Patterson Way, Berlin, CT 06037.
Trudell, Alice B.
Alice B. Trudell, 89, of Farmington, wife of the late Charles E. Trudell, passed away peacefully Sunday, November 17th at her home. Born in New York City on October 28th, 1924, she was the daughter of Robert W. and Alice (Travers) Bannon. Alice was, for many years, a member of the Ladies Guild at the Church of St. Patrick in Farmington and served as past president. She was involved with numerous fund raising organizations, enjoyed and supported the arts, loved to travel with family and good friends and kept an active social life.
Alice was predeceased by her daughter, Alicia Trudell, her son, Charles E. Trudell Jr., and her sister, Josephine, wife of the late Francis Trudell. She is survived by three daughters, Elizabeth and Ted Ciesielski of New Berlin, NY, Josephine Trudell of Harwinton and Dr. Trish Cosentino of Farmington; seven granddaughters, Alison and Bill Olin, Thea and Frank Steventon, Hilary and Olivia Ciesielski, Natasha Trudell and Zoe and Maya Cosentino and three great grandchildren, Alyse and Amelia Steventon and Ben Olin. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, Nov. 25 at 11:00 am at the Church of St. Patrick, 110 Main St., Farmington.
Genzano, Michael J. III
Michael J. Genzano III, 63, of Suffield, beloved husband of Susan (Lamantini) Genzano, won his right into heaven on Wednesday, November 20th at home surrounded by his family. Mike was born in Hartford on April 29, 1950, son of the late Michael J. and Irene (Evans) Genzano II. He was a graduate of Windsor High School, Class of 1969. Mike was a United States Army- Specialists 4 veteran of the Vietnam War. He was a certified Auto Mechanic, licensed Electrician and Security System Technician. Mike loved NASCAR, Monster Jam, NHRA, funny cars, anything hot rod related, car shows, beach, cruising, lighthouses, vacationing with his wife at Samoset in Maine and going out to eat, especially to his favorite place, River’s Edge. Mike also loved working on cars at home, movie nights and camp fires in the back yard and sitting by the fireplace watching movies with all the children. Besides his wife, he is survived by his many children, Michael John Genzano IV, Christie Elizabeth Genzano, Deanna Lamantini, Timothy Lamantini, Kathleen Lamantini, one grandson, many nieces and nephews, his siblings Bradford Genzano, Robert Genzano and Karen (Genzano) Rankin and many friends. Funeral services will be held Tuesday (Nov. 26) at 2:00pm in The Ahern Funeral Home, 111 Main St., Rt. 4, Unionville with Rev. Wendell Taylor officiating. Donations may be made to Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven, Closer to Free Fund, P.O. Box 7611, New Haven, CT 06519-0611.
Witkewicz, Edward S.
Edward S. Witkewicz, of Bristol, beloved husband for 50 + years of the late Rosemarie Witkewicz passed away unexpectedly and peacefully in his home early on Sunday Nov. 24th. A Navy veteran of the Korean War and active member of the Knights of Columbus, Ed belonged to the Church of St. Mary Star of the Sea in Unionville. He was a devout and active Catholic and proud member of the Polish community. He taught CCD class and was Eucharistic minister and Past Grand Knight of Uncas Council #32 in Unionville. A charming, thoughtful, charismatic man, Ed loved the Bristol community. He liked people and was fond of everyone he met. He loved fishing, boating, outdoors, and wood working. Retired life from being a model maker at the General Electric Company in Plainville, picture framer and Owner of Tuttles Paint store, Ed led an active life. He is survived by his two sons Thomas Witkewicz of Harwinton, and David Witkewicz of NYC along with 2 grandchildren Adam & Rachael and his daughter-in-law, Shelia Witkewicz. Friends may call at The Ahern Funeral Home, 111 Main St., Rt. 4, Unionville on Friday (Nov. 29) from 4:00-7:00pm. Funeral procession from The Ahern Funeral Home will be Saturday (Nov. 30) at 9:15am followed by the Funeral Liturgy in the Church of St. Mary Star of the Sea, Unionville at 10:00am. Burial with full military honors will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Bristol. Memorial contributions may be made to the Church of St. Mary Star of the Sea, the St. Joseph Statue Fund, Bidwell Square, Unionville, CT 06085.
Harris, Deborah Ann (Duncan)
Deborah Ann (Duncan) Harris, age 64, of Middletown, passed away on Tuesday, November 26, 2013 after a long illness. She was predeceased by her parents, Barbara S. and Robert M. Duncan. Debbie was born on September 26, 1949. She grew up in Unionville and Farmington and was a graduate of Farmington High School, Class of 1967. She attended Greater Hartford Community College and Paier School of Art, where she met her husband, Gregory Harris. She was employed by Northeast Company for many years. In addition to Greg Harris (Meriden), Debbie is survived by her beloved son, Justin Harris of Los Angeles, CA, her brother George Duncan (Harwinton) and his wife Sandra and her sister Beverly Hill (Terryville) and her husband Richard. Debbie is also survived by her good friend, Gail Wright of Massena, NY, many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and her sweet kitty, Smokey. Debbie was a devoted Deacon of Third Church Congregational in Middletown, and active in The Boy Scouts of America, PTA of Lawrence Elementary School and a member of The Wesleyan Potters. She was a resident of Alzheimer’s Resource Center of CT, Plantsville for almost five years. She will be missed for many things but most for her beautiful smile and wonderful laugh. A Memorial Service will be held Tuesday (Dec. 3) at 11:00am at the First Church of Christ, Congregational, 61 Main St., Unionville, 06085 with Rev. Cynthia Carr officiating. Burial will be private for the family members. Memorial donations may be made in her name to the Alzheimer’s Resource Center of CT, 1261 South Main St., Plantsville, CT 06479.
Sponzo, Marion P. (Dalton)
Marion P. (Dalton) Sponzo, of Avon, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 28th. She was predeceased by her husband, Dr. Michael T. Sponzo only one month ago. Born in Hartford, August 27, 1924, the daughter of Peter Dalton and Bessie (Breen) Dalton, she was a first generation Irish American. She graduated from St. Augustine’s School and Bulkeley High School where she was a member of the National Honor Society. During the height of World War II, she entered the work force and shortly after married her husband, then a young Army Captain. They eventually settled in Avon, Connecticut and raised their four children, enjoying summer vacations to Nova Scotia, winter skiing in Vermont and occasional trips to Europe, sometimes with her small children in tow. A lifelong avid reader, she delayed her college aspirations until her children were grown. She received her B.A. degree from Central Connecticut State University, as a Phi Beta Kappa. She returned to work first at the University of Connecticut School of Law, followed by the State of Connecticut Freedom of Information Commission and retired with her husband to a small country house in Colebrook, Connecticut. In their last years, they returned to Avon living at Farmington Woods and continued to enjoy travel and studies. She filled her home with laughter, literature, wit and kindness. She is survived by her four children, Dr. Thomas S. Sponzo and his wife Colly of Simsbury, Anne Marie Sponzo of Canton, Suzanne M. Bertrand of New Hartford and Michael T. Sponzo Jr., and his wife Mary of West Hartford; her brother, Dr. George R. Dalton and his wife Elaine of West Hartford, her sister-in-law Rose Sponzo of Farmington; her six grandchildren, Jem C. Sponzo, Esq. and her husband Bradford Stewart of Washington, D.C, Britt K. Sponzo of Manhattan, T.J. Sponzo of Manhattan, Erin M. Bertrand, PhD of San Diego, Michael D. Wolftrand and his wife Eve of Torrington, and Daniel J. Bertrand of San Diego. She was predeceased by her brother, Peter J. Dalton. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the caring staff at the Avon Health Center. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday (Dec. 3) at 12:00pm in the Church of St. Ann, 289 Arch Road, Avon. Burial will be in Mt. St. Benedict Cemetery, Bloomfield.
Therriault, Dorothy Daniels
Dorothy Daniels Therriault, 94, beloved wife of the late Lionel Therriault for 52 years passed peacefully on Thanksgiving morning, November 28, 2013. She was lovingly cared for by her daughters Katherine Therriault and Mary Uman in her home where she lived with Katherine for the past 14 years. Born on February 6, 1919, to the late John H. and Mary (Fallon) Daniels, she spent many happy years growing up on the family farm (Lindenwood Dairy) in Usquepaugh, Rhode Island. Dorothy was one of the first women in Rhode Island to obtain a pasteurization license. She then attended Bryant College on a 4H scholarship. Dorothy met her future husband, Lionel, while making deliveries for the dairy when Lionel and his brothers came down from Maine to clear the debris left by the Great Hurricane of 1938. Dorothy and Lionel were married on December 30, 1944, in Brownwood, TX, where Lionel was stationed at the U.S. Army Camp Bowie before he was shipped to the Pacific during World War II. Dorothy and Lionel settled in Connecticut where they raised their eight children. Dorothy returned to work as a secretary at the UCONN Health Center and later retired from there. Dorothy was a communicant of St. Mary Star of the Sea Church since 1957, and had served as president of the Women’s Guild. Her many talents included gardening, baking, canning, fishing, camping, sewing and knitting. After retiring, she and Lionel shared a love for quilting, both winning many awards. Dorothy is survived by her seven children and their spouses, Dorothy and Dave Japonis of Bristol, Katherine Therriault of Bristol, Frances and Jay McCaffrey of Burlington, Marilyn and Maurice Howard of New Britain; Mary T. Uman of Canton, Linda Therriault and Sal Vene of Enfield; and Charles and Peggy Therriault of Southport; her grandchildren Dave and Roni Japonis, Diana and Geoffrey Holmes, Daniel and Geri Japonis, Dennis and Melissa Japonis, Amanda McCaffrey, Andrew McCaffrey, John Uman, Daniel Uman, Lauren Therriault and Hillary Therriault; and eight great-grandchildren, Khalen and Kamden Japonis, Alicia and Garret Holmes, Paige and Taylor and Ashley and Brandon; her sisters Geraldine Harrington of Farmington, and Madeline Brown of North Kingstown, RI, and her sister-in-law Rita Theriault of Bristol, and numerous nieces and nephews. Dorothy was predeceased by her daughter Deborah, her brother John Daniels, and her sister Mary Fuesz. The family would like to extend a special thanks to her creative and devoted caregivers Shirline, Cheryl, Martine, Sue, and Donna that allowed her to remain living at home. They are also thankful for the exceptionally caring staff of McLean Hospice, especially Linda, Janet, Cindy and Urzula. Family and friends may call at The Ahern Funeral Home, 111 Main Street, Rt. 4, Unionville, on December 1, 2013, from 4-7 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday December 2, 2013, at 10:00 am at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church,145 Main Street, Unionville, CT. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Huckleberry Hill Road, Avon. Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut, 2075 Silas Deane Highway, Suite 100, Rocky Hill CT 06067 or McLean Hospice, 75 Great Pond Road, Simsbury, CT 06070.
Johnson, Robert Francis
Robert Francis Johnson, a North Canaan native, died Thursday December 5th in Unionville, CT where he resided since 2006. He was 79. He was born in North Canaan, CT on January 27, 1934 to the late Charles and Catherine (Killawee) Johnson. Bob as he was known, attended elementary school in North Canaan, CT and was a 1951 Graduate of Housatonic Valley Regional High School in Falls Village, CT. He served in the U.S. Army reserve 7th 31st Field Artillery. He married Joan Marie Walsh of Salisbury, CT in 1953. An active member of the Roman Catholic Church throughout his life, he is survived by his children, Karen J. Casey of South Kent, CT, Gerilynn Kenniston and her husband Edward of West Cornwall, CT, James P. Johnson of North Canaan, CT, Lisa M. O’Connor and her husband John of Unionville, CT, and Maria J. Johnson and her partner A.J. Hanson of Manchester, CT. He was predeceased by his son, Michael K. Johnson and also by his second wife, Susan Chapin Johnson of Alford, MA. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, Zachary C. Casey and his wife Stacey of Waitsfield, VT, Jesse C. Casey and his wife Candice of Burlington, CT, Kallie Casey Gawel and her husband Will of Kent, CT, Jennifer Kenniston of West Cornwall, CT, Janna Kenniston Rice and her husband Jeremy of Austin, Texas, Timothy O’Connor of Savannah, Georgia, Catherine O’Connor and Jack O’Connor of Unionville, CT. He was also the proud great grandfather to 9 great grandchildren ages 12 years to 6 months. Bob was a regional store manager from 1951-1963 and again from 1976-1981 for The First National Food Store Chain both in Connecticut and Massachusetts. He was a school photographer for the Alton Studios of Boston, MA, during the years of 1964-1970. From 1982 to 1988 he was employed as the road Foreman for the Town of Alford, MA and then he was employed from the State of Massachusetts highway department as a traffic foreman. Mr. Johnson was an active downhill skier throughout his life and enjoyed NASCAR racing events and both local and professional baseball games. During 9/11, he volunteered as a driver in Manhattan, NY for the American Red Cross. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, December 12, 2013 at 10:00am in the Church of St. Mary Star of the Sea, Unionville. There are no calling hours. A private burial for the immediate family will take place in the spring of 2014. Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to the American Red Cross, CT Chapter, 209 Farmington Ave., Farmington, CT 06032 or to the American Heart Association, 5 Brookside Drive, Wallingford, CT 06492.
Slater, Maxine Hartline
Maxine Hartline Slater, formerly of Farmington, passed away Saturday, December 7th at the Avon Health Center. She was the beloved wife of Andrew (Pete) E. Slater, Jr., for 60 years. They had met at a dance at the Bond Hotel the night before he was shipped out to the Pacific during World War II. They communicated while he was in the service and married six months after his return from duty. She was born July 3, 1921 in Hartford, the daughter of the late Jack and Mary Manion Hartline. She was also predeceased by her sister Geraldine Manion. Maxine was a graduate of Buckeley High School, Class of 1939. She spent most of her career working for the John Hancock Insurance Company. In retirement, she loved to shop, read her Harlequin Romances, and cruise around with her friend Jean Dibiasio. She never met a restaurant she didn’t love. She is survived by her many nieces and nephews- Barbara, Renie, Bill, Suzanne, Andrew, Bob, Bud and her “baby” Hank. The family would like to thank all of those involved in Maxine’s care, most especially the staff at Avon Health Center. Funeral services will be private. Memorial contributions may be made in Maxine’s name the Church of St. Patrick, 110 Main St., Farmington, CT 06032.
Noury, Leslie A.
Leslie A. Noury, 52, of Farmington, beloved wife of Patrick J. Noury, passed away Monday, December 9th at Hartford Hospital. Born in Hartford, January 16th, 1961, she was the daughter of Ruth (MacBain) Hickey of Farmington and the late John T. Hickey. Leslie was a graduate of Syracuse University and received her master’s degree from Central Connecticut State University. She attended Pot au Feu Cooking School in Paris and the Culinary Institute of Connecticut before beginning her 15 year career in Education. Leslie began her teaching career at Farmington High School and was most recently a French Teacher at Wolcott High School for the past two years. Besides her husband and mother, she is survived by her two sons, Christopher Noury and Peter Noury both of Farmington and her two brothers, Robert Hickey of Farmington and Mike Hickey of San Francisco, CA. Funeral services will be held Saturday (Dec. 14) at 1:00pm in The Ahern Funeral Home, 111 Main St., Rt. 4, Unionville. There are no calling hours.
Harper, Bertha (Tuthill)
Bertha (Tuthill) Harper, 90, of Farmington, passed peacefully into eternal rest surrounded by her loving family on December 13, 2013 in Avon. Bertha was born on January 14, 1923 to the late Fredrick O. Tuthill and Barbara (Minkwitz) Tuthill of Naugatuck. She was predeceased by her brother Fredrick B. Tuthill and her sister Jean Massey. Bertha was married to the late Charles Smith of Meriden for 46 years and together they raised four children and one foster child. They raised their family in Granby, CT, spending their summers at the beach in Westbrook. Charles and Bertha retired to Deerfield Beach, Florida in the winters where they were active in church, Shriners, and with their many friends and acquaintances. Bertha was a member of the Shriners lady’s band in Deerfield Beach as well as the Daughters of the American Revolution. Bertha is survived by her son Donald Smith and his wife Judith of Watertown, and her three daughters Lynda Veleas of Farmington, Barbara-Jean Fitting and her husband Jeffery of Pleasant Valley, and Denise MacGregor and her husband Thomas of Essex; 7 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She was the wife of the late Robert Harper for 20 years. There will be a memorial service to celebrate her life at The Ahern Funeral Home, 111 Main Street, Rt.4 in Unionville at 7:00 pm on Wednesday December 18, 2013.
O’Dell, Dewey E. Jr.
Dewey E. O’Dell, 76, of Burlington, beloved husband of 51 years to Sandra Benedict O’Dell passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, December 14th. Born in Ticonderoga, NY, he was the son of the late Dewey and Elizabeth O’Dell Sr. Mr. O’Dell was a United States Army veteran, having served in Korea. He had worked at the International Paper Company, Holo-Krome Corp., Jacobs Mfg. and the US Postal Service. He had served as President of the UAW Local 379, and was VP of the NALC Branch 86. He was a past President of the LGIA, member of the Burlington Fire Department, Burlington Democratic Committee, and Burlington Historical Society. He was also a Justice of the Peace for the Town of Burlington. Besides his wife, he is survived by his daughters, Timi Joy Huestis and husband Philip of Ticonderoga, NY, and Tiffany-Hope O’Dell of Charlotte, NC, his adored grandsons, Joshua and Dalton Huestis, his brother, Gordon O’Dell, sisters, Rosemary Smith, Hilda Hamel, and Joanne White and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends may call at The Ahern Funeral Home, 111 Main St., Rt. 4, Unionville on Saturday (Dec. 21) from 11:00-1:30pm followed by services in The Ahern Funeral Home at 1:30pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Protection of Animals, 144 Main St., East Hartford, CT 06118 or to McLean Hospice, 75 Great Pond Road, Simsbury, CT 06070.
Smith, Patsy “Pat”
Patsy (Pat) Smith, 79, died Tuesday (December 17, 2013) at her home in Avon. Pat is predeceased by her husband, Bobby, who passed away earlier this year. Pat and Bob celebrated 61 years of marriage, including 20 years of military life. Pat and Bob ultimately settled in Farmington, CT, to be near their children and grandchild. Pat became an active volunteer at the Farmington Library in support of her new community. Pat is survived by her son, John Smith, of Manheim, PA, and her daughter, Carol Binns, of Avon, and grandaughter, Samantha Binns, also of Avon. There will be no services. Memorial contributions can be made to the Friends of the Farmington Library in Farmington, CT.
Raymond, W. Frances
Fran Raymond passed away peacefully on Christmas Day, December 25th at the Alzheimer’s Resource Center in Southington, CT from complications arising from Alzheimer’s Disease. Her family salutes her fortitude and determination in coping with the dementia that robbed her of so many pleasures in her later years. Fran was an engaged and active participant in all of life’s many pleasures as well as problems. She led an active life with her first husband, George Whitten, a chemical engineer, and traveled with him to Europe and Japan. After George died, she met and married Bill Raymond and they joined her three daughters and son with Bill’s three daughters and were married for 38 years. Fran was a member of the Board of the Friends of the Hill-Stead and helped plan and run many of the events that contributed to funding of the Hill-Stead. She also served for many years as a member of the Friends of the Farmington Library, six of those years as President. She leaves her husband, Bill, her son Gary Whitten of Laurel, MD, daughters Debbie Whitten, also of Laurel, MD, Laurie Whitten of West Suffield, CT, Cherie Byrne and husband Pat of Huntsville, AL, granddaughter Dr. Shannon Burgess and husband Dr. Andy Burgess, granddaughter, Erin, husband Dave, great-granddaughters Megan and Heather. Stepdaughters, Dana Raymond of Ocean City MD, grandsons Brian Hoffman, Eric Hoffman and wife Kelley, Dr. Lynn Raymond and husband, Dr. Tim Murphy of Vancouver, Canada, grandsons Adreon, Luke and Evan, and Dr. Carol Raymond and husband, Steve LaBrecque of Altadena, CA, grandchildren Kyle and Lindsay. Fran and Bill’s early married life was spent in Manhasset, Long Island before moving to Farmington in 1981. They both enjoyed many travels to Europe, the Mediterranean, Australia, the Caribbean, Alaska, Hawaii, China and Japan. Friends may call at The Ahern Funeral Home, 111 Main St., Rt. 4, Unionville on Sunday (Dec. 29) from 2:00-5:00pm. Funeral services will be held Monday (Dec. 30) at 10:00am in St. James Parish, 3 Mountain Road, Farmington followed by burial in Riverside Cemetery, Farmington. Donations, in lieu of flowers, may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association – Connecticut Chapter, 2075 Silas Deane Highway, Suite 100, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
Moore, William Milton
William Milton Moore Ph.D., 87, of Farmington, beloved husband of Elizabeth “Kitty” (Henry) Moore, passed away peacefully Sunday, December 22nd. Born May 19, 1926 in Cleveland, TN, he was the son of the late Watt and Sallie (Bryan) Moore. He was a United States Navy veteran. Dr. Moore was a graduate of Bradley High School, Class of 1944, received his B.S. from Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, TN, Class of 1948, majoring in Health and Physical Education, received his M.S. from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, Class of 1949, majoring in Physical Education and received his Ph.D. in Physical Education from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, Class of 1954. Dr. Moore began his career as the Director of Athletics, Head Football Coach and Head Basketball Coach at Shepherd College in West Virginia from 1951-1953, then became the Director, Division of Health and Physical Education at Central Connecticut State University from 1962-1983, where he was Director of Athletics from 1962-1983, Head Football Coach from 1959-1961 and Head Basketball Coach from 1953-1959. In January of 1983, he became the Director of Physical Education, Athletics and Recreation at the University of Albany, State University of New York until 1993. From January 1994-June 2000, Dr. Moore was the Commissioner of the New England Collegiate Conference and from September 1, 1999 until his retirement in March of 2008, he was the Commissioner of the Little East Conference. Dr. Moore was inducted into the NACDA Director of Athletics Hall of Fame in 2008 and was also the proud receipient of the Gold Key Award from the Sports Writers Association from the State of Connecticut. He was an active member of the First Church of Christ, Congregational in Farmington. Besides his wife, he is survived by his son, Dr. Douglas Moore of Medford, NJ, his two granddaughters, Hayley Reynolds Moore and Heather Emily Moore, and a nephew Ben C. Moore of Cleveland, TN. He was predeceased by his son, William Craig Moore, his brother, Joe S. Moore and his sisters, Irene Moore Renner, Hattie Moore Ledbetter and Ruth Moore Tallent. Memorial services will be held at a place and a date to be announced. Memorial contributions may be made to the Moore Family Fund, CCSU Foundation Inc., P.O. Box 612, New Britain, CT 06050-0612.