Agnes Conover passed away at her home in Norwalk, CT on April 16, 2018, at the age of 92.
Born & raised in Brooklyn, NY, Agnes was proud of her Maltese heritage.
Agnes worked in Manhattan before she married her husband Nelson. During their 40 years of marriage, they lived in Brooklyn, Pittsburg, and Baltimore before settling in Norwalk to raise their family.
In addition to her role as a full time mother, she worked as an administrative assistant at the Fine Arts Theaters and Stauffer Chemical.
Agnes was an active volunteer for more than 50 years in the St Jerome Woman’s Guild, the Shawl Ministry Group that provided hand knitted shawls to cancer patients and the Open Door Shelter in Norwalk.
She is survived by her sons Steve his wife Cathy of Norwalk, her son Mike his wife Kay of New Canaan, her son Bob of New York City and her grandchildren Nelson, Anne, John and Kevin Conover.
She is predeceased by her husband Nelson, grandson Bobby, sister Mary Cowin & her husband Ken, her sister-in-law Geraldine Munce & her husband Howard, her brother-in-law Bob Conover & his wife Rosemary and her sister-in-law Lillian McGree & her husband Don.
Her family will receive friends on Friday, April 20 from 4-8 PM, at the Magner Funeral Home, 12 Mott Avenue, Norwalk. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, April 21 at 10 AM, at St. Jerome Church, 23 Half Mile Road, Norwalk, with burial to follow at St. John Cemetery.
Donations can be made in the name of Agnes Conover to the Open Door Shelter in Norwalk, CT. For directions or to leave an online condolence, please go to: www.Magnerfuneralhome.com.
C. Lincoln Jewett — “Link” to all who knew him — died peacefully on April 8, 2018.
Link was a lifelong learner and explorer, pursuing his curiosity and expanding his knowledge into his final days. He was a gentleman and a snappy dresser. Those qualities, plus his innate kindness and sense of fun, endeared him to people around the world.
The son of Paul Norris and Etta May Jewett, and stepmother Hazel Bell Jewett, he was born July 15, 1921, in Boston and grew up in Brookline, MA.
Link attended Michael Driscoll grammar school and Brookline High School and graduated from the Rivers School. He was a proud member of the University of Maine class of 1944. In both high school and college, Link had played the cornet in the marching band. This contributed to his love of jazz and big band music. Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey and Benny Goodman were among his heroes.
Along with many of his Greatest Generation classmates, Link interrupted his studies to fight in World War II. He enlisted in 1943 and served as a First Lieutenant in the Army Signal Corps, operating communication systems in France, Belgium and Holland to support the Allied troops.
In Marblehead, MA, Link met Truda Lee Cleeves, whom he called “T.” and who shared his love of sailing and travel. They married in 1954. They were a great team. They spent the early years of the marriage in Cambridge and Washington, DC. They moved in 1963 to Darien, CT, where they raised their two daughters and had remained ever since.
Link was drawn to the intersection of science and industry. Early in his career, he worked for the science and engineering firm of Arthur D. Little, Inc, in Cambridge and Washington, DC and at Union Carbide Corporation in New York. At ADL, he marketed pioneering cryogenic products, which became the foundation for rocket propellants for ballistic missiles, moon shots and space shuttles, among other applications. At Union Carbide, he worked in the field of industrial pyrogenics. He was a founder of the New England Chapter of the American Rocket Society and National Rocket Club in Washington, DC. He was also a member of the International Order of Characters which, besides having a great name, was dedicated to improving the fields of aviation and aerospace.These roles reflected his interest in exploration of the outer limits.
For 35 subsequent years, he was a partner at North American Realty Advisory Services, a Manhattan-based consulting firm specializing in adaptive reuse of closed industrial plants and military bases.
Link logged countless hours and nautical miles on Sam Cat and Sam Cat II, beloved family powerboats. Together with T., friends and relatives, Link sailed and cruised in Greece, Bermuda, Turkey, Egypt, the Caribbean Islands; Long Island, Block Island and Vineyard Sounds; Massachusetts Bay; Maine; Canada; the Chesapeake Bay; British Columbia; the Great Lakes; the Mississippi and Tennessee Rivers; the Erie Canal; and the St. Lawrence Seaway.
He also journeyed by land, water and air throughout Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Eurasia. He published articles about some of his more exotic travels in periodicals such as Power & Motor Yacht, Boating, PassageMaker, and the Darien Times. Particular travel highlights for Link included Vietnam, Burma, New Zealand, Cuba and Siberia.
Link was a member of New York Yacht Club, Noroton Yacht Club, Darien Boat Club, Darien Sail and Power Squadron, The Corinthians, Wee Burn Country Club, Congressional Country Club and the Darien Advisory Commission on Coastal Waters.
One of Link’s enthusiasms was celestial navigation. It is fitting then, that to T., Lisa and Lolly, Link was the family pilot — the sailor who has detailed knowledge of the waterways, winds, currents and tides at any port of call; who maneuvers ships through dangerous waters, bids them off on their journeys, and ushers them back into safe harbor. Link had plenty of adventures of his own, but he was ever their navigator.
Link’s wife T. died in October 2017. He is survived by his daughters, Lisa Jewett and Laura (Lolly) Jewett, his sons-in-law Joseph Remski and Abner Oakes, and his grandson Charles Jewett Oakes.
A celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m. on May 18 at Noroton Yacht Club.
Anne W. Davern, 89, a resident of Windsor, Vt., passed away on Friday, April 20, 2018 at the Cedar Hill Health Care Center in Windsor.
Anne was born in Rochester, NY on November 29, 1928, the daughter of the late Homer and Esther (Hicks) West. She grew up in Scranton, PA and Albany, NY.
After graduating from the Academy of Holy Names in Albany, Anne attended Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she studied painting and illustration. She had a vibrant career as a fashion illustrator and worked for several major retailers, including Bonwit Teller, Bloomingdale’s, Lord & Taylor, and Saks Fifth Avenue. She continued creating beautiful artwork throughout her lifetime, both for work and for personal pleasure.
Anne married Bryan J. Davern in September, 1955. They enjoyed 60 years of marriage, living in New York City and Cold Spring Harbor, NY, before settling in New Canaan, CT for 35 years. Bryan and Anne shared an amazing sense of adventure, traveling the world and making friends wherever they went.
Anne’s cheerful disposition and wonderful sense of humor could lighten the mood of any situation. She was a lover of music who spontaneously broke into song, often inventing her own lyrics in place of the original ones. An avid walker, she enjoyed befriending people and pets alike on her daily strolls.
Anne is survived by two sons and a daughter-in-law, John P. Davern of New Haven, CT, and Robert F. and Sandra J. (Perron) Davern of North Springfield, VT. She is also survived by many cherished nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Anne was predeceased by her brother Robert West, O.S.C.O. and her sister Bette West.
A family celebration of Anne’s life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Doctors without Borders.
The Knight Funeral Home in Windsor is entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to her family in an online guestbook at www.knightfuneralhomes.com.
Edward “Ed” Louis Maier, age 87, of Punta Gorda, Florida, formerly of New Canaan, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 22, 2018, at his Punta Gorda residence.
Ed was born in Pennsylvania, in June of 1930 to the late Louis and Frances Maier. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, he was honorably discharged from service with the rank of Lt. Commander. Ed enjoyed a long career with the Xerox Corporation, retiring as an executive, before relocating to Punta Gorda, FL from New Canaan, CT, in 1996 with his wife Mary Jo. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Punta Gorda, and the Knights of Columbus Council No. 8074.
He is survived by five loving children, daughters, Carolyn Maier of Punta Gorda, Valerie Ellis of Pinehurst, NC, and Kim Maier of Melbourne, FL, and sons, Edward L. (Debra) Maier, Jr. of Pittsford, NY, and Jeff (Lisa) Maier of Huntington, NY; eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Ed was preceded in death by a sister Theresa Shramek, one grandchild, and his beloved wife of 58 years, Mary Jo.
A Mass of Christian burial celebrating Edwards’ life will be held 11 a.m. on Friday, April 27, 2018, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Punta Gorda. Committal will be held in Erie, Pennsylvania, at a later date.
Friends may visit online at www.robersonfh.com to extend condolences to the family. Arrangements are by Roberson Funeral Homes & Crematory, Punta Gorda Chapel.
Ann Depuy of New Canaan would like to let everyone who knew her and cared for her that her work here is done. Ann joyfully came into this world on September 4, 1952, left far too soon on April 5, 2018, touching so many during her amazing life.
She courageously battled with ALS for more than five years due to her stubborn insistence on living fully for as long as she could, and thanks to the strong support of her husband, Warner, her children and family, her friends and the entire New Canaan community. She willingly donated her stem cells to the Lou Gehrig ALS Center at Columbia University to aid in research for treatments and a cure for this horrific disease.
Earlier in her life of service she participated in a three plus year study of women’s health issues at Yale University Hospital. If she could have lived longer for all she cared for, she would have. Ann loved life, she was fearless, she was graceful. She listened intently and without judgement, and was a friend to anyone who needed help.
Ann graduated from Greenwich High School in 1970 and from Lasell Junior College in 1972, then attended the University of Arizona, later finishing her Bachelor’s at University of Connecticut while working full time and raising a family. She was close to receiving her Masters in Library Science, when ALS interrupted her studies three credits short of her degree. Over her exemplary life she worked as a fashion account representative, an amazing cook as a personal chef, as a substitute teacher and softball coach in the public school system, as the director of FPCNC’s Sunday school, and as a lover of books, a part time librarian awaiting her degree.
Always a human welcome wagon, she was an avid skier, played ice hockey, played golf and tennis, started a paddle-tennis group, was a member of several book and bridge groups, sang in the Church choir, and was an active Stephen Minister as part of FPCNC’s pastoral care team.
Ann is survived by her devoted husband, Warner Depuy, her daughter Michaela Wales and son-in-law Tyler Buckley, her son Nick Depuy, her sister Linda McDonald of South Carolina, her brother James Bollinger of Greenwich, her sister Susan Neumann of Redding, her sister Janet Huley of Greenwich, 14 nieces and nephews, and 3 grand nieces. Ann was predeceased by her parents Dorothy and Howard Bollinger.
A memorial service celebrating a life filled with light and love and music will take place at First Presbyterian Church New Canaan on June 2nd at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in her name to Graybeards Ltd. for ALS home care needs.
For directions, online condolences, and for information regarding the charity, Graybeards, please contact Hoyt Funeral Home or visit www.hoytfuneralhome.com.
Constance A. Platts, age 87, a longtime New Canaan resident died peacefully Saturday, April 21, 2018 at her New Canaan home with her loving husband Gerard Coderre by her side.
Born in Norwalk, CT on March 14, 1931 she was the daughter of the late Irving and Edith Becker Wood.
Constance was an architect who designed and built many homes and condo complexes in New Canaan, along with her late husband George Platts. Some of these include Church Hill Walk, South Gate, Canaan Square and Hatfield Mews.
She was an avid sailor and navigated her own sailboat with her husband Gerry. They had built their winter home in Islamorada, FL returning to New England in the spring where she loved working in her gardens.
In addition to her husband Gerard, she is survived by a sister, Lee Fairty of Norwalk, a brother Bruce Wood of Tennessee, and stepchildren, Robert and Mark Coderre, David Platts and Linda Ring and nephews, David, Scott, Jay, John and Eric.
A private interment will be held at the family plot in Glastonbury, CT.
Lisa Baldwin Berizzi, “Bubbles,” 62, passed away peacefully at home on February 24th after a courageous and fierce battle with pancreatic cancer.
Lisa was born June 1, 1955 in Lunenburg, MA to the late Sherman and Beth Baldwin. They moved to Greenwich, CT in 1964 where she attended Greenwich schools and graduated from Marymount College of Virginia.
She spent her entire career as an amazing and compassionate nurse at Greenwich Hospital. All that knew her, her colleagues, her patients, her friends adored her.
Lisa’s incredible adventurous spirit was contagious, and she often had groups of friends travel with her to Africa or other faraway destinations. Her daughter, Maggie, wrote the morning after her passing:
“She (Lisa) flew planes, drove motorcycles and rode horses; if there was a choice of a direction, ‘the road less traveled’ was the only option as far she she was concerned. My Mother (Lisa) was the strongest, bravest and most relentless woman I have ever known and the last nine months, cancer left her with a body that was a disgrace to her spirit. Thankfully last night she let go after a fierce fight. My heartstrings will forever be played by my magnificent Mom (Lisa), I pray you are finally as free as you always wanted to be.”
Lisa loved to cook, loved her dogs and horses, loved spending time at Tod’s Point and her passport was filled with stamps from all around the world but none of this compared to the love she had for her family.
Lisa is survived by her husband of 37 years, Louis Berizzi, two daughters Maggie Stewart (Jeremy) of Malibu, CA, Annabelle Berizzi of Greenwich, CT and Louis Jr of Wagener, SC, four grandchildren, Tristin Berizzi, August Matthes, Neri and Poppy Stewart, two sisters, Anne Castine of Greenwich, CT and Tucker Murphy of New Canaan, CT and one brother, Sherman L Baldwin, Jr of Sarasota, FL., six nephews and five nieces. She made friends wherever her travels took her, and she will be missed by many.
A memorial service will be held on June 2, 2018, at 11 a.m., at the Roger Sherman Inn, 195 Oenoke Ridge, New Canaan, CT as well as a celebration of a life well lived in South Carolina later this year.
Jean DiPanni, age 90, of New Canaan, died peacefully Saturday evening, April 28, 2018 with her loving sons by her side.
She was born in Panni, Italy on August 7, 1927. She was the daughter of the late Giuseppe and Maria DeCotiis. She was predeceased by her husband Michael DiPanni who died in 1994.
Jean met her husband (Michael) in Panni, Italy while he was on military leave from Germany. They married in Italy and soon thereafter settled in New Canaan where they started their family. In 1975, together, they opened The Vegetable Barn and Deli which is still currently a landmark in town.
She had a passion for gardening, reading her novels, sewing and especially cooking. The highlight of her life was her family. Doting over her grandchildren gave her the utmost pleasure. She was a devoted catholic and parishioner of St. Aloysius.
Jean is survived by her four sons, Joseph DiPanni (Lynne C. Schulthess) of Norwalk, Robert DiPanni, Michael A. DiPanni Jr. (Rosanna) and David A. DiPanni (Michelle) all of New Canaan. Two sisters, Josephine DeCotiis and Anna Dibisceglia both of Foggia, Italy and six grandchildren, Michael III, Brianna, Mitchell, Joseph, Sean and Christina. In addition to her husband she was predeceased by her brother, Antonio DeCotiis and her sister, Santina Procaccini.
The family would like to recognize her caretaker Merlin Ruiz-Nyakh for the extraordinary care she showed to Jean and the entire family.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday May 3, 2018 at 10:30 am at St Aloysius Church, Cherry Street, New Canaan, CT. Interment at Lakeview Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Wednesday, May 2, 2018, from 4PM to 8 PM, at the Hoyt Funeral Home, 199 Main Street, New Canaan.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research at Michaeljfox.org, or the New Canaan Volunteer Ambulance Corp. PO Box 598, New Canaan, CT 06840.
Connie M. Sartorio died on April 28, 2018. She was 80-years-old. Mrs. Sartorio returned to Connecticut in 2003 after having lived in Naples, FL for 10 years. She was a resident of Norwalk, CT. Prior to going to Naples, she lived most of her life in New Canaan, CT. She spent a short time in Kilmarnock, VA with her husband, The Reverend Paul L. Sartorio after his retirement as a minister of the United Methodist Church in New Canaan.
She is survived by her son, Michael Sette of Newtown, CT; her daughter-in-law Lisa Benjamin Sette; her brother Walter G. Schetrompf of Wilson, NC and three nephews.
She was born on June 22, 1927 in Philipsburg, PA, the daughter of the late Rose Marie (Reader) and Walter G. Schetrompf. She was predeceased by her husbands, Mr. Ralph J. Sette and the Reverend Paul L. Sartorio, her son Clifton Angstadt and her brother, Robert E. Schetrompf.
Mrs. Sartorio was a member of the Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church in Naples, FL., where she served as an Elder and on many other church committees prior to returning to CT. Mrs. Sartorio was a former New Canaan Insurance and Real Estate Agent in the State of CT. She was a member of the Insurance Women’s Association of Southern Connecticut and served on its Board of Directors during her working years. She served as Vice-Chairman on the Board of Directors of the Day Care Center in New Canaan, Inc. She also served on the Board of Directors of her condominium association where she lived in FL. She was a Trustee of the Southwest Florida Yale Club and authored the book ‘Quiet Times’ under her pen name of C. Griffith. After returning to CT, Mrs. Sartorio became a member of the Wilton Congregational Church.
Funeral Services will take place at Naples Memorial Gardens and will be private. A memorial service will be held at the Wilton Congregational Church in Wilton, CT on May 12, at noon.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Fish Driving Service of Norwalk (an organization that provides transportation to seniors) located at 1 Park Street, Norwalk CT, 06851.
It is with tremendous sadness that we inform you of the passing of Louis F. Buccieri of New Canaan, CT from complications associated with heart failure and lung cancer.
Born May 29, 1938 in Greenwich, CT Louis was raised in Darien, CT, spent most of his adult life and raised his children in Stamford, CT.
Predeceased by his parents, Frank and Sue Buccieri of Darien, CT, Lou leaves behind his wife of 19 years, Brooke L Buccieri of New Canaan, his daughters Lana J. Buccieri and Lyn Buccieri Fox and his grandson, Cooper B. Fox also of New Canaan.
Dearly loved by his family and friends Lou was a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and very well respected in the Stamford business community. Unofficially dubbed by many the “Mayor of Stamford’s Eastside” there was never a face Lou didn’t seem to know and warmly greet. Generous to all with his wisdom, time and resources he was always tenderhearted to those most in need.
Professionally, he owned and operated New Hope Service which was for years the largest Mac Truck service provider in New England at the East Main Street location in Stamford that now comprises his company’s commercial real estate holdings. Both individually and as past Vice – Chairman of the East Side Partnership, Lou was a tremendous supporter of the Stamford law enforcement community from building the City’s first battering ram to aiding in the purchase and training of the City’s first K-9 officers.
An expert with engines and a passionate race fan, Lou worked on many a racecar engine as part of both sprint car and dragster pit crews and actually attended the Daytona 500 when it ran on Daytona Beach. His passion for classic cars saw him restoring by hand a 1948 Cadillac fastback series 62 which was featured in the Greenwich Concourse d’Elegance and won many awards in several regional car shows.
In keeping with Lou’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. The family invites those who wish to join them in attending the funeral mass at 10:30 am on Tuesday, May 15th at St. Aloysius Parish, 21 Cherry St., New Canaan. Interment will be held private.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Lou’s memory can be made to: St. Aloysius parish, the Diocese of Bridgeport or RealLifeCatholic.com.
David M. Calitri passed away at his home in Norwalk, CT on Jan. 4, 2018 with his family by his side.
David was born on May 14, 1956, to the late John J. Calitri and Jean Zoppi Calitri.
David lived most of his life in New Canaan before moving to Norwalk. David graduated from New Canaan High School in 1974 where he excelled in football, baseball and softball.
David was predeceased by his two sisters, Sandra Schutte of Michigan and Marlene Saviano of Norwalk.
David is survived by his brothers, Roy Calitri of Norwalk, CT, Tim Calitri of Stamford, CT and John Calitri of New Canaan, his twin sister Debra Manual of Shelton, CT, brother-in-law Bill Manual, brother-in-law Richard Schutte, and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial Mass will be held at Saint Aloysius R.C. Church on Saturday, June 2, at 11 a.m.
Interment will follow at Lakeview Cemetary.
All donations can be made out to Connecticut Hospice, 1 Park St., Norwalk, CT 06851.
Thomas Hebert of Vero Beach, FL, formerly of New Canaan, CT, died on May 9th at Oak Harbor in Vero Beach, Florida. He was 86-years-old.
Mr. Hebert was born on April 8, 1932 in Flushing, NY, son of the late Elmer T. and Adelaide H. Hebert.
After graduation from Xavier Military Academy, Mr. Hebert attended and received a bachelor’s degree from Fordham University, also in New York City; he spent his junior year abroad attending the Sorbonne University in Paris, France. He then served in the military for two years in the US Army, stationed in Germany.
After his military service, he returned to New York City and joined his family’s company, the Hebert Corporation, a distributor of architectural building products, where he became President in 1969. Mr. Hebert expanded the company and it became a preeminent provider of building products for major commercial construction projects in the Boston — Washington corridor, including the John Hancock Tower, Madison Square Garden, the World Trade Center, and the East Wing of the National Gallery of Art, among many others.
Known as “Tom,” he married Joan Corkill of New Canaan, CT in 1957. Tom and Joan settled in New Canaan where they raised their six children. They were parishioners of St. Aloysius Church and active in numerous local community organizations and charities; they were founding members of the Stanwich Club in Greenwich, CT and later the Country Club of New Canaan and the New Canaan Winter Club. Tom was formerly a member of the University Club of New York in Manhattan; for several years he served on New Canaan’s Board of Finance and was President of the United Way of New Canaan.
Tom was a golfer and skier, but his real passion was sailing. He was a member of the Norwalk Yacht Club and cruised with family and friends on Long Island Sound and off the US east coast; he also crewed on several Newport to Bermuda races. He was a music patron for many years, enjoying performances of the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera and The Philadelphia Orchestra. Tom was active in several choral groups, including the St. Aloysius Choir in New Canaan and the Orchid Island Choral Group; in addition, he sang in the Berkshire Choral Festival which performed with the Canterbury Cathedral Choir in London.
After retiring to Vero Beach in 2001, Tom continued working as a consultant to Canaan Distributors Corp. to which he had earlier sold his company. Tom also played golf and bridge at the Orchid Island Beach and Golf Club where he and Joan are members.
Surviving are his wife of 60 years, Joan Hebert; six children, Richard (Mary Beth) of W. Fenwick Island, DE, Paul (Lilla) of London, England, Claire Hebert Clurman (Andrew) of Boulder, CO, Robert (Paige) of Reisterstown, MD, Edward (Sarah) of So. Berwick, ME and James (Carty) of Stevenson, MD; eighteen grandchildren; and his sister Gail Duffill of Delray Beach, FL.
Services will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Vero Beach, FL on Saturday June 2nd at 11:00 AM. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Mr. Hebert’s memory to either Xavier High School, 30 W. 16th St., New York, NY 10011, or the Gifford Youth Orchestra, PO Box 691166, Vero Beach, FL 32969, 772-213-3007, http://gyotigers.org/.
Ronald Albert Kelly of New Canaan, CT, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2018 at his home; he was 90-years-old.
Born in Baltimore, MD on May 8, 1928, he was the son of John A. and Helen P. Kelly. He was raised in Stamford, CT with his twin brother Donald. Together, they attended Wooster School in Danbury, CT. While there, Ron won many sports awards including being inducted in the Wooster School Sports Hall of Fame in 2014. Ron went on to attend Brown University where he was a member of the baseball and football programs.
Upon leaving Brown University in 1948, he joined his father to run the Ford dealership, Stamford Motors, Inc. in Stamford, CT. After a fire destroyed the original building, Ron moved the dealership to Magee Avenue in the early 1970s, where it became one of the largest Ford dealerships in Connecticut for the next 38 years. He also owned a Nissan franchise in Stamford.
Ron loved to play golf, a passion he pursued throughout his life and was a member of the Woodway Country Club of Darien, CT where he held the old course amateur record of 66, which was retired in 2001.
Ron had strong ties to the Stamford Rehabilitation Center. He was also a longtime member of the Stamford Rotary Club and The Stanwich Congressional Church in Greenwich, CT.
Ron is survived by his wife Linda Ellis Kelly, his son David C. Kelly and his wife Michele Kelly and his daughter Donna Kelly Love. He is also survived by his three grandchildren, Kelly A. Love, David C. Kelly Jr. and Crispin E. Love Jr.
A Memorial service will be held at The New Canaan Congregational Church on June 2, 2018 at 11:00 a.m.
Mary J. Hoffmann, a former resident of New Canaan, passed away at age 86 on May 3 at Oak Knoll Healthcare Center in Framingham, MA.
Mary Jordan was born on March 29, 1932 in Queens, New York. After graduating Magna Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Queens College, she worked on Madison Avenue for an advertising agency as a statistician before meeting and marrying Arthur K. Hoffmann and moving to New Haven, where Art was a postdoctoral fellow at Yale University. Following a brief stint on the west coast, the couple moved back to Connecticut, where they eventually settled in New Canaan in 1964.
Mary was a math teacher who taught at several area schools including The Long Ridge School in Stamford and Rosemary Hall in Greenwich, before spending many years as chair of the mathematics department at Low Heywood Thomas School (later King Low Heywood Thomas) in Stamford. Mary was a passionate advocate for her students and was beloved by the school community. She retired in 1986 and moved with her husband Art to Bethesda, MD and, later, to Framingham, MA to spend time with her children and grandchildren.
Mary was also a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, roles that were central to her life and, in turn, to those fortunate enough to be a part of her extended family. She was predeceased by her husband, who died in 2015. She is survived by her two children, Dr. Stephen A. Hoffmann of Framingham, MA and Elise J. Hoffmann of Chevy Chase, MD, and four grandchildren, Chris and Alex Hoffmann and Sam and Jake Lewis. Her older brother John Jordan lives in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.
A family celebration of Mary’s life will be held at a later date.
Phyllis Ann Lapolla Walsh, 92, of Naples, Florida, formerly of New Canaan, CT peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, March 14, 2018 after a brief struggle with cancer.
A Memorial Mass will be held in her honor at St. Aloysius Church, 21 Cherry Street, New Canaan, CT at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 9th, 2018. She will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Donald and son Donald Jr. at Lakeview Cemetery, 352 Main Street, New Canaan following the Mass.
Phyllis Ann Lapolla was born in New Canaan, CT on January 30, 1926, the daughter of the late Charles Lapolla Sr. and Teresina Venezia. She had three brothers, the late Louis Lapolla, Charles Lapolla Jr. and John Lapolla, also of New Canaan. She was married to Donald F. Walsh on January 22, 1949 at St. Aloysius Church in New Canaan. After 47 years of a beautiful marriage, her husband Donald preceded her in death Oct. 9th, 1996.
Together they lovingly raised a wonderful family of seven children, Patricia Ammerman and Timothy Walsh of Raleigh, NC, Jacqueline Steigleman of Sherman, CT, Teresa Banks, Elizabeth Williams and Lynn Hushion, all of Naples, FL, and a son the late Donald Walsh Jr. “Nina” was the beloved grandmother of ten grandchildren, two stepgrandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
A 1943 graduate of New Canaan High School, Phyllis went on to graduate from The Pennsylvania School of Horticulture for Women. Phyllis’ career spanned many decades. Together with her husband Donald they owned Ridgeway Flowers in Stamford, CT and Lapolla and Walsh Florist and Greenhouse in New Canaan, CT.
Her expertise and love of gardening brought great joy to her community, friends and family. She was an avid golfer and member of Silvermine Golf Club in New Canaan and Cypress Woods Golf and Country Club in Naples, FL. She was a devoted parishioner at St. Aloysius Church in New Canaan and St. Agnes Church in Naples. FL.
“You will go out with joy and be led forth in peace: the mountains and hills will burst out in song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.” Isaiah 55:12.
A reception will be held at the home of Jacqueline and Mark Steigleman, 16 Long River Road Sherman, Ct, 06784 following the service at Lakeview Cemetery.
Mario “Ben” Benedetto, age 91, of Norwalk, died peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Grace Lacko Benedetto.
Ben was born in New Canaan on September 20, 1926, the son of the late Louis and Josephine DeRosa Benedetto. He was a graduate of New Canaan High School where he starred in football and baseball and later being inducted into their Hall of Fame. Ben was also a U.S. Army veteran of WWII. After his service to his country Ben worked for many years as an estate manager in New Canaan.
He was an avid tennis and golf player and enjoyed sports in general. He wrote a sports column for the New Canaan Advertiser and wrote a book, “The Old Neighborhood,” which was published by the New Canaan Historical Society. He was very involved with his children and grandchildren growing up, was very competitive and had a great sense of humor.
Ben is also survived by his son Mario Benedetto, Jr. of Norwalk, his daughter Lisa Romano, her husband Jim and their children Christopher and Emma, daughter-in-law Janet and her children Dakota, Jessica and David, and many nieces and nephews. He was also predeceased by his son Jeffrey and his brothers Michael, Salvatore and Anthony.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 19, at 11 AM, at St. Matthew Church, 216 Scribner Ave., Norwalk. Burial will be private and there are no visiting hours. Donations in Ben’s name may be made to NBIA Disorders Assoc., 2082 Monaco Ct., El Cajon, CA 92019-4235 (www.nbiadisorders.org). To leave an online condolence please go to www.magnerfuneralhome.com.
Jane Mann Smart, formerly of Stamford, CT died peacefully Thursday, May 10, 2018 in Naples, FL with several family members at her side.
Jane was born in New Haven, CT on January 6, 1923 to Harold and Grace Richter of Beacon Falls, CT. A graduate of St. Mary’s Hospital Nursing School of Waterbury, CT Jane began her nursing career as an Ensign in the United States Navy in 1944, during WWII. Her first tour of duty was in the Brooklyn Naval Yard where she met and married her first husband, Cpl Edward H. Mann, USMC in 1945. Following their respective discharges the couple moved to CT to raise their family.
Widowed in 1963, Jane wed Herbert A. Smart of Greenwich, CT in 1966 and together they raised a blended family of 9 children. Jane’s career encompassed multiple disciplines as a Registered Nurse: Labor and Delivery and Emergency Room Care in Hospitals, Public Health in Florida and Occupational Nurse at Pitney Bowes in Connecticut. She retired to Naples, FL and spent time volunteering and visiting her extended family. Jane was a member of the Council of Catholic Nurses and a parishioner at St. Peter the Apostle Church of Naples where she continued her religious devotion until her passing.
Jane is predeceased by husbands Edward H. Mann and Herbert A. Smart; one sister, Laurian Andrews; her sons, Timothy Smart and Lawrence Mann; her son-in-law Patrick Casey and her grandson, Jeffrey Mann.
She is survived by three sons: Brian Mann of OR, Harold Mann of OR and Michael Mann of FL; four daughters: Sheila (Smart) Nehring of FL, Linda (Mann) Casey of FL, Margaret (Smart) Sylvester of MA and Sarah (Mann) Burke of New Canaan, CT. In addition Jane is survived by 19 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.
A wake will be held on Monday, May 21, 2018 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the Edward Lawrence Funeral Home, 2119 Post Road, Darien, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday May 22, 2018 at 10:00 AM at St John R.C. Church, 1986 Post Road, Darien, CT. Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery in New Canaan with full military honors.
William (Bill) Leo Mulreed, 90, husband of the late Vincenza (Vinnie) Mulreed, passed away on April 6, 2018.Bill was born in Stamford, CT on February 7, 1928 to the late Leo and Edith Greene Mulreed.
Bill attended Stamford High School, graduating in 1946.He married Vincenza (Vinnie) Vozzo on April 30, 1949.In 1950 he purchased property in New Canaan.Bill spent the next five years building the house that they would raise their children in.Bill and Vinnie lived in their home for 60 years.
Bill spent 20 years of his career with John Hancock Life Insurance.He was also an entrepreneur who owned rental properties, a pet store, and a Dairy Queen.He always had a project he was working on.
Bill was an avid outdoorsman.He loved hunting, boating, fishing, and scuba diving.To pursue his interests he traveled within and outside of the US.His favorite spots were Montana to hunt and Belize to scuba dive. Bill was lifetime member and a former Commodore of the Ponus Yacht Club in Stamford, CT.
Bill’s favorite place to be was at the cabin he built in New Hampshire. The cabin is still enjoyed by his family today. His passed his love of the outdoors on to to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Bill is survived by his son William and wife Cris Ann of Wilton, his daughters Joann Nelson of Fairfield, and Pam Krause and husband John of Newtown.He is also survived by 7 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, his sister Lorraine Pucci, and several nieces and nephews.He was predeceased by his wife Vinnie, his parents, and his sisters Claire and Barbara (Bobby).
A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30AM on June 2, 2018 at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Wilton CT.Reception to follow in the church hall.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his name to CT. Fund for the Environment (Save the Sound), 900 Chapel Street, Suite 2202, New Haven, CT.06510 or Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 359 Spring Hill Road, Monroe, CT. 06468. Arrangements are in the care of Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk. Please visit www.collinsfh.com to leave condolences.
Dr. David S. Brown died peacefully on May 18 with Charlotte, his loving wife of 74 years by his side. David is remembered as an exemplar of strength and support for his family and countless others.
He was born in Chicago April 2, 1920. He grew up in New Jersey during the depression yet emerged to achieve distinction as a physician and civic leader as well as a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
David graduated from Antioch College and Cornell Medical School where he met and married Charlotte Rush. The couple went on to eminent medical careers at home in New Canaan, CT and abroad, including Haiti and numerous countries in Africa. Their aim was to help others. However it is also important to assert that the Browns were avid adventurers, intent on living life fully and instilling this same spirit in their children.
David Brown was a renaissance man. He was an “old fashioned” doctor who made house calls and was on-call 24/7, providing his patients with keen diagnostic skills, a caring ear and lasting friendship. He was a talented craftsman, gardener, sailor, tennis player, ice skater, musician and outdoors man who revelled in the natural world. With endless vigor he could tend to patients, plant his garden, build stone walls and fine furniture, write poetry and even make time to practice the violin. He approached all challenges with enthusiasm, quiet patience and a memorable sense of humor. Let’s not forget his playing the tuba in the annual Memorial Day parades and carol sings in New Canaan and the Rockefeller Center’s Tuba Fests in New York, where as its oldest member David was introduced over the loudspeaker as the Vice-President of the New Canaan Town Band!
Politically progressive, his principles were born of kindness and the belief in justice for everyone. His convictions were often confirmed by expecting and getting the best that people have to offer. David strove to be an example with the belief that if he maintained standards for himself others would rise to the occasion. He certainly never dwelled on disappointment.
He had great powers of observation and in conversation and could be counted on to contribute unique perspectives. His whimsy, philosophical reflections and clever humor were evident in his poems and writings on a wide range of topics. Family adventures and exploits and the human condition were popular subjects.
He was extremely proud of his family and reveled in being a great-grandfather. His remarkable presence and compassion will be missed. He loved his family and extended this sentiment to everyone he met. He is survived by Charlotte Brown; his son Rush and daughter-in-law Allison of Portland, ME; his daughters Katherine and Isabel Brown of Providence, RI and Anne Brown of Danielson, CT; his grandchildren Sarah and Timothy Bland and Sydney and Neil Johnson of Glasgow, Scotland, and two great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will take place in New Canaan CT at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to ANERA (www.anera.org) and the New Canaan Presbyterian Church.
Agnes Conover passed away at her home in Norwalk, CT on April 16, 2018, at the age of 92.
Edward “Ed” Louis Maier, age 87, of Punta Gorda, Florida, formerly of New Canaan, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 22, 2018, at his Punta Gorda residence.
