John George Petti, Jr.

John George Petti, Jr. passed away at his home in Westport on May 3, 2017, just shy of his 90th birthday. Born and raised in the Bronx, John was the star quarterback of his high school football team, before joining the Navy and serving as a medic during World War II. After the war, he returned home to complete his education and attend New York University. At that time, a mutual friend introduced him to Inez, the love of his life. The couple married in 1949 and the romance continued for over 50 years, until her death in 2001.

John was an extremely devoted husband and father whose mission was to care and provide for his family. Born into a family of modest means, John set out to succeed in business and amply accomplished that goal. Determined and forceful, John joined the Sperry Rand Corporation in the 1950s and quickly rose through the ranks. As John’s career with the corporation advanced, the family moved from the Bronx to Westport, CT to Milan, Italy, and then to Frankfurt, Germany. The family spent 12 happy and exciting years overseas before returning to the United States in 1974, once again settling in Westport. John completed his successful business career in 1990 as an executive with MBI Inc.

John leaves behind his sister, Marie Clancy of Los Angeles, CA; his two children, Lisa Calvocoressi of New Haven CT, and John Petti III and his wife Courtney of Fairfield CT; his dear friend Joy Peshkin of Weston CT; his former son-in-law, Thomas Calvocoressi of Berlin CT; and eleven grandchildren, two nieces, and one nephew. In addition to his wife Inez, John was predeceased by his brother, Michael, and sister, Settimia. The family is deeply indebted to Vee, Rosa, and Norma. The outstanding care they provided enabled John to remain at home during his illness, in accordance with his wishes.

In addition to his work and family, John’s great passion was tennis, a sport he discovered in his 30s. A superior athlete, John quickly mastered the game and became a skilled doubles player. As a child growing up in the Bronx, John did not have the opportunity to play the sport. To support youth tennis and John’s love of the game, contributions may be made to New York Junior Tennis and Learning that has brought tennis to young people in the City’s five boroughs for the past 45 years, 58-12 Queens Boulevard #1, Woodside, NY 11377. The family will hold a private service that will include interment at Willowbrook Cemetery, with military honors. To sign John’s online register, please visit LeskoPolkeFuneralHome.com.

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Fran Goldstein and Bob Gardner work the polls at a 2012 primary in Weston. — Forum file photo

There will be a memorial service for Robert  “Bob” Gardner on Sunday, May 21, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Norfield Grange, 12 Goodhill Road.

Bob died after a long illness on April 1, 2017, at the Carolton Hospital in Fairfield. He was 79.

The public is invited to attend and share their thoughts about Gardner and his service to the Weston community. Refreshments will be served.

In honor of his volunteer work, the Weston Democratic Town Committee has created the Bob Gardner Lifetime Achievement award. The committee has announced that Howard Aibel will be the first recipient of the award. The award will be presented in June.

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Ernest Z. Bower

Ernest Z. Bower III died from complications from pneumonia near his home in Lilburn, Ga., on May 22. He was 75.

He was the son and grandson of doctors who served patients in the northeastern United States. His mother, Eleanor Cornell White Bower, was an early feminist and professor of genetics and biology. His stepfather, Woodrow Wilson White, was a professor of mathematics and engineering.

Bower was born in Scranton, Pa., and grew up in nearby Clarks Summit. He was the oldest of three children. He attended Colgate University, where he earned bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and English. He then attended Jefferson Medical School in Philadelphia.

He married Gail Gardner in 1963 and together they had four sons.

Bower worked for several companies, including the International Salt Co. and Time Inc. He eventually created his own firm, The Bower Group Inc., specializing in mergers and acquisitions in Europe and the United States.

Bower and his first wife divorced and he married Inge Dittmann. They lived in Pennsylvania, the Netherlands and ultimately Georgia.

Bower was known for his intellect, interest in international finance, and rapier wit. He was a voracious reader and deep thinker.

He is survived by his wife, Inge Dittmann Bower, and sons from his first marriage, Ernest Z. Bower IV (Samantha), Jay R. Bower (Sarah), and Peter C. Bower, and stepson Ralph Touch (Lisa). He was predeceased by his son Eric R. Bower. He is also survived by his eight grandchildren, Charles, Chloe, Haley, Kate, Hugh, Tyler, Shane, and Spencer, and his sister, Dr. Lisa Bower.

The family has organized a private memorial service for Saturday, May 27, and requests that friends and family make a donation in his name to Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) at msf.org, and share memories, stories or good wishes of Ernest Bower to his son at ezbower4@gmail.com.

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Donald R. Jackson

Donald R. Jackson, 99 years old, of Hilton Head Island, died June 2, 2017 at his home in Sea Pines.

Don was born March 15, 1918 in Louisville, KY, and was the son of the late Rose Riehl Jackson and Harry A. Jackson. He grew up in Baltimore, MD and graduated from the University of Baltimore. Don served in the Army Air Corps during WWII as a flight instructor and as a fighter pilot in the Pacific arena.

Don was treasurer of Olin Corporation and he and his late wife, Elizabeth N. (Lou) Jackson, raised their four daughters in Weston, CT, before retiring to Hilton Head Island in 1979. He was a member of Sea Pines Country Club and played both tennis and golf well into his 90’s where his strategy of “piddle, piddle, down the middle” kept him in close competition with his fellow players. Don was an avid bridge player and did not hesitate to help his partners improve. He loved the music of the big band swing era and enjoyed singing with the Hilton Head Barbershoppers.

Don is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law: Linda L. Jackson and John J. O’Toole of Hilton Head Island; Donna and Anthony Ferrantello of Croton-on-the-Hudson, NY; Kathy A. Jackson of Hilton Head Island; Laura J. and Jonathan Davis of Shelton, CT; five grandchildren: Jennifer J. O’Toole, Timothy B. O’Toole, Michaela E. Visconti, Carly J. Davis, Simone M. Ferrantello; and his great-granddaughter Charlotte K. Visconti.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Sea Pines Country Club on Sunday, June 11th, at 3:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association, 135 Parkinson Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10305.

Arrangements by The Island Funeral Home and Crematory. theislandfuneralhome.com

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Devon Joan Pfeifer of Weston, Connecticut passed away peacefully at her home on June 16, 2017, at the age of 60. Daughter of John William Cunningham and Virginia Carole Cunningham, Devon was born in Stamford, Connecticut on November 5, 1956.

Throughout her life, Devon spread hope and optimism, and loved her children, Maevereen Emilia Pfeifer of New York, New York, and Conor John Pfeifer of Norwalk, Connecticut, above all else. She also considered her two nieces Makena Elizabeth Cunningham of New York, New York, and Geneva Leigh Cunningham of Newtown, Connecticut to be daughters as well and they were among the loves of her life.

Devon was a worker and a fighter, and blazed her own trail through life. Her father John was a leader in the local labor movement. Although she worked for her father’s union for a time, Devon was able to make a true legacy for herself based on compassion and purpose. In all whom she met, and especially in her kids, Devon instilled a sense of duty to protect the vulnerable and to fight constantly for freedom and equality.

Devon especially cared for children and those who are vulnerable in our world. She proudly supported local causes, including reading programs in the Bridgeport Public Schools, the Bridgeport public library, Charity: Water, the Kennedy Center of Trumbull, CT, and Triangle Community Center — supporting them with donations when she could afford it, and countless hours as a volunteer.

Devon worked at Brown Barn Books of Weston, Pictures of Record of Weston, John C. Hammerslough, LLC of Weston, Carpenters Local 210, formerly of Norwalk, Setlow, Allie Industries, and in many local, statewide, and national elections.

Devon was an activist and a rebel. She was deeply involved in local and state politics, cultivating, encouraging, and supporting progressive candidates for public office. Devon often was a main driving force behind other people’s achievements, yet she never sought the spotlight for herself.

Devon was recognized for her service in the local political world, especially for her terms as Chair of the Weston and Fairfield Democratic Town Committees, and member of the Weston Board of Education. Devon received awards from the State Democratic Party of Connecticut, the Silver Donkey Award from the Democratic Women of Westport, and many other local awards — official and tongue-in-cheek.

Devon’s sense of humor, laugh, and optimism were well-known and widely appreciated. They helped her through many crises, and surely helped all those around her.

Devon is survived by her mother, Virginia, her two beloved children: Conor and Maevereen and her siblings: Kimberley Anne Cunningham of Redding, Connecticut, William Ward Cunningham of Kula, Hawaii, John Parsons Cunningham of Newtown, Connecticut, Caroline Leigh Cunningham of Washington, District of Columbia, and Diana Kathleen Gelston of Lexington, Massachusetts.

A celebration of life service will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Westport, on Saturday, June 24 at 7:00 p.m., followed by an Irish wake at her home. The funeral home is Baker Funeral Home, South Norwalk, CT 203-857-4155.

In lieu of flowers, Devon’s children request that donations be made in Devon’s memory to Kids in Crisis of Greenwich, CT, and Triangle Community Center of Norwalk, CT.

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Thomas Aquila

Tom A. Aquila, 93 of Weston, CT died peacefully on June 24, 2017. Born in New Haven, CT on June 11, 1924 son of the late Thomas Aquila and Ann Salvati Aquila.

He grew up with three siblings on Frank St in New Haven marrying Louise Cusano, a marriage of 62 years. They raised two children in North Haven and Weston. He became a beloved mentor to his many nieces, nephews, in-laws, friends and neighbors.

Tom graduated from Commercial High School in 1942 and was awarded the Purple Heart and Silver Star, serving as a sergeant in the 36th Calvary Squadron during World War II. After the war, he earned a B.S. degree from Central Connecticut State University, an M.A. from New York University and a Ph.D. from the University of Connecticut.

Reflecting on the consequences of war on children of all countries, he decided not to join the world of business, but to devote his life work to children, the able, the average, the slow and the disadvantaged.

On completion of his studies, he taught science at the North Haven Elementary School. Three years later he was appointed Assistant Principal for the town’s new high school.

Two years later, he was promoted to Principal and served seven years before accepting an invitation to become Superintendent of Schools in Weston, CT. A post he held for twenty-two years.

Other roles included Chair of the Connecticut Higher Board of Education, President of the School Development Council for New England, The National Association of Christians and Jews, United States Senate Task Force for Navajo Indian Affairs, and consultant to the Fromson Foundation for the Advancement of Elementary and Secondary Education in Connecticut inner cities.

He is survived by two children, Patricia Aquila of Milford, David Aquila of Rochester, NY, daughter in law, Kimberly Christy Aquila and his two grandchildren, Dr. Amy Shepard, (Patrick Sheppard) a physical therapist in Laramie, Wyoming and Kristy Heffernan, (Daniel Heffernan) a social worker in Charlotte, N.C.

Friends and acquaintances are welcome to celebrate Tom’s life at a mass of Christian burial at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Weston, CT on Friday, June 30 at 10 a.m. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations maybe made to The Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation or any other charity of your choice.

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Robert A. Fiedler, 87, of Bonita Springs, FL and Portsmouth, RI, died on Friday, July 7, 2017 at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, RI. Robert was born January 29, 1930 in Hastings -On-Hudson, NY, the son of the late Arthur S. and Nina (Frisbee) Fiedler.

Robert graduated from Lafayette College in Easton, PA and began a long career as a Chemical Engineer working for Dorr Oliver. During the Korean War, he served in the US Army in an Intelligence Division.

He and his family lived for many years in Weston, CT where he was an active member of Norfield Church, the church choir, a member of the Kiwanis, and a volunteer with AmeriCares and Habitat For Humanity. He enjoyed many years of traveling and attending Roads Scholar classes.

Following his retirement, he and his wife Jan moved to Bonita Springs, FL where he delivered meals for Meals on Wheels, sang with the First Presbyterian Church choir, and volunteered at the local hospital. Bob and Jan have enjoyed summers in Portsmouth throughout their life together, travelling, hiking and spending time outdoors.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Janice (Phillips) Fiedler of Bonita Springs, FL and Portsmouth, and two daughters: Janet French of Millstone, NJ and Lee Fiedler of Bonita Springs, FL. He also leaves a grandson Brian French and a sister Doris Gilbert and her husband David of Cockeysville, MD., and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services at this time will be private, a memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs, 9751 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, FL, 34135

Online tribute at memorialfuneralhome.com

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Lois Harmon Alcosser of Wilton, CT, passed away July 8, 2017 surrounded by her family.

Lois was born in New York, NY., a daughter of the late Bertha and Harry Harmon, and was predeceased by her sister Betty Harmon and husband Albert Alcosser.

She is the mother of Melinda Alcosser and her husband Patrick Smith Guilford, CT and Andy Alcosser and his wife Rachel of Fairfield, CT. She will be forever loved and adored by her grandchildren Lucy and Jody Smith and Rebecca and Sam Alcosser.

Lois grew up in New York and later moved to Connecticut. A graduate of Music and Art High School and Barnard College, Lois had a successful career as a copywriter for many prominent New York advertising agencies including Doyle Dane Berback, Altman Stoller Weiss and Gray Advertising.

Following her full time career, Lois continued to work and write for many local organizations including the Council of Churches and Synagogues and The Wilton Bulletin where she was a frequent contributor. Her passion for writing endured all her life. Lois loved to live, learn and be active; which is how she will be forever remembered.

Services were held on July 11, 2017 at The Abraham L. Green and Son Funeral Home of Fairfield, with interment following at Temple Israel Cemetery in Norwalk. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Heifer International Foundation.

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Matthew Noonan J.D. of Silverthorne, Colorado passed away unexpectedly on July 24, 2017.

He is survived by his parents, Dr. Charles and Enia Noonan of Weston, and his sister, Allegra Ausilia Noonan J.D. of Manhattan, N.Y.

Matthew was raised in Weston, graduating from Weston High School in 2006. He was a competitive swimmer, debater, cross-county runner during those school years winning several awards.

He attended Tulane University graduating in 2010 with a degree in Business Administration. He also met the love of his life, Sarah Mintz, while enrolled there. He then completed his law school education at Northeastern University in Boston graduating in 2015.

He was most proud of his work with the Deep Water Horizon settlements to Louisiana residents. He was a passionate advocate for environmental issues.

An avid outdoorsman, he mountain climbed in the Dolomites on the famed “Via Ferrata”, sailed Lago di Garda, skied the mountains of New England and Colorado, and kayaked the bayous of Louisiana.

He recently returned to Colorado to practice law and climb the Rocky Mountains that he loved.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday Aug. 12 at 1 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi in Weston.

“He is hiking to the summit, and the people who love him will meet him again just beyond the next rise.”

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Barbara Jane Oliver, 89, passed away on Friday July 28 at North Naples Hospital in the company of those who loved her dearly. Born to Steven Scrivani and Katherine (Clark) Scrivani in Oakland, CA on June 20th 1928, Barbara was also the beloved wife of 67 years to Ronald H. Oliver.

Barbara Oliver

She attended San Jose State college where she met her husband Ronald, the love of her life and her best friend.

She married Ronald on Aug. 20, 1950 and their adventure together would later take them cross country to the town of Weston, Conn. where they spent the majority of their time working and raising a family together.

Although she held a myriad of jobs over the years, Barbara found her real passion as a teacher’s aide in the Westport, Conn. school system.

She enjoyed playing tennis and golf at Aspetuck Country Club where they were members for several years. She loved skiing, going to the beach and getting together with friends.

Ron and Barbara became Florida residents several years ago after spending many years wintering in a couple different homes in the Naples area.

Barbara made many friends in Florida and was a member of Audubon Country Club for a number of years.

Earlier this year they sold their Connecticut home on the water and became full time residents at their home in Naples.

Being around family delighted Barbara. Whether it was just simply dropping by for a swim with Grandma or a birthday or holiday celebration, she was central in creating a life time of memories that her family will forever treasure.

She is survived by her three daughters Debbie, Karen and Julia, seven grandchildren from East coast to West coast, all who attended her in her final days.

In addition she is survived by her beloved sister Dottie and many wonderful nieces and nephews all on the West Coast. She also held the proud title of great grandmother to six lucky great grandchildren.

A Celebration of Barbara’s life will be held in both Connecticut and California for family and friends.

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Rhonda Dawn (Gentit) Smith, 58, of Southbury Connecticut, passed away peacefully with her family and friends at her side on Monday, August 14, 2017.

Rhonda was born on August 3, 1959 in Lawrenceville, Illinois to William and Shirley Gentit. She graduated from Weston High School in 1977 and went on to work in the accounting department at Meta Group in Danbury, CT; eventually becoming the Vice President of Contracts prior to her retirement.

Rhonda bravely battled lung cancer for 3 years. She participated in several clinical drug trials and research studies during her fight that will hopefully help lead to a cure in the near future.

Rhonda was a beloved wife, daughter, mother and friend. She is survived by her husband of 17 years Craig Smith; her children Jessica Doyle, Kristen Smith, Michael Smith, Samantha (Smith) Snow and son-in-law Irv Snow; her parents William and Shirley Gentit; her sister Deborah Verno; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Mark and Vicky Smith, Sharon and Chris Finik, and Ian Smith; her nieces and nephews Rob Gentit, Megan and Cooper Davidson, Chelsea Clyde, Paige Smith and Taylor Smith; and her furry best buddies Oreo and Astro.

A celebration of Rhonda’s life will take place on Thursday, August 17 at the Lyons Plains Fire House on Lyons Plains Road in Weston from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m..

In lieu of flowers, Rhonda asked that donations be made to the American Lung Association, American Cancer Society or the ASPCA.

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After Aug. 31, 2017, all obituaries and death notices in our papers and on our websites are published for a fee. This information will be published exactly as provided by the funeral home or family. The obituaries can include an optional photo insertion. Death notices do not include a photo.

The cost for a death notice is $50 for each newspaper and can be up to 350 characters. A 2,500-character obituary with an optional photo costs $250 for each newspaper. An obituary of up to 5,000 characters with an optional photo is $500 for each newspaper.

Obits may be submitted via hersamsecure.com/obit.

Questions can be directed to Sharon Cappetta at scappetta@hersamacorn.com.

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Dean K. Hartman

Dean K. Hartman, 90, of Weston, CT, died peacefully on July 19, 2017.

Born in Selah, WA on April 16, 1927 he was the oldest of three sons to the late George and Ruie (Buckley) Hartman. In 2010, Dean moved from Kentfield, CA, to Weston to live with his son’s family after his wife of 57 years, Eleanor (Fraser) Hartman, died.

Dean is survived by his youngest brother Dwight and his wife Colleen, of Gig Harbor, WA; his son, John Douglas Hartman and his wife, Diane and their two children, John and Juliana of Weston, CT; his daughter from his first wife, Pamela (Terry) Edelbach, of Puyallup, WA, their two children Kimberly (Chad) Perry, Bill (April) Rattray and five great-grandchildren, Brandon, Tanner, Kaitlin, Maddin and Addison.

Growing up in Washington’s Yakima Valley Dean enjoyed sports, especially tennis, played the piano in a dance band and attended the University of Washington, before enlisting in the US Navy in 1944 and serving in the medical corps. Dean worked at Equifax corporation for over 40 years, eventually leading the west coast medical insurance claims business.

In his retirement, Dean adored his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. While living in California he built wooden trains and other toys, and children from the neighborhood would come and watch him in his garage workshop create “Toys By Grandpa Dean.” Upon arriving in Weston, Dean was a daily visitor at the Weston Senior Activities Center, especially enjoying all his new friends and programs, and of course his annual role as Santa and bringing homemade Christmas Bark to his friends.

Friends and acquaintances are welcome to celebrate Dean’s life at a memorial service at Norfield Congregational Church, Weston, CT on Saturday, September 16 at 1 p.m.

The family ask that in lieu of flowers, friends wishing to donate in Dean’s name make any donations to the Weston Senior Activities Center. To donate, please make checks payable to the Weston Senior Activities Center and mail to: P.O. Box 1007, Weston, CT 06883.

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The Rev. Paulette Thompson-Clinton, wife of Marc Clinton, mother of Amari Clinton, passed away on Sept. 5.

A Tribute Service will be held on Friday, Sept. 15, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Community Baptist Church, 143 Shelton Ave., New Haven. A Homegoing Celebration of Life Service is Saturday, Sept. 16, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Trinity Church on the Green, 230 Temple St., New Haven.

Memorial contributions: P. Clinton Memorial Fund, gofundme.com/marc-amari.

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Frederick W. Schneider

Mr. Frederick W. Schneider, 79, of Weston, CT and husband of Shirley (Drake) Schneider passed away on Wednesday September 20, 2017 at Norwalk Hospital.

Frederick was born in New York City on January 20, 1938 and was the son of the late Frederick and Gladys Schneider.

He graduated Cornell University in 1961 with a Masters degree in Business Administration. Frederick went on to work for Exxon for thirty five years in New York, Libya, Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia. Frederick was active in many Weston organizations, he was a former Kiwanis Club President in 2003, Club Secretary and a member of the Board of Directors. He was on the Norfield Church Trustees and on the church Landscape Committee and the Norfield Memorial Garden committee. he was on the Weston RTC Committee and was active in The Boy Scouts of America.

Frederick was awarded the Weston Citizen of the Year in 2010. He was known for his little green truck which could be seen helping out all over town, and for his extensive Christmas tree light display every Holiday Season. He will be greatly missed by his family and the Weston community

In addition to his wife Shirley of 56 years Frederick is survived by one son: Bill and his wife Theresa, one daughter: Beth and her husband Jim, and six grandchildren: Kayleigh, Laura, William, Ben, Amy and Emma.

Friends are invited to attend a funeral on Sunday October 1, 2017 at 12:00 PM in the Norfield Congregational Church 64 Norfield Road Weston, CT 06883. Contributions in memory of Frederick in lieu of flowers may be made to either the Norfield Congregational Church or the Weston Kiwanis Foundation 154 Steep Hill Road Weston, CT 06883. The Harding Funeral Home in Westport, CT is assisting the family with the arrangements. Condolences for the Schneider family may be left on line at www.hardingfuneral.com.

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Wendy Lynne de Monchaux

Wendy Lynne de Monchaux passed away unexpectedly on September 22, 2017 from complications following a seizure. She was surrounded by family and her favorite music as she went.

Though she is most remembered as a loving, working mother, Wendy was a gardener, pet lover, storyteller, perfectionist, Wall Street powerhouse, and an all around force to be reckoned with.

Wendy was born to Lucy Jo Jackson and Frank Emilie de Monchaux in Los Angeles, on November 3, 1959. She was raised in Mound, Minnesota where she was a cheerleader and avid student, and graduated from Mound Westonka High School In 1977. She went on to attend Northwestern University, majoring in Economics (’81) and earned her MBA from the University of Chicago in 1986.

After a courtship that began with a blind date in Chicago, Wendy married David MacWilliams in 1988, and he followed her to the east coast where she would go on to pursue her dreams on Wall Street. Her tenacity and grit caught the attention of Bear Stearns, where Wendy was chosen as the skilled hand to lead the firm into the profitable but risky derivatives business. She would ultimately rise to become the sole female representative on the Board of Directors of Bear Stearns in 1996, and after years as a senior managing director in trading and derivatives, she retired in 2008.

Wendy and her husband David raised their three children, Sarah, Kevin and Rachel in Weston, Connecticut. In the years after she retired to become a stay at home mom, Wendy actively participated in stewardship at Norfield Congregational Church, coached Aspetuck Wildcats Cheerleading, and volunteered for hair and makeup for the Company productions at the high school — lending a helping hand wherever she could. She most enjoyed spending summers in Michigan, watching her children succeed, and maintaining her post as “the boss” of her household in Weston.

Wendy was a passionate spirit who loved fiercely and lived life to every extreme, pushing herself and everyone around her to be as excellent as she believed they could be. Her boundless love and devotion and feisty personality made her both the backbone of her family, and the source of most of its laughter. Her memory lives on in the hearts of those she loved, and the sheer force of her personality will be remembered by everyone she encountered.

She is survived by her husband David MacWilliams, and their three children, Sarah, Kevin and Rachel, as well as her sister Leslie and her three children, Julian, David and Evan, her mother Lucy Jo, and a large family tree of extended relatives by whom she will be sorely missed.

A memorial service will be held at Norfield Congregational Church, 64 Norfield Road, Weston on Friday, September 29, 2017 at 1 p.m. Reception to follow.

Harding Funeral Home, Westport, handled arrangements.

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Dan Stroetzel

Don Stroetzel, a former Redding resident who passed away on Aug. 31 at the age of 95, was one of the most influential people in the development of Georgetown, according to Ralph Bosch, who worked with him in founding the Georgetown Village Restoration Inc. (GVRI) — a nonprofit community organization whose primary mission is to develop Georgetown’s commercial district.

Bosch said that Stroetzel, who lived in Redding since 1973, was a member of the Georgetown Restoration Committee, a regular participant in Georgetown Day and active in all GVRI-related events — “whether it was a holiday party or a summer picnic,” said Bosch, a Trumbull resident.

He said Stroetzel would attend all meetings relating to Georgetown, speak up when he thought it was important, and share information when he thought it was relevant.

According to Bosch, who owns several businesses in Georgetown, including Auburn Landing and Overbrook Associates, Stroetzel always loved Georgetown.

“He thought that it is cute and funky and a nice little commercial district that needed to be improved upon,” Bosch said. “He understood that Georgetown could be its own entity apart from the towns that made it up” — which are Redding, Weston, Wilton and Ridgefield.

Bosch added that Stroetzel was also an advocate for anything that affected the sewer district in Georgetown and involved the revitalization of the Gilbert & Bennett Wire Mill.

Bosch said Stroetzel was a strong supporter of the Streetscape plan that was implemented in Georgetown about 10 years ago.

“He was instrumental in getting the streets of Georgetown dressed up — adding sidewalks, crosswalks, street lamps and getting some of the intersection work done,” Bosch said.

Bosch said what made Stroetzel particularly special was that — unlike a business or property owner —  “he had no vested interest in Georgetown other than the fact that he saw the potential development of a commercial district that would be beneficial to the residents of Redding and the other towns that comprised the greater Georgetown area.”

Positive outlook

John Murren, owner of Murren Kane Construction in Georgetown and president of GVRI, said Stroetzel was very self-confident — a quality of which others took note.

“I have known him for years. He was very positive and assured in his dealings with the town of Redding,” said Murren, of Ridgefield.

“His clear and precise thinking was admired by all who worked with him,” Murren added. “Don had a ready smile and participated in all our celebrations. He will be missed.”

Bringing people together

Redding resident Robert Dean, who was assistant chairmen of the Redding Planning Commission, worked with Stroetzel for more than 25 years and said Stroetzel was one of a kind.

“He was a person who was valuable not only because he had good ideas and was good at working on a team but was also a genuinely nice person who respected those around him,” Dean said. “He was a model in that way.”

“Don was one of those people who could bring people together and have them walk away having accomplished something and still be friends — this is not just a skill, it’s an outlook,” he added.

Dean recalled many times when the Planning Commission was caught up in differing viewpoints. “Don was one of those people who could get a respectful discussion, take the necessary compromises and get the job done,” Dean said.

Dean called Stroetzel a tribute to the building of relationships. “He is a person who others should look at as a model.”

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Matthew Thomas Ogiba, age 69, of Weston, CT, died peacefully at Norwalk Hospital on Friday, December 8. He was the loving husband for 37 years of Enid Hernandez Ogiba.

Matt was born in Stamford, CT on October 10, 1948, the son of the late Matthew Henry Ogiba and Alexandria Loretta Czujak Ogiba.

A longtime Weston resident, Matthew was an active member of the Weston Volunteer Fire Department as well as a coach for his children’s sports teams.

Growing up in the Springdale area of Stamford, Matt graduated from Fairfield Prep, followed by Scranton University for his undergrad and completed his M.B.A from UConn before entering a career in finance.

In addition to his wife, Matt is survived by 4 loving children, who will dearly miss him, Christian A. Ogiba, Matthew Brandon Ogiba, Elizabeth J.P. Ackerman and Kelly A.G. Ogiba.

Services will be held on Friday, December 15th, at 11:00 am, at St. Francis of Assisi in Weston. A Reception sponsored by the Weston Volunteer Fire Department to follow.

The Family asks Donations to the Weston Volunteer Fire Department are made in lieu of flowers and wishes to thank the continued support of the St. Francis of Assisi community.

Magner Funeral Home, Inc., 12 Mott Ave., Norwalk, handled arrangements.

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Elinore S. Palmer, a former resident of Wilton and Easton, passed peacefully on December 18, 2017 at the age of 97.

Elinore, with her husband Gerry and two daughters, moved to Belden Hill in Wilton in 1952 and were quickly immersed in community activities at St. Matthew’s Parish, the Wilton Garden Club and the Wilton Playshop. “Ellie,” as her friends knew her, brought style and magic to almost everything she touched. She was a natural, and could execute the most amazing interior transitions; staging a garden wedding scene in a church hall, and as easily reversing the assignment by transforming a school auditorium into an ecumenical church altar.

An enthusiastic gardener, she never met a plant she didn’t want to save and was early to embrace organic gardening and land conservation, both movements heralded by the Wilton Garden Club. She served on numerous Garden Club committees, and continued in an advisory capacity after she resigned her position as Club President when she moved to Easton in 1965. In 1994 she was honored as a Life Member of the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut and recognized again in 2005 for 50 years of service.

In Easton, Ellie continued her community involvement, serving as the Corresponding Secretary and a volunteer driver for the Easton Public Health and Nursing Association. The Palmer’s move to Easton fulfilled Ellie’s lifelong dream of “living on a farm.” She talked her husband Gerry into a house and barn on 35 acres on a high plateau of split-rail-framed meadows. You could see Long Island Sound from the second floor, but not another house in any direction. She filled the barn with horses and chickens, invited the neighboring farmer to graze his dairy cows, managed a small and highly productive orchard, took up apple cider making, raised over-sized organic vegetables and added a greenhouse to raise more exotic plant species. In the late 90’s she even hosted several polo matches on one of the fields.

A studio addition to the house allowed Ellie to try her hand, with equal success, at everything from water colors to clay, wood and marble sculpture and finally, arc-welding; a favorite. Her metal sculpture “Rooster” was exhibited in Massachusetts and later won first prize at the ’85 Wilton Arts Council Show. Always eager to try a new medium, Ellie was grateful for the mentoring of many local luminaries in the arts. She illustrated a children’s book, staged award-winning flower shows, designed and painted sets for the Wilton Playshop, studied Landscape Design at the Univ of MA, flower arranging in Tokyo, and art at the Silvermine School.

Elinore was predeceased by her husband Girard L. Palmer. She is survived by two daughters, Marsha P. Gossard with her husband Arthur Gossard in Santa Barbara, CA, and Lynne P. Boyd in Avon, Connecticut, five grandchildren, G. Christopher Gossard of Ventura, CA, James F. Boyd of Norwell, MA, Sue Gossard of Greenbrae, CA, Emily B. Hanlon of New Canaan, CT, Matthew C. Boyd of San Francisco and eight great-grandchildren. She leaves many wonderful friends.

Burial arrangements for the family are being made by Bouton Funeral Home in Georgetown. A memorial service is planned for the spring.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you make donations to The ALS Association in memory of her husband Gerry.

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The Reverend George R. Laedlein died on December 16, 2017. He was 93.

George was born on February 14, 1924, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

When George was 19, he and his friends watched a movie about the Canadian Navy in WWII and enlisted the next day, infuriating George’s parents. He joined the officers’ training program and served as an Ensign on the pocket carrier USS Kasaan Bay(CVE 69) until January 1945.

George was one of the first group of officers to work with the newly invented SONAR. For the rest of his life, his experiences during WWII were among his most powerful memories.

In 1948, George reconnected with a young woman whom he had met briefly at a Christian camp when they were in their teens. Jean Zirkman would become the love of his life. George and Jean were married in June of 1950. Jean passed in 2014.

After returning to the U.S., he attended Trinity College and Philadelphia Divinity School, earning a Masters of Divinity in 1950; he was ordained as an Episcopal the same year.

George served in many parishes, including St. Christopher’s in Linthecum, Maryland; St. Mary’s, Osterley, England; Emmanuel Episcopal, Weston, Connecticut;Emmanuel Church, Southern Pines, North Carolina; and St. Paul’s, Oswego, New York.

In Weston, CT, George was the rector of Emmanuel Episcopal Church from 1967 to 1976. He led a progressive Episcopal church and was fortunate to have an engaged and active congregation. He regularly held services with hymns composed by the congregation set to modern melodies. He also encouraged staging plays in the church, conducted a series of historical liturgical reconstructions in period dress, and gave sermons based on the rock Opera Jesus Christ Superstar.

After leaving Weston in 1976, George served as a rector in Southern Pines, North Carolina and in Owego, New York.

George was predeceased by Jean, his wife of 63 years. He is survived by his five children, Paul, Mary, John, Mark, and Margot, eleven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

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