491 High Street, Middletown, CT, 06457
Eloise Ann Salemi Carlone, age 88, died peacefully in her sleep on June 7, 2023 at Water’s Edge, Middletown. She was the only daughter to the late Teresa (Pagano) and Sebastian Salemi.
Eloise was a lifetime resident of Middletown having resided 72 years on Spring Street. She attended St. John’s School and in graduated Middletown High School in 1952. Eloise was briefly employed by the State of Connecticut.
Eloise later remained at home to raise her three daughters: Andrea, Richelle and Marcyanna (Linda) Carlone. Throughout the years, Eloise was dedicated to seeing her children grow into strong women all while taking care of her parents. Eloise sacrificed so much during her life and did more for everyone else then she ever could have done for herself. Later in life, Eloise suffered a stroke which decreased her ability to care for herself. It was at this time she resided with her daughter, Richelle. In addition to her children, she leaves to miss her, her “grandson” Ledion.
The family wishes to thank all her dedicated caregivers, the Staff at Water’s Edge, and Middlesex Hospice.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, June 13th at 10 a.m. in St. Sebastian Church. Burial will be in the family plot in St. Sebastian Cemetery, Middlefield. There are no calling hours. The Coughlin-Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High St, Middletown, is in charge of arrangements.
Anthony "Tony" W. D'Antonio, 75, of Middletown passed away on May 13 in Hartford. Tony was born on October 10, 1947 in Middletown and was the son of the late Anthony L. and Elsie B. (Rossitto) D'Antonio.
After Tony graduated from Middletown High School in 1967, he went on to fight in the Vietnam War and was a Veteran of the U.S. Army during which he received the Vietnam Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and the Bronze Star Medal, achieving the rank of Specialist of the 1st Infantry Division. In 1974, Tony began working at Grippo's Mobil in Durham and settled in Middletown while working there he formed many friendships and a lifelong bond and close relationship with his boss and good friend, Peter Grippo. He would remain an employee of Grippo's Mobil for 48 years.
In 2022, Tony retired and loved spending his time with his nephew, Mason, watching him play college and summer baseball. He also enjoyed spoiling his cat, CeCe. Tony loved to travel all over to baseball games, family outings, and going to see his nephew, Nick Neumann and niece Marissa over the years alongside his niece Michelle, nephew Mason, and special friend Philip Salonia. Tony was extremely proud of his nephews Nick and Mason and their accomplishments. Tony always said his happiest times were spent with Mason, Nick, Marissa, Michelle, Phil and two very dear friends, Linda and Angelo Passanissi. He was so happy every time his good friend Eddie Shackett would swing by.
Tony is survived by his sister Barbara Triblets (Corey) and Nancy Bordonaro (Michale) both of Portland, his brother Fred Rossitto (Joan) of Portland, and Anthony "TJ" Rossitto of Colebrook, NH, his special nephews Mason Neumann of Middletown, Nick Neumann, (Marissa of Bowie, MD), his special niece Michelle Cote of Middletown, very special friend Phillip Salonia of Middletown, nephew Tom Hajek (Jen) of Stratford, and many more nieces and nephews and cousins. Tony was predeceased by his sister Patricia Hajek.
Graveside services with full military honors will be held on Monday, May 22 in the State Veterans Cemetery, Middletown at 10am. The Couhlin-Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High Street, Middletown is in charge of arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his honor to Antique Veterans Senior Center, 22 West Main St, Meriden, CT 06451.
Evelina Labbadia Antogiovanni, 74, of Middletown, CT; wife of Paolo Antogiovanni, passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 9 after battling cancer for 3.5 years. Born on January 29, 1949 in Lenola (Province of Latina), Italy. Daughter of the late Giovanni and Alessandra (Spirito) Labbadia. Evelina came to the United States from Italy at the young age of 9 in 1958 and resided in Middletown; she attended Middletown High School and graduated Class of 1968, where she was a proud baton majorette. A parishioner of St. Sebastian Church and member of the Lenolese Society of Farmington. Last year she celebrated 53 years of marriage. Evelina loved to laugh, loved to cook, loved gardening, and most of all, devoted to and loved her family and grandchildren.
Besides her husband, she is survived by her oldest son, Stephen Antogiovanni (Giulia) of Middletown; daughter Tina Antogiovanni of Middletown; and youngest son Paul Antogiovanni (Rosanna) of New Jersey; Grandson Michael Mariano of California; granddaughter Alexia Antogiovanni, grandson Stephen Antogiovanni, and granddaughter Gabriella Antogiovanni, all of Middletown. Also survived by granddaughters Sophia Antogiovanni and Ava Antogiovanni, and grandson Lucas Antogiovanni, all from New Jersey. Evelina is also survived by a brother, Vincenzo and sister-in-law, Alessandra Labbadia of Middletown; sister-in-law Virginia (Marino) Labbadia of Middletown, sister-in-law Wanda (Arcaria) Labbadia of Portland, brother-in-law Rosario DiMauro of Middletown; a sister, Marie and brother-in-law Robert Woike of Cromwell; Predeceased by sister, Maria DiMauro; brother, Arthur Labbadia; brother, Rocco Labbadia, and infant brother, Roberto.
The family would like to thank the entire Team of Doctors, Nurses, and Caregivers at Yale & Middlesex Hospitals for the compassionate and skilled care that Evelina received. A special thank you to the Team at Middlesex Healthcare at Home and Hospice for their exceptional care.
Friends and Family may call at the Coughlin-Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High St. Middletown, on Friday, May 26, from 4-8pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St Sebastian Church, 155 Washington St., Middletown, on Saturday May 27 at 10:00 am. Burial will be held in the family plot in St. Sebastian Cemetery Middlefield following the Mass.
Ronald Robert Youmans, 61, of Middletown, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, April 19, 2023. Ronald was born on July 25, 1961 in Hartford Connecticut.
Ronald attended Middletown High School and graduated in 1980. He played football and baseball for Middletown High School, and was a member of the fraternity A.O.T.
Ronald spent many years working in the construction field and in roofing. Over the last 20 years, he was the building superintendent at a small apartment building in Middletown. Here he helped many residents, whether it was running errands, preparing meals (even on Thanksgiving), or assisting with maintenance around residents' apartments, he was known by all as someone who always lent a helping hand.
Ronald was a lifelong and diehard New York Yankee fan. Ronald never missed an opportunity to see or watch a game. Ronald also loved Harley Davidson motorcycles and owned several over the years. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and playing cards with his friends. Ronald will be remembered for his big heart and for helping those in need.
Ronald is survived by his parents; Robert Youmans of New Britain, Judith Harvey and her husband Bruce Harvey of Southington; his son Kyle Youmans of Middletown, his grandsons; Travis and Camden Youmans; his stepson Richard Pasquarelli of Portland, his sister Jillene Mann of Cromwell; his brother Richard Youmans and his wife Bonnie Youmans of West Hartford. Ronald also leaves behind several nieces and nephews; Melissa Warrek and her husband Beau Warrek of Cromwell; their children, Abigail, Scarlett, and Lucas Warrek, Matthew Mann and his fiance Kendall Manguilli of Newington; Alan Page and his wife Heather Page of Branford; their daughter Isabella; and Elise and Kellie Youmans of West Hartford.
Ronald is preceded in death by, his life partner Tina Pasquarelli; his grandparents, James and Irene Youmans; grandparents Herman and Mary Johanns; and brother in law Edward Mann.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Saint Jude’s Make a Wish Foundation at: https://wish.org/
Friends may call at the Coughlin-Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High Street, Middletown on Friday, Apr 28 from 5-7pm. Burial will be private.
Joseph D. Prince
9/30/54- 3/25/23
It is with a heavy heart that the family of Joseph D. Prince shares the news of his sudden passing after a brief illness on Saturday, March 25, 2023. Joe was a lifelong Middletown resident, a graduate of Vinal Technical School, and held a career as the building superintendent at Gateway Community College since the early 90s. He had a passion for many outdoor activities such as fishing in the Niantic bay, hunting, dirtbike riding, and gardening. His yearly vegetable garden was always impressive and included multiple varieties of tomatoes, peppers, squash, and greens. The garden was so plentiful that those around him were treated with fresh produce every year and he made donations from his garden to the local food pantry. He was also well known for being able to fix or build anything. His skills included carpentry, welding, and mechanics. All projects included a high level of detail and were meant to last a lifetime.
While he had so many hobbies, he loved his family most. He was a devoted son, loving husband, proud father, and grandfather. He is survived by the love of his life; Cora Prince (Molinari), whom he married in 1979, his mother; Marie Prince (DiStefano), his children and their spouses; Carla and Joshua Strecker, Joseph and Melissa Prince, Krista and Charles Salvatore, Michael and Jessie Prince, and his 4 grandchildren; James Prince, Frances Strecker, Juliana Prince, and Daniel Prince.
Joe’s family is very appreciative of the kind words and messages that have been shared. He will be missed by so many. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Vincent de Paul, Amazing Grace Food Pantry, in Middletown, CT.
A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, April 21st at 10 a.m. in St. John's Church, Middletown. Burial will be private. The Coughlin-Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High St, Middletown, is in charge of arrangements.
Honoring the life of Harry W. Vega
12/19/1958 - 03/24/2023
Viewing -April 4th, 2023 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Coughlin-Lastrina Funeral Home
491 High Street, Middletown, CT, 06457
(Wear your Best Yankee Hat)
Burial – April 5th, 2023 10 a.m.
St. Mary’s Cemetery, 1141
Stanley St, New Britain, CT, 06051.
It is with deepest heartbreak that we announce the passing of Harry W. Vega into eternity to be with the Lord. A genuine individual who is loved by many including family, friends, coworkers and mentees alike. He was a champion who overcame brokenness and who carried a bright smile in the midst of any situation. Harry poured out his person to help those in need and was a hardworking, generous and kind man. Harry will be forever loved, never forgotten and deeply missed. We love you so very much, Rest now my Champion!
“The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The LORD lift
up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.”
Numbers 6:24-26
In lieu of a limitation of flowers at the site of burial please feel free to make a donation of any dollar amount small or great to the https://alzheimersprevention.org/
https://arpf.donorshops.com/products/Tribute/tributedonation
George C. Kalber, age 90, passed away on Saturday, March 25, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Hartford, CT on July 10, 1932 to George Kalber and Dorothy (Landry) Kalber. He was a longtime resident and businessman of Middletown, CT including Middletown Auto Parts, which was the first NAPA in Middletown. George was a fixture at Bob's Auto Service, proudly serving customers both before and long after his retirement. He was a United States Veteran serving in the Air Force as Airman First Class from 1950-1954. Above all, George was a family man, storyteller, and auto and sports enthusiast. He could often be found hand in hand with his wife cheering on the Red Sox, the UCONN Huskies, and Nascar races. George was predeceased by his parents and a grandson, Eric Kalber. He is survived by his devoted wife of 67 years, Patricia Wrang Kalber. He also leaves behind two sons, a daughter and their spouses Robert and Trish Kalber of Middletown, Stephen and Kelly Kalber of Middletown, and Michele and Steven Johnson of Middletown, five grandchildren Kristy Kalber, David Johnson, Nicole Johnson, Rebecca Kalber, and Alex Kalber, two great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by five siblings and spouses Raymond and Terry Kalber of Coventry, CT, Ralph Kalber of Hartford, CT, Marilyn Hewitt of Bellows Falls, VT, Lois and Paul Somers of Ashburnham, MA, and Claire and Richard Dalidowitz of Kensington, CT.
The funeral will be held on Thursday, March 30th, at 10:30 a.m. from the Coughlin-Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High Street, Middletown followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Pius X Church at 11:30 a.m. Burial will be in the State Veterans Cemetery, Middletown. Friends may call at the funeral home on Wednesday, March 29th from 5-7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: The EJK Scholarship Fund at Xavier High School 181 Randolph Road Middletown, CT or St. Pius X Church 310 Westfield St. Middletown, CT.
Giuseppe Cardella, 78, of Rocky Hill, passed away on March 5, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Sebastiana (Misenti) Cardella. Giuseppe was born in Melilli, Sicily, and later immigrated to Middletown, CT in 1977. A talented and skillful mason by trade, Giuseppe’s craftsmanship can be seen in many buildings throughout Melilli. Giuseppe later retired as a machinist, whose distinct work ethic was second to none. He worked endlessly to provide for his family.
He enjoyed immensely spending time with his family who always felt his immeasurable love. He was especially fond of creating memories with his grandchildren who made him smile and laugh. He also relished sharing the simple pleasures of life with his lifetime best friend, his wife Sebastiana. They spent endless hours gardening, watching soccer, taking long walks, and making homemade wine.
Giuseppe leaves behind his four daughters and their husbands, Angela Rabeno (Stephen) of Port Jefferson, Long Island, Laura O’Sullivan (Edward) of Clinton, Monia Piacenti (Marco) of Higganum, Maria Palazzo (John) of Rocky Hill, and his thirteen beautiful grandchildren: Chiara, Jack, Michela, Mattea, Matteo, Stefano, Eva, Maddie, Luca, Ronan, Gianna, Elena, and Aurora. He also leaves behind his sister Giuseppa (Sebastiano) Latina of Middletown and brother, Rosario (Franca) Cardella of Melilli, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Sebastiano and Angela (Musumeci) Cardella, his brothers Gaetano and Salvatore, and his sister, Sebastiana Cardella.
“And think of him as living in the hearts of those he touched….for nothing loved is ever lost and he was loved so much.” His Journey's just begun (Ellen Brenneman)
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 11th at 9 a.m. from the Coughlin Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High St., Middletown followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Sebastian Church at 10 a.m. Burial will be in the family plot in St. Sebastian Cemetery, Middlefield. Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday, March 10th from 4 to 6 p.m.
Debra M. Liistro, 65, of Middletown, beloved wife of Luigi Liistro passed away at her residence on Monday February 27th. Born on April 8, 1957 in Hartford, daughter of the late Dr. Robert and Carol (Hazzard) Miller. She had been a lifelong resident of Middletown and a 1975 graduate of Mercy High school. A member of St. John’s Church Middletown and was employed by Sanditz Travel as a travel agent for many years. She was a member of Middlesex Vocal Chords and former president of St. John’s Parish Council where she also sung in the church choir. She was an avid gardener and beach lover. She enjoyed traveling to new places, especially Sicily with her husband and family. Her greatest joy was spending time with her two grandchildren. Besides her husband of 42 years, she is survived by her loving family, two sons Salvatore and his wife Laura (Saponare) Liistro of Middletown, Stefano Liistro of Middletown, two sisters Victoria Delgado and Laura Gennaro, her brother Robert and his wife Gabriella Miller Jr, her grandchildren Leonardo and Siena, her two sister in laws Vincenza Italia and husband Salvatore, and Loredana Marina and her husband Daniele, and nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her sister in law Rosanna Airo.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday March 4that 11 a.m. in St. John’s Church, Middletown. Burial will be in the family plot in St. Sebastian’s Cemetery, Middlefield. Friends may call at the Coughlin-Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High St., Middletown on Saturday, March 4th from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions to St. John’s Church, 19 St. John’s Square, Middletown, CT, 06457.
Mario Maselli Sr., 83, of Middletown CT, passed away peacefully at Middlesex Health on February 7, 2023, after a brief illness. Surrounded by his adoring wife and family, who never left his side.
Mario was born January 8, 1940, in Cercemaggiore, Italy. He was the son of the late Giuseppe and Maria (D’Amico) Maselli. He was also preceded by his brother Angelo Maselli and sister Maria (Maselli) Lupo.
Mario is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years Tina (Milardo), son Giuseppe Maselli and his wife, Amy of Berlin, his son Mario Maselli Jr. and his wife, Jodie of Berlin. Mario will be dearly missed by his Grandchildren: Dominic, Garrett, Coleton, Brielle and Gianluca who loved their Nonno very much. In addition, Mario also leaves behind his sister, Assunta Lupo and her husband, Tulio of Watertown, his aunt, Giovanna Quirici of Watertown, his sister-in-law, Antonietta Maselli of Watertown, his brother-in-law Bruno Lupo of Watertown, his sister-in-law Nella Giardina and her husband, Pasquale of Middletown, his brother-in-law Sebastian Milardo of Cromwell, his brother-in-law Tony Milardo and his wife, Paula of Middletown. Mario was also cherished by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends both here and in Italy.
Mario started his master craft as a Tailor in Italy at an early age and produced many fashions forward custom suits. Mario had a passion for the game of Soccer, he was fortunate to have played in Italy and Germany while working as a tailor. Mario also served in the Italian Army. He arrived in the United States in 1968 and continued his craft working in factories, JCPenney, Sears & Macys.
Mario opened a men’s clothing store, Maselli‘s Fashion for Men, in Middletown, CT and then later he relocated to Mario’s Tailor Shop, servicing the community for all their custom clothing needs. He later retired from Macy’s after 25 years as a Master Tailor. Mario was always dressed to the nines and a true class act. He always loved spending time with family and entertaining friends over a glass of his favorite Carlo Rossi wine Chianti. Mario was also an active member of the Cercemaggiore Community Club in Watertown, CT, and the Italian Society of Middletown, CT, where he enjoyed playing cards with his fellow members.
A mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday (February 11th) at 11:00 a.m. at St. Sebastian’s Church. Friends may call at the Coughlin-Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High St., Middletown on Saturday (February 11th) from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in the family plot in St. Sebastian’s Cemetery, Middlefield, CT.
Maria Musumeci Birritteri, 88, of Roberts Street, New Britain, beloved wife of the late Emanuele Birritteri, passed away on February 6, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on December 5, 1934, in Priolo Sicily, daughter of the late Rosario Musumeci and Giuseppa Micale. She has been a resident of New Britain most of her life as well as a member of St Ann Church. Maria was an extraordinarily strong matriarch of a tight-knit Italian family. Maria was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, known to her grandchildren as "Nonna Maria." Maria was a true treasure and was adored by her family; she had a fiery spirit and was tough as nails. A talented baker, Maria had a passion for baking her special almond cookies, to the pleasure of her family. She was always making sure her family was well-fed and loved. Her home was a safe haven and place of warmth for everyone who walked through her door. She is survived by her son and daughter, Joe (Dante) Birritteri and Josie Birritteri of New Britain, daughter-in-law Cecelia Birritteri of New Britain, son-in-law Vincenzo Buccheri of Berlin; six grandchildren, Sylvia Buccheri Sznaj and husband George of Berlin, Anthony Buccheri and wife Michele of East Hampton, Emanuele Birritteri and fiancé Allison of Simsbury, Maria Luisa DonAroma and husband Joseph of East Hampton, Joseph Birritteri and wife Jennese of New Britain, and Michael Birritteri of New Britain; thirteen great grandchildren, Daniela Emanuela, Nicholas, Vincent, Robert, Izabella, Joseph, Gianna, Giuliana, Sophia Marie, Mia, Anthony, Angelina, and Santino; also, several nieces and nephews. Maria is predeceased by her three beloved siblings, Santino and Felice Musumeci and Santina Briganti. She is also predeceased by her beloved daughter, Palma Buccheri, with whom she is finally reunited with in heaven.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, February 10th at 12 noon in St. Ann’s Church, New Britain. Burial will be in the family plot at St. Mary’s Cemetery, New Britain. The Coughlin-Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High St, Middletown, is in charge of arrangements.
We invite you to walk with us as we celebrate the life of Theresa Dolores Rauba Pajer. Terry passed away peacefully on January 17, 2023, 90 years after her life’s journey began in Cicero, IL. on October 12, 1932.
The walk with Terry would begin on a farm. She would first introduce you to her great uncle and aunt and her 4 cousins. She might introduce you to the many farm animals that she spent her days with, sparking a love of animals that would last a lifetime and the fields filled with vegetables and the gardens with flowers. She might walk you past the smokehouse and the beehives, the swimming hole and the stream for fishing.
Off to Brooklyn, NY in 1941 with her mom where Terry would attend Prospect Heights High School. Salutatorian, Class President and Captain of several sports teams highlight those years. She also appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show as a part of a Lithuanian Dance Troupe.
It is in Brooklyn that Terry met Valentine Pajer. They were married at Our Lady of Refuge Church in December 1950. Val joined the US Air Force and the next few years were filled with a growing family and military postings to Cheyenne, WY, San Antonio, TX, and England.
It was during this time of travel, that Terry and Val would welcome their first two children, Kathleen and Joanne.
Out of the Air Force and back to Brooklyn and meet Valentine (the next one), and then there were three.
Terry and Val’s journey together found them next in Clinton, CT in the late 50’s and 1960’s. A long career for Terry at Chesebrough Ponds/Unilever begins. And meet Dorothy and Joseph, followed by Mary and Gerard. Most times a dog, or two plus an occasional cat added to the home.
Keeping up with Terry, during these years in Clinton would be a challenge as her life was filled with cooking, gardening and sewing, in addition to a fulltime career and raising seven children.
You always knew where to find Terry on a Sunday morning. The Catholic Church, and her faith were important to her. She shared her faith and the power of prayer with her family.
In 1976 Terry and Val were excited to welcome their first Grandchild to this journey. As with their children, they would welcome many more. 24 total grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren filled their lives with joy, happiness and a measure of chaos.
Terry would proudly show her many Blue Ribbons from the Durham Fair and the Connecticut State Fair. Terry could be found at Craft Shows around southern New England displaying her many creative treasures, many times with her younger daughters and grandchildren assisting. You might also notice a ribbon or two for assorted baked goods, with her apple pie a perennial state winner!
Terry’s life’s journey has now come to a close. She is survived by those seven children: Dr Kathleen Pajer and her husband Dr. William Gardner, Dr Joanne Starr and her husband Mike, Valentine Pajer and his wife Terri, Dorothy Benham and her husband Edward, Joseph Pajer and his wife Debbie, Mary Duba and her husband Tom and Gerry Pajer. Also, those 24 grandchildren and 30 great grandchildren and many friends.
Sadly, in late 2019, after 69 years together, Valentine passed away. Terry and Val are together again, dancing to their song, “The Tennessee Waltz.”
The funeral will be held on Wednesday, January 25th at 9 a.m. at the Coughlin-Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High St, Middletown, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Colman’s Church, Middlefield, at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in the State Veterans Cemetery, Middletown. Friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday, January 24th from 5-7 p.m.
Neil Francis Gervais, 98, of Middletown and formerly Colchester, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 12, 2022, following a brief illness. He was the beloved husband of the late Mary Jean (Peabody) Gervais. He was born in Providence, RI on August 29, 1924, the eldest of five children to Clarence and Eunice (Lataille) Gervais.
Neil l
Neil Francis Gervais, 98, of Middletown and formerly Colchester, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 12, 2022, following a brief illness. He was the beloved husband of the late Mary Jean (Peabody) Gervais. He was born in Providence, RI on August 29, 1924, the eldest of five children to Clarence and Eunice (Lataille) Gervais.
Neil lived a life dedicated to curiosity and learning. In 1951, Neil enlisted in the Navy where he trained rigorously to become a medical specialist, ultimately rising to the rank of Petty Officer, 2nd Class and serving as a surgical assistant in Naval Hospital operating rooms along the East Coast, and a Corpsman for the Marines. The Navy is also where he met the love of his life, Mary Jean, who worked as a Naval x-ray technician. They married on August 17, 1953, at the Navel Chapel in Washington, DC and spent 56 years together until her passing in 2010.
After serving in the Navy, Neil attended college and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in 3.5 years. He taught English at Middletown High from 1962 to 1984, where he rose to head of the department, served as the Yearbook Advisor, and earned his Masters of Education at Wesleyan University along the way.
Neil enriched the lives of not only his students, but also his family, creating timeless traditions like annual vacations and weekly Sunday dinners. He shared his passion for music and ministry as a choir member, pianist, and organist at St. Pius in Middletown and St. Andrew's in Colchester. As a lifelong Red Sox & UConn Huskies fan, he enjoyed attending games, as well as being outdoors, camping, gardening and was an avid swimmer all his life.
Neil is survived by his sister Margie of Iowa, and his six children: Mark Gervais and wife Carol of East Greenwich, RI; Michael Gervais and his wife Lamjuen of Alamogordo, NM; Claudia Evans from Portland, OR; Margot Asfalg and her husband Greg of Cromwell, CT; Joel Gervais and his wife Diane of Durham, CT; and Lisa Erickson and her husband Rob of Harvard, MA. He also leaves behind 14 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and numerous extended family members and beloved friends, especially Peter Loffredo. The Gervais family is grateful for the many years of heartfelt care from his doctors and care team and the staff at Heritage Commons.
Friends may call from 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, December 27th at the Coughlin-Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High St., Middletown. The Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, December 28th directly at St. Pius X Church, 320 Westfield St., Middletown. Committal with full military honors will follow at the State Veterans Cemetery, Middletown. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made In Neil's honor to the American Heart Association.
Sebastiana (Nella) Aresco, 89, of Middletown, beloved wife of Luigi Aresco passed away on Tuesday (December 13) at Middlesex Hospital surrounded by her family. Born on June 13, 1933 in Melilli Sicily, Italy, and came to the U.S. in 1951 with her family where they settled in Middletown. She was the daughter of the late Luigi and Angelina
Sebastiana (Nella) Aresco, 89, of Middletown, beloved wife of Luigi Aresco passed away on Tuesday (December 13) at Middlesex Hospital surrounded by her family. Born on June 13, 1933 in Melilli Sicily, Italy, and came to the U.S. in 1951 with her family where they settled in Middletown. She was the daughter of the late Luigi and Angelina (Pizzuto) Milardo. Nella was a member of St. Sebastian Church. Besides her husband she is survived by her loving family of three sons and two daughter in laws, Carmelo and Susan, Louis and Suzanne and John. Four grandchildren, Christopher, Louis, Daniel and Christina and three great grandchildren, Avery, Sofia and Giovanna as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two brothers, Sebastian and Mario Milardo.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 19th at 11 a.m. in St. Sebastian Church. Burial will be in the family plot in St. Sebastian Cemetery, Middlefield. Friends may call at the Coughlin-Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High St., Middletown, on Monday, December 19th from 9 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.
Edward Niel Romero, 72, of Colchester, CT passed away at home on December 2, 2022. He was born in Lake Charles, LA, son of the late Lawrence and Betty Romero.
He retired after more than 28 years as the "Garden Homer" at The Home Depot. As a young man, he spent a few years working offshore in the Gulf of Mexico drilling for oil. He proudly
Edward Niel Romero, 72, of Colchester, CT passed away at home on December 2, 2022. He was born in Lake Charles, LA, son of the late Lawrence and Betty Romero.
He retired after more than 28 years as the "Garden Homer" at The Home Depot. As a young man, he spent a few years working offshore in the Gulf of Mexico drilling for oil. He proudly served his country in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.
Edward grew up in Louisiana, the sportsman's paradise. He loved hunting, fishing, crabbing, crawfishing and camping. He was a great Cajun cook and an avid gardener. He was devoted to his family, his four yellow labs and tabby cat. He enjoyed sharing a family hobby of making and painting plaster statues with all the kids of his family and friends.
He was predeceased by his brother Lester Romero and great-granddaughter Harper Nunez. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Karen Romero; his children Sarah Romero of Bristol, CT, Sheila White (Marvin) and Donna Nunez both of Westlake, LA; his sisters Jeanette Shotwell of Westlake, LA, Linda Romero of Louisville, KY, Rosella Hawkins (Herman) of Seguin, TX; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who loved him. He was a beloved grandfather to six grandchildren: Wendi, Brooke, Allison, Julie, Nikki, Casey and six great-grandchildren: Lillian, Anna, Eliza, Hannah, Carter, Kymberlee.
A memorial mass will be held on Tuesday, December 13that 10:30 a.m. in St. Pius X Church, Middletown. Burial with full military honors will be in the State Veteran’s Cemetery, Middletown. The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to their favorite charity in Edward Romero’s name.
The Coughlin Lastrina Funeral Home, 491 High St., Middletown is in charge of arrangements.
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