Deborah Carr, 67, of Norwalk passed away on Saturday, July 1, 2017.

Born in Mineola, NY, on May 5, 1950, she was the daughter of the late Howard and Mable Louise Corson Carr.

Debbie lived most of her life with a smile on her face and a cheery greeting to all she met. Untouched by many of the cares of the world, she participated in life at STAR and lived for many years in a nearby residence.  She spent the last few years at the Westport Rehabilitation Center. She was loved by friends at Star, DDS, the Center and by her guardians. Often repeated words were, “Bye, Bye”.

In addition to her parents Debbie was predeceased by her sister Carol Ann Carr.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 12, at 5:00 PM at the Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk. Friends may call on Wednesday from 4:00 to 5:00 PM at the funeral home. Deborah will be privately laid to rest with her family in Milford, NH.

Ian Thomas Hoermann of Ansonia, CT, formerly of Norwalk, CT passed away peacefully on July 6, 2017. He was predeceased by his father, Thomas Joseph Hoermann, Jr. He was survived by and will be deeply missed by: his mother, Christine L. Hoermann of Ansonia, CT, his daughters, Hallie Parrent, of Norwalk, CT, Gilian M. Colon of Royersford, PA, his sister, Kelly L. Straniti, her husband Artie D. Straniti and their son, Emerson T. Straniti of Norwalk, CT and his sister, Adah A. Hoermann, her husband Peter Addy and her daughter, Zoe Hoermann of Portland Oregon, as well as several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Ian will be remembered for his spirited laugh and his deep and loyal love for his family and friends. A graduate of Norwalk High School, his favorite pastimes included cooking, music and his many cars over the years. He was known for his generous spirit and willingness to help out those in need, and is fondly remembered also by a wide and extended network of friends in the lower CT area who will also miss him dearly.

Friends may call at Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk on Monday July 17, 2017 from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM services will begin at 7:30PM.

George P. Malisk, Jr, husband of Alberta (Betty) C. Malisk – both longstanding residents of Westport, CT– passed away on Sunday, July 9, 2017 in Aventura, FL with his beloved wife of 58 years, Betty, and daughter, Anne, by his side.

He was born on June 14, 1930 in New Rochelle, NY, graduated from Greenwich High School in 1949, and served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War.  George was the son of the late Alma and George P. Malisk, Sr., and the brother of the late Wesley Malisk and Marjorie Jones.  George leaves behind a loving family including, Betty, the love of his life, and his daughter, Anne, who he adored.  He also leaves behind three nieces-Joanne, Jennifer, and Maryanne; three nephews- Curtis, Peter, and Jim; and his special brother-in-law, Danny who will all remember Sundays waterskiing on his boat, picnics on the beach and fun family gatherings at the house in Westport.

George was owner and operator of HARCO Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Company in Westport, CT for over 40 years.  He and his wife, Betty, were married on October 18, 1958 and lived in Westport for forty-five years before moving to Aventura, FL fifteen years ago.   It was while living in Florida that he discovered his passion for singing, and his trademark song was “Old Man River” while singing in the chorus at the Vi in Aventura.  He worked hard, enjoyed life to its fullest, but his family always came first.  He was truly one-of-a-kind and will be missed deeply by all who loved him.

A celebration and final services will be held this coming weekend.  Calling hours on Friday, July 14 from 5 – 8pm at the Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, July 15^th at 9:30 AM in St. Matthew Church, 216 Scribner Avenue, Norwalk. Burial will follow in Willowbrook Cemetery, 395 Main Street, Westport, CT.

Contributions in his memory may be made to, Susan B. Anthony Project, 179 Water Street, Torrington, CT 06790 or Bridgeport Rescue Mission, Donation Center, 1069 Connecticut Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06607.

John F. Coughenour, Jr., 88 husband of the late Patricia Coughenour, formerly of Colorado, passed away on Monday, July 10, 2017.

Born in Denver, CO, in 1929 he was the son of the late Elizabeth and John F. Coughenour, Sr.

John is survived by his daughter Debra Hanson and her husband Viggo Hall Hanson of Wilton, CT, and four grandchildren.

In addition to his beloved wife Patricia, John was predeceased by his children Cherlynn Weil and Derek Coughenour and by his grandson Clayton Hall Hanson.

Services for John will be held at a later date in Colorado.

Herbert S. Meyers, son of George and Gussie Meyers of Norwalk, died quietly at his home in Westport on July 11. He was 86

Born and raised in Norwalk, as a teenager, he worked for the Norwalk Hour on the sports desk. Herbert graduated from The Choate School in Wallingford, CT, where his grandson just graduated from last month.

He attended Harvard College and Harvard Business School where he wrote passionately for the arts and sports sections of the Harvard Crimson. After a short stint in the Army, staying far out of harm’s way during the Korean conflict, Herbert and Vivian moved to Westport in 1959, and Herbert joined his father George and his older brothers Murray and Norman in the family handbag business, Meyers Manufacturing Company, on High Street in Norwalk.

A lifelong devotee of the arts and anything and everything beautiful, Herbert was a long time board member of The Westport Arts Center where he brought transformative energy and vision to bringing arts to the Westport community.  He was devoted to his family, a lifetime learner, and the ultimate big picture guy.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Vivian; his children Sarah, Fred and Andy; spouses Craig, Stephanie and Andrea; his grandchildren, Rachel, Kate, Isabelle, Eddie, Emma, Jacob, Henry, Lily, Nathan; and dear friend and caregiver, Judith.

Services will be held at Temple Israel in Westport on Thursday morning at 9:00 AM with burial following at the Independent Hebrew Society on Richards Avenue, Norwalk. The family will be sitting Shiva at 13 Blue Ribbon Drive on Thursday from 12pm to 3pm and then from 6pm to 9pm.  Friday 2pm to 5pm and Saturday 6pm to 10pm.

Shirley Ann (See) Mola, 84, of Seminole, Florida, the wife of the late John William Mola, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 11, 2017.  Born February 12, 1933, in Norwalk, Connecticut, she was the daughter of the late Frank William and Leila Marian (Bouton) See.  Shirley graduated Norwalk High School and shared ownership of Mola Brothers Sport Shop with husband John.  She later worked for many years at Tanner Clothing and was an avid bowler in The Holy Name League at Rip Van Winkle Lanes.  Shirley was an active volunteer and member of St. Francis of Assisi parish in Weston, Connecticut.

She is survived by her loving children David and his wife Jill, Bruce and his wife Maryann, Paul, Diane, Nancy, Gary and his wife Dulce; 12 grandchildren Kristina, Michael, Michelle, Corey, Alex, John, Brian, Danny, Robyn, Stephanie, Mark, and Rachel.  She is also survived by her sister, Beverly Melillo and her brother-in-law, Bob, of Seminole, Florida, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.  In addition to her late husband John, she was predeceased by her brothers William (Billy) See, John (Jack) See, sisters Dorothy (Dot) Pennoyer and Gertrude (Gert) Cassese.

Friends may call on Sunday, July 16^th from 2:00-5:00 pm at Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, July 17^th at 11:30am in St. Matthew Church, 216 Scribner Avenue, Norwalk, CT.  Interment will follow in St. John Cemetery, 223 Richards Avenue, Norwalk, CT.

Michael E. Numa, 59, husband of Kati Iljushkin-Numa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday July 12, 2017 at the Regional Hospice and Palliative Care Center in Danbury, CT.

Born on August 8, 1957 in Kingston, Jamaica, he was the son of the late Roland E. Numa of Hamden, CT and Hope Tamburrino of Ocala, Fl.

Michael graduated West Haven High School and then served in the U.S. Air Force stationed at Langley AFB in Virginia. While serving in the Air Force, Michael also attended college and later received a Master’s degree from Ashford University. After his service, Michael worked for several different companies including Microsoft, Data Switch and most recently at Sales Force. In his spare time, Michael loved to travel with Kati and to spend time with friends and family. Michael loved running and would often participate in marathons with his wife. Michael also taught kickboxing class at LA Fitness, which is where he met his wife Kati. He also liked to stop by Connecticut Cigar Company in Stamford.

He is survived by his loving wife Kati Iljushkin- Numa of Norwalk, daughters Rachel Seigel of Chicago, and Melanie Numa of Stamford, son Benjamin Numa of Enfield, mother Hope Tamburrino of Ocala, FL, sister Jennifer Przybylowski (John) of West Haven, brothers Stewart Numa (Mary) of West Haven and Christopher Numa (Lisa) of Wake Forest, NC. Additionally, Michael leaves many nieces and nephews, aunts, cousins, a grandniece, and lots of friends, as well as his favorite pet, Whisper.

Friends may call, Wednesday July 19, 2017 from 10 am to 11am at Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT, prior to a Catholic and military service at the funeral home at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Michael’s name may be made to: Regional Hospice and Palliative Care 30 Milestone Road Danbury, CT 06810 or https://regionalhospicect.org/about/donate/.

Petros Kitmiridis 69, husband of Andrea Simoulidis Kitmiridis, of Norwalk, passed away peacefully, but suddenly on Saturday, July 15, 2017.

Born August 5, 1947, in Kozani, Greece; he was the son of the late Panagiotis and Theodosia Pozoukidis Kitmiridis.

He always expressed his love for his family, and will be remembered as a person who was always smiling; full of life and love.

Survivors in addition to his wife Andrea include his daughter Soula Seitaridis and her husband Thomas, two sons; Panagiotis Kitmiridis and wife Maria, George Kitmiridis and wife, Vasiliki, all of Norwalk; five grandchildren; Vasili and Christina Seitaridis, Sophia, Eliana and Alexander Kitmiridis, three sisters; Sophia, Elizabeth and Anatoli.

Mr. Kitmiridis was predeceased by his brother George and sister Foula.

Friends may call on Tuesday from 5:00 to 9:00 P. M in St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 238 West Rocks Road, Norwalk.

Services will take place in the church on Wednesday at 10:00 A. M. Burial will follow the services in St. John Cemetery, 223 Richards Avenue, Norwalk.

Daniel J. Skura, 92, of Norwalk, husband of the late Evelyn B. Skura, passed away Friday, July 14, 2017 at the Norwalk Hospital.

Born in Greenwich, he was the son of the late Cyprian and Frances Skura. Mr. Skura was a U. S. Army veteran of World War II, and a retired postal worker.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, July 21^st, at 10:00 A. M. in St. Matthew Church 216 Scribner Avenue. Burial with military honors will follow in St. John Cemetery, Darien. Friends may call Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 P. M. at the Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue.

Victoria “Tory” Griffith (née Cavalli) passed away in the early hours of July 17, 2017 in Norwalk, CT at the age of 49.

Victoria is survived by her husband, David Griffith and their daughter, Skye Griffith of Norwalk, CT; sister Cassie Steinfeldt of Plymouth, NH; and numerous loving family members scattered around Connecticut, Texas, and other areas of the country.

Victoria was born on June 3, 1968 in Houston, TX. She graduated from University of Connecticut in 1998 with a B.A. in Psychology. She married David Griffith on August 11, 1996, whom she met through mutual friends. Victoria was an accomplished recruiter holding several full-time and contract positions for New York and Connecticut companies throughout her career, specializing in placing IT professionals and executives in more recent years. In 1999, Victoria and David welcomed Skye into their lives. Victoria was an incredible mother encouraging Skye to follow her young passions for figure skating and dance, always putting Skye’s happiness and well being first, making sure Skye always had everything she needed for school, sports, and fun.

Outside of her professional life, Victoria was probably best known for big heart and incredible generosity. She volunteered with the organizations Mid Fairfield AIDS Project (MFAP) and Shelly’s Angels Saving Strays, a dog rescue service for which she fostered numerous pets as they found new homes. Furthermore, Victoria and David were licensed foster parents for a few years having cared for three separate children. As anyone who knew Victoria can attest, she would be the first person to help another in need putting their needs before her own.

A memorial gathering to celebrate Victoria’s life will be held on Sunday, July 30, 5:30–9:00 PM, at Pastime Athletic Club, 59 Seaview Avenue, Norwalk, CT. Friends and family are welcome to pay their respects and share stories about Victoria at an open mic.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Victoria’s name to either of these two wonderful organizations: Mid Fairfield AIDS Project of Norwalk, CT (http://www.mfap.org/) or Shelly’s Angels Saving Strays in Cookeville, TN (http://awos.petfinder.com/shelters/TN390.html).

Susan Elizabeth Staff aged 62, wife of Michael C Staff, passed unexpectedly at home after a lengthy but courageous battle with various health issues on Thursday 7/20.

She was born 2/20/1955 in Norwalk to Theodore and Beatrice Kennedy.

For many years she worked at the Stauffer Chemical Company until she opted to stay at home with her children.

She is survived by her husband Michael C of Norwalk, her daughter and son in law, Kristina Staff and Edward Walsh of Waterbury, and her son and daughter in law Michael J and Sophia Staff of Danbury.

Friends may call Tuesday, July 25^th from  4 to 8 pm at Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, July 26^th at 10:00 AM in St. Philip Church, 1 Father Conlon Place, Norwalk. Burial will follow in St. John Cemetery, 223 Richards Avenue, Norwalk.

Donations in her name can be directed to St. Philip Church, or Davita Dialysis Center both in Norwalk.

Great Grandmother, Grandmother, Mother, Aunt, Wife, Miss Betty and a Friend.

Elizabeth “Betty” Mayer, 102 years, 4 months and 25 days.  Wife of Eugene Otto Mayer, died July 25, 2017 in Wilton, CT. Betty was born in South Norwalk, CT on March 30, 1915, to the late Stephen and Elizabeth Szempias Wargo. Betty attended the Norwalk School System and was a member of the Evangelical and Reformed Hungarian Church on Lexington Avenue. Betty attended Kathryn Gibbs Secretarial School in Stamford, CT where she was employed by C&K Hat Corporation of America “Dobbs Hats”. Betty also worked in Richmond Engineering in South Norwalk. She lived and married in South Norwalk where she raised 2 sons, Richard E. Mayer  and the late Dr. Eugene S. Mayer. In 1960 she moved to Westfield, NJ to work for the Singer Company.  Betty also worked in Forked River, NJ for Mr. and Mrs. Roger Naylor and retired after 22 years at the age of 83. Outside of her professional life, Betty spent most of her time with family and friends.  She volunteer for many years at the Marvin’s Children Center, (Referred to affectionately by the students as Miss Betty) and made blankets for Soldiers. Betty survived all her siblings, Dorothy Magyar, Irene Sheridan, Margorie Rysz, Joseph Wargo and Stephen Wargo. She loved her family which included her sons: Richard Mayer and his wife Ada, and Dr. Eugene (Gene) Mayer and his wife Jill, her nieces: Sharon Leonardo and her husband Peter, Lynn Heuer, Susan Wargo, Carol Wargo, and the late Beverly Cannon, Shirley Speno, and Janice Rysz and nephews: Charles Sheridan and his late wife Mary, Jack Sheridan and his wife Joann, David Rysz and his wife Drew, and the late Paul Rysz Sr. married to Kathleen.  Betty had 4 grandchildren: Kimberly Dejana and her husband Vincent of Wilton, CT, Heather Cramer and her husband John of Fairfield, CT, Stephen Mayer and his wife Julia of Sacramento, CA and Erica Mayer of North Carolina and 3 great Grandchildren: Ally and Shelby Dejana and Lincoln Cramer, along with a large group of family and friends. Her wishes were to raise a glass and make a toast to a healthy and happy life to all of her friends and family.  Betty has requested if anyone would like to make a donation in honor of her life, please direct your donations to Under One Roof 60 Gregory Boulevard in Norwalk, CT 06855.

Edward Conrad Ripp of Westport died peacefully at home following a short illness on August 4, 2017. He was born February 20, 1931 in Sand Brook, New Jersey, the son of Karl Ripp and Helen Anderson Ripp.  Ed moved with his family as a toddler to a farm in New Hampshire but the family moved once again to Staten Island when he was still a young boy. He spent the rest of his boyhood in Staten Island, growing up as one of eight brothers and sisters, first generation Americans whose parents and older brother had emigrated from Estonia.

Following graduation from Curtis High School in Staten Island in 1948, Ed served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After his military service, he attended Ohio State University on the GI Bill, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering.

Ed met his wife Jean C. Szekely back in Staten Island and they wed in 1958. The couple moved to Connecticut in 1959 settling in Westport, with a year’s hiatus living in the Netherlands in 1960 where their first child was born.

During his career as an engineer, he worked as project manager at Bunker Ramo Corporation, and later at Pitney Bowes as a Senior Engineer, where he retired after more than 20 years.

Ed was an avid golfer, gardener and devout Christian.  His family joked that his top favorite things were the three “G’s” (golf, gardening and God – maybe not in that order). He was a longtime member of Longshore Country Club in Westport where he was especially proud of hitting a hole in one in May 1999.  In good weather when not on the golf course, Ed enjoyed tending his garden, growing everything from squash and green beans to his beloved tomatoes.

Ed is survived by his wife, Jean, their daughters Gail Ripp Buck and her husband George of Rangeley, Maine and Carolyn Ripp Snyder, her husband David and his two grandchildren Emma an Eliza of Wilton, CT. He is also survived by his siblings Oie Sokota of Great Neck, NY, Rudolph Ripp of Staten Island, NY and Helen Carstens of Long Island, and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, August 9, 2017 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 208 Newtown Ave, Norwalk, CT. Family visitation will be at 10:00 a.m. at the church with a service following at 11:00 a.m.  Burial will be immediately following the service.

Seymour Simpson of Delray Beach FL, formerly of Norwalk died peacefully at his home in Florida on August 8^th at the age of 100.  He was the loving husband of Rose (Marenus) Simpson and his longtime partner Bertha Smith, both who preceded him.  He was the son of the late Samuel and Ethel (Siegel) formerly of New Haven, CT.

Seymour was a proud veteran of World War II.  He served with the 8^th Army Air Corp, 91^st Bomb Group (H), 323rd Bomb Squadron.  He was a radio operator, waist gunner and armorer.  He flew multiple missions over Germany.

When he returned after the war, he and Rose settled in Norwalk in 1946.  There they opened a small houseware and hardware store on Cedar Street.  The little store, Seymour’s Housewares grew, eventually moving to Connecticut Avenue and renamed Seymour’s Paint and Hardware Inc. and expanded many times.

Seymour was very active in the life of his community.  He was a member of the Masons,  St. John’s Lodge #6, and Boynton Beach Lodge #236.  He was recently recognized for 60 years of service and was also a Shriner.

He was a long time member of the Independent Party of Norwalk where he served many terms as Treasurer.  In 1975 he was appointed Fire Commissioner by Mayor Jennie F. Cave.  He enjoyed observing the brave Firefighters do their job and admired their courage.

Seymour was very active in religious life.  He served as trustee and later President of Zera Kodesh Congregation.  He also served as a trustee of Congregation Beth EL.

He was a founding member of the Neptune Boat Club Inc. and enjoyed fishing on Long Island Sound.  He was an avid bowler, having sponsored a team through his hardware store.

He recently enjoyed the celebration of his 100^th birthday surrounded by his sons, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, nieces and nephews and his many friends at his home in Florida.  He was thrilled at having his family with him to celebrate.

Seymour leaves two sons, Samuel Simpson and his wife Marjorie of Wilton and Michael D. Simpson of Hartford, his two grandchildren whom he adored, Betsy Rose Simpson and Benjamin Simpson.  In addition, he is survived by many nieces and nephews as well as multiple great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at Collin’s Funeral Home on East Avenue Sunday August 13^th at 11:30 AM with internment following at Beth El Cemetery.  Shiva, a period of mourning, will be observed on Sunday and Monday at the Norwalk Inn and Conference Center, East Avenue.  The family requests in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to United Synagogues of Greater Hartford, Congregation Beth El or Shriners Children’s Hospital of Springfield Massachusetts.

Anne Schmitt Hieronymus, 66 of Bedford, NH, formerly of Norwalk, wife of Klaus G. Hieronymus, died Tuesday, August 8, 2017 at Catholic Medical Center, Manchester, NH, after a brief illness.

Born in Norwalk and raised in Wilton, she was the daughter of Jane H. Schmitt and the late Peter C. Schmitt of Norwalk. Mrs. Hieronymus was a 1969 graduate of the former Central Catholic High School, and had been a member of St. Aloysius Parish, New Canaan. The family relocated to Bedford 25 years ago. She was a member of St. Elizabeth Seton Parish, and was a noted doll artist with the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen.

In addition to her mother and husband survivors include Mrs. Charles (Margaret) Dalsass of Boxboro, MA; Mrs. Philip (Elizabeth) Derendorf of Andover, MA; Mr. Klaus D. Hieronymus and wife Jessica of Bedford; Mr. Paul Hieronymus and wife, Wendi of Goffstown; Mr. Alex Hieronymus and wife, Janelle of New Boston; Mrs. Charles (Christen) Hanscom of Bedford; Ms. Julia Hieronymus of Westoboro, MA; Mr. Mark Hieronymus and wife, Alexandra of Ashburn, VA; Ms. Catherine Hieronymus of Westboro, MA; 24 grandchildren; 4 siblings, Peter C. Schmitt Jr. of Wilton; Mr. David H. Schmitt of Stratford; Mr. Stephen T. Schmitt of Boca Raton, FL; Mrs. William (Margaret) Skidd of Norwalk; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her father; she is predeceased by a sister, Carolyn J. Schmitt.

Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, August 13, 2017 from 2:00-5:00 p.m. at Lambert Funeral Home, 1799 Elm Street, Manchester, NH 03104.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am, Monday, August 14, 2017 at St. Elizabeth Seton Church, 190 Meeting House Rd., Bedford. Burial will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, also in Bedford.

Memorial contributions are requested to Rosemoor Foundation, PO Box 1541, Murray Hill Station, New York, NY 10156.

Robert J. Kenny, husband of the late Joan Hallinan Kenny, of Danbury and formally of Norwalk, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on August 12, 2017

Bob, son of the late William and Mary (Lynch) Kenny was born in Sharon, CT on February 27, 1928.

He graduated from Housatonic Valley Regional High School, Becker College and Pace University.  He was a proud veteran of the United States Army.  Bob enjoyed a career in the business world retiring from Emerson Quiet Kool as Vice President of Finance.

In retirement Bob enjoyed his many volunteer activities, including driving for FISH, American Cancer Society and volunteering for over 18,000 hours at Norwalk Hospital.  He was a Eucharistic Minister at St. Thomas the Apostle Church and active in many church activities.

Bob was the proud recipient of the Saint Augustine 2010 Medal of Service Award.  Bob’s most enjoyable time spent in retirement was watching, cheering and being supportive of his 11 grandchildren’s activities and always a very proud spectator.

Besides his wife Joan and parents, Bob was predeceased by his sisters Sally Dunsmore and Mary Calvin, brothers William, Jack, Peter and brother-in-law Joseph Hallinan.

Surviving Bob are his children Bob (Debbie) Kenny, Joe (Mary Jo) Kenny, Anne (Mike) Moser and Paul Kenny.  Also surviving Bob are his 11 grandchildren, who called him Poppa, Patrick, Moira, Rob, Sam, TJ, Colleen, Danny, Marla, Kevin, Matt and Lauren who he was very proud of and loved dearly.  He is also survived by 9 nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be 4-8 PM at Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT on Tuesday, August 15, 2017 and a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 AM Wednesday, August 16, 2017 at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 203 East Avenue,  Norwalk, CT. Burial will follow in St. John Cemetery, 223 Richards Avenue, Norwalk.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Trumbull Special Olympics 140 Colony Dr.  Trumbull, CT 06611 Attn:  Nancy Dennin.

Bob’s family would like to acknowledge the wonderful and compassionate care that he received during his time at Hancock Hall in Danbury, CT.

Beloved Community Volunteer dies at 91

Josephine De George Tarzia, a longtime resident of Norwalk, CT and Sheffield, MA, died peacefully on Monday, August 14, 2017.

Born in Stamford in 1925, Josephine was cherished by all who knew her for her incredible generosity, kindness, and friendliness. Her energy and enthusiasm were an inspiration to many. A graduate of Stamford High School, Josephine worked for decades as an office secretary and honed her talents in quilting, sewing, tailoring, crocheting, and gardening.

Josephine tirelessly donated her time and talent to help others in the community.  She presented 1000 handmade blankets for wounded veterans to the Soldiers’ Angels organization. Josephine was for many years an active member of the Columbiettes, and volunteered at the Norwalk Seaport Association, Norwalk Hospital Auxiliary, and St. Thomas the Apostle parish.

Josephine will be missed and her memory will be cherished by many. Predeceased by her husband, Pasquale Tarzia, a brother, Thomas De George, a sister, Geraldine Brekovsky, and a son-in-law, Michael R. Harke, Josephine is survived by her daughters, Angela Tarnuzzer, Donna Harke Buchman, sons-in-law John Tarnuzzer and William Buchman, grandsons Michael Harke, William Harke, Mark Tarnuzzer, John Tarnuzzer, a granddaughter Kimberly Harke, their spouses, and several great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be held Thursday,August 17th at Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk, from 9-10:30 am, to be followed by Mass at 11:00AM St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 203 East Avenue, Norwalk.

The family is grateful for the compassionate care provided by the Connecticut Hospice staff in Branford, and by Dr. Richard T. Gervasi of Norwalk.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that Josephine be remembered with donations to the Connecticut Hospice Association, Branford, CT, or to Under One Roof/The Marvin, Norwalk, CT.

William Poulos, 81, husband of Catherine Poulos and father to John Poulos, passed away Thursday, August 17, 2017 at his home surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Born in 1936, in Patras, Greece, he was the son of the late John Poulos and Hariklia Antonopoulos.

William Poulos attended Central High School in Providence, Rhode Island, and then proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War.  He later went on to become a successful entrepreneur starting multiple restaurant establishments in Rhode Island, including Little John’s Pizza which still stands today in Warwick, Rhode Island.  William remained connected to his roots and went on to become a developer and property owner in Athens, Greece.  He was forever a proud Marine and never left his home without wearing his Marine Corps hat.  He attended every 4^th of July Parade in Bristol, Rhode Island, visiting longtime friend Harold Demopoulos.  In his later years, he lived with his son, John Poulos, and his family in Wilton, Connecticut, where he enjoyed following his granddaughter’s athletic and professional career.

He is survived by wife Catherine of Warren, Rhode Island, his son John and his wife Ana of Wilton, Connecticut, and his granddaughter, Katherine.  He is also survived by his brother Lawrence Poulos of Cranston, Rhode Island and his wife and their two children.

Friends may call, Sunday, August 20^th from 3:00 – 7:00pm at Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT.  Services will be celebrated on Monday, August 21^st at 10:00am at St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 238 West Rocks Road, Norwalk, CT 06851.  Interment with full military honors will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 10 West Stevens Avenue, Hawthorne, NY 10532.

Charles William Bilik, 69, husband of Patricia Marie (Overton) Bilik, of Norwalk, CT and Port Saint Lucie, FL, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, listening to his favorite oldies on Monday, August 21, 2017.

Born in Norwalk on December 5, 1947, he was the son of the late Milton and Eleanor (Amundsen) Bilik.

Nothing surpassed his love of family, Oldies, and boating (except maybe raw oysters and clams).

In addition to his wife, Patricia, Charlie is survived by his children Randy Bilik and Dawn (Bilik) Papastathis and her husband George, Granddaughter Zoe, and his sister Diane Clancy.

Friends may call on Thursday, August 24, from 5:00 to 8:00PM at the Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk. Funeral Services will be held in the funeral home on Friday, August 25, at 10:00AM. Interment will follow in St. John Cemetery, 223 Richards Avenue, Norwalk.

James E. Hanford, 80, husband of Grace Gillespie Hanford of East Norwalk passed away on August 24, 2017 from complications of dementia. Jim was residing at Notre Dame Health and Rehabilitation Center.

He was born in Portland, Maine in September 20, 1936, son of the late Charles and Sara Coyne Hanford. Jim was a direct descendant of the Rev. Thomas Hanford, first teacher and minister of Norwalk, CT.

Jim was retired from the Stamford Board of Education where he had taught Mathematics at the Rogers Junior and West Hill High Schools. He graduated from WestConn and received his Master’s Degree and Sixth-Year Certificate from Fairfield University.  Jim was a lifeguard at Calf Pasture Beach. He also worked many years as Dock Master at Norwalk Cove Marina and Trenwick Group in Stamford. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and waterskiing. In his later years, Jim played golf. He was also a member of the South Norwalk Boat Club.

Jim is survived by his son Kevin and his wife Jennifer of Lewisville, TX; daughter Mary Alice and her husband Dan Worthmann of Natick, MA. He is also survived by his two grandsons, Chris and Brian Hanford.

Friends may call on Sunday from 4:00-7:00 PM at Collins Funeral Home, 92 East Avenue, Norwalk . A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday at 11:00 AM in St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, 203 East Avenue, Norwalk. Interment will be private. The Hanford family wishes to thank Dr. Arthur Heliotis and Sr. Lucie and Sr. Frances and the staff of Notre Dame for the excellent care they provided to Jim.