Bette Schissler Ledyard, CT – Bette reunited with her husband, Rob, her parents, Peg and Dan Shea and sister Maureen, on July 7, 2014. Bette leaves behind a brother, Dan Shea of Niantic, a sister, Meg Turpin of Plainfield, a niece and numerous nephews. Bette loved to travel having been nearly everywhere, and was ever a tough one to tie down in one place. Ever active, she danced like no one was watching. She had many loves and stayed very active in those loves, some include 1969 – 71 Hartford Ballet, 1960 – 71 Ballroom and children’s dance instructor, Dancemaster of America, National Association of Dance and affiliated artists, Hartford Ballet, Private Dance lessons in Hartford, New York and Boston. 1992 – 2002 Bette was involved with the Lyman Allyn Art Museum, the Bill Library – children’s dance program. 1990 – 1993 Ballroom dance instructor, Adult Ed., Norwich Arts Council. Adventures in Lifelong learning. She also volunteered at Veteran’s School 3rd grade class reading to the children and teaching them dance. Bette worked at the Norwich State Hospital until her retiring in 1992. Being a volunteer is definitely something she loved. In her memory remember, Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we’re here we should dance. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday July 14, 2014 at 11:00AM at Our Lady of Lourdes Church 1650 Route 12, Gales Ferry, CT. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her name to Reflex Sympatic Dystrophy Syndrome, R.S.D.S. Research, Boston Children’s Hospital 300 Longwood Ave. Boston, MA 02115 or Veterans’ School 80 Crouch Ave. Norwich, CT 06360. To share a condolence with the family please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com.
Bette Schissler
Ellen Thuotte
Ellen I. Thuotte March 27, 1924 – July 9, 2014 Ellen I. Thuotte, 90, of 136 Hunters Road, died Wednesday at the Wm W. Backus Hospital. She was born in Waterbury, Vermont, March 27, 1924, daughter of the late Edward and Mabel Merchant. She was a communicant of Sacred Heart Church, Taftville. In 1942, she married Noel N. Thuotte who pre-deceased her. Survivors include a son, Richard Thuotte of Tallahassee, Fla; three daughters, Barbara Shkutzko of Salem, Pamela Tondreau of Griswold and Kristie Gassett of Waterford, two sisters, Pauline Scovel of Canterbury and Edie Martinelli of Uncasville; eight grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. A memorial mass will be held on Wednesday, July 16, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Church, Taftville, CT. The Cummings-Gagne Funeral Home, 82 Cliff Street, Norwich is in charge of arrangements.
Brad Meyers
Brad Michael Meyers Uncasville, CT – Brad Michael Meyers 25, of Cottonwood Lane died unexpectedly Friday, July 11, 2014 at his home in Uncasville. He was born in Milford, CT on June 9, 1989 son of the late Brad Meyers and Robin (Macchia) DiClemente and his step father, Andy DiClemente. Brad graduated from Montville High School and attended Three Rivers Community College. He worked as a draftsman at the Electric Boat Co. in Groton. Mr. Meyers was a member of the Marine Draftsman Association and was a talented drawer. He idolized Bruce Lee and was an avid Step Mania player in Video gaming. In addition to his mother and step father, Brad is survived by a fiancée, Katie Quirici of Norwich, his brothers, Andrew DiClemente, Nathaniel DiClemente and Jared DiClemente, a maternal grandmother Patty Macchia of Ft. Pierce, Fl, maternal grandfather, Robert Macchia of Fairfield, CT, Paternal grandparents, Robert and Lori Meyers of Loves Park, IL, maternal great grandmother Mabel Graham of Wallingford and his paternal step grandparents, Chris and Frank DiClemente of Gallipolis, OH and numerous Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. The funeral service will be held on Friday, July 18, 2014 at 1PM at the Cummings-Gagne Funeral Home 82 Cliff St. Norwich, CT. Burial will follow in Comstock Cemetery in Uncasville, CT. Visitation will be at the funeral home Friday from 11AM till the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kitty Harbor, 2263 Glasgo Road, Jewett City, CT 06351. To share a condolence with the family please visit. www.cummings-gagnefh.com
Cathy Przekop
Cathy L. Przekop Norwich – Cathy Lynn Przekop 54, of Pratte Ave. Taftville died unexpectedly Thursday, July 10, 2014 at her home. She was born in Norwich on February 16, 1960 daughter of Jean Marie (St. Germain) Topalis of Norwich and the late Andrew P. Przekop. Cathy worked for many years as a well known cashier at the A&P Supermarket, Starrwood Market and most recently at Stop and Shop Supermarket in Norwich. She was always happy and quick with a smile, she loved her customers and all people she would meet. Cathy was an avid reader and was talented in crochet and knitting. In addition to her mother, Cathy is survived by her siblings, Andrew P. Przekop of Hanover, Nancy Lawson of Ledyard and Dennis Przekop of Taftville, her nieces and nephews, Benjamin Lawson, Jason Przekop, Tabatha Powell, Sarah Przekop, Amanda Przekop and Nathan Przekop, three grand niece and nephews, Jasmine Lawson, Conall Powell and Liam Powell and her sweet, loving Cat, Cuddles. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2014 at 9:00AM at Sacred Heart Church 156 Providence St. Taftville, CT. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Norwich. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her name to Kitty Harbor 2263 Glasgo Road Jewett City, CT 06351. To share a condolence please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com.
Margaret Lockwood
Margaret I. Lockwood, of Preston CT, died Sunday July 20th 2014 at William W. Backus Hospital, with family by her side. Margaret was born in Norwich CT on December 29th 1928 in Norwich CT. She was the daughter of Ruth Fo wler Smith and Joseph Smith. She grew up in Norwich and attended Norwich Public Schools and Norwich Free Academy before moving to Fishers island, NY, with her family, where she completed high school. On Fishers Island she met and married Dean B. Lockwood, of Tilton, NH, who was stationed on Fishers Island while serving in the US Navy. They were married on Fishers Island on December 11th 1948. Dean predeceased her in 2005. After living on Fishers Island for several years, she and Dean moved to Norwich, CT, then to Preston, CT, where they raised a family and she remained for the rest of her life. Margaret was predeceased by a brother, Paul Smith, of Gales Ferry, and has a sister-in-law, Ellen Smith, of Gales Ferry, CT She is survived by a daughter, Nancy Schrader, and Nancy’s husband Russell of Lisbon, CT, as well as by a son, Jeffrey Lockwood, and his wife Maria, of Danbury, CT, along with a grandson Justin Lockwood and a granddaughter Jessica Lockwood, both living in Alabama, and many nieces and nephews. Margaret enjoyed traveling, and visited numerous countries with her family. She was a member of Lee Memorial United Methodist Church for over 50 years, and cherished the lifelong friends she had there, who will miss her dearly. Her family would like to thank the medical staff at Backus Hospital, especially the nursing staff on the E3 unit, for their compassion and excellent care during her recent illness. Cummings – Gagne Funeral Home on 82 Cliff St., Norwich, CT is in charge of arrangements. Calling hours will be at the funeral home on Wednesday July 23rd from 6 PM to 8PM. Her funeral service will be at Lee Memorial United Methodist Church, 294 Washington St., Norwich, CT at 10:00AM on July 24th. Burial will follow in Maplewood Cemetery. To share a condolence with the family please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lee Memorial United Methodist Church in her memory.
Rose Semmelrock
Will be available soon
Rosemarie Semmelrock
Rose Marie (Spicer) Semmelrock – 76 of Bozrah passed away on July 27, 2014 at William W. Backus Hospital after losing a heroic battle to cancer, with her family by her side. Rose Marie was predeceased by her husband Harold E. Semmelrock and her parents George and Rose A. (Hachey) Spicer. She leaves behind a brother Ronald Spicer and his wife Patricia of Oakdale, CT, a son Harold G. Semmelrock of Gilman, a daughter Cathy Semmelrock Capsalors and her husband Michael, along with a grandson Jonathan all of New Britain, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews; and her canine boys Coco and Lucky. Rose Marie was employed by the Town of Bozrah-Board of Education at Fields Memorial School in the cafeteria for several years. Rose Marie’s family was her life and her occupation. She was a passionate, caring and generous individual, always putting the needs of others before her own. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Rose Marie unselfishly cared for her husband Harold, enduring the hardships of the disease that finally took his life, while at the same time being diagnosed with cancer herself. Rose Marie’s life will always be remembered as the glue that held the family together, her spirit will live on eternally and continue to nurture all those that loved her. Rose Marie Spicer was married to Harold E. Semmelrock on July 23, 1955. They were each other’s soul mate and their love for each other was eternal.
John “Jack” Gromko
John “Jack” Francis Gromko November 24, 1927 – July 29, 2014 Norwich – Jack went home to God on July 29, 2014 in his home surrounded by his loving family. Jack was born in Norwich to Anthony G. and Mildred (Brennan) Gromko. He was a loving, caring husband and father who loved solving problems both at home and work. He enjoyed carpentry, numismatic and baking which was enjoyed by all. On April 19, 1952 he married Theresa Tombari at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. He was a WWII Army Veteran and worked at Norwich Public Utilities starting out as a lineman and rising to Asst. Superintendant of the Electric Department. He retired in 1982. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, their three children, John H. Gromko and Teresa A. Gromko of Norwich, James P. Gromko and wife Tina of Hanover, daughter in-law Nina Gromko Brown and husband James. Five granddaughters, Rachael Blackburn, Angela Gromko Stephanie Gromko, Gabrielle Gromko, Jennifer Gromko Shafer and husband Peter, three great grandchildren Brianna Whiteman, Maximus and Allyanna Shafer, brother David Gromko and wife Kisae of St. Petersburgs, FL, numerous nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by infant daughter Theresa M. Gromko and son Anthony (Tony) Gromko and brothers William, James, Anthony and Robert Gromko. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Center for Hospice Care 227 Dunham St. Norwich, CT 06360. There are no calling hours and burial will be private. To share a condolence with the family please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com.
Patrick Donahue
Patrick Cowan Donahue October 21, 1959 – Aug. 9, 2014 Groton, CT – Patrick is a proud member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation of Shawnee, OK. He was predeceased by his mother Donna Smith, brothers; Michael and Timothy Donahue, sister; Megan Donahue and niece Nicole Predmore Fellows. Patrick is survived by his father, John Donahue of Albuquerque, New Mexico and his two sisters; Erin Fox and Catherine Donahue of Norwich, CT. Uncle Pat was also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2014 from 1 – 2PM at the Groton Regency Retirement Section 1145 Poquonnock Rd. Groton in the Great room. Interment will be private with the family. A special thanks to all the staff and residents of the Groton Regency Retirement Center. To share a condolence with the family please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com.
Harold Semmelrock
Harold E. Semmelrock -81 of Bozrah passed away on April 26, 2014 in the Norwichtown Rehabilitation and Care Center with his family by his side. Predeceased by his father Edward E., mother Louise (Bradlaw) Semmelrock, brothers, Robert and Leonard, sisters Priscilla, Arlene (Sienko) & Charlotte. He is survived by siblings, Wilfred and Paul Semmelrock, a son Harold G. Semmelrock of Bozrah, a daughter Cathy Semmelrock Capsalors and her husband Michael of New Britian, a grandson Jonathan Capsalors and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Harold served his country honorably from 1952 to 1960 in the United States Marine Corp. obtaining rank of Corporal, receiving commendations for Good Conduct and Korean, UN and National Defense Services. He retired from the Town of Bozrah Department of Public Works after 30 years of service on July 6, 2001 which was proclaimed Harold G. Semmelrock Day in Bozrah. He was instrumental in the construction of the Senior Center and development of the Bozrah Little League. His masonry and construction skills have left a footprint throughout the many walls and structures in the town of Bozrah. Harold was a member of the America Legion Post 4 of Laurel Hill and an auxiliary member of the Franklin Volunteer Fire Department. Harold was a gentle, kind soul. He was always appreciative and grateful for what life had to offer. He loved fishing, trapping and gardening in his spare time. His talents, skills and knowledge were a priceless gift. His smile would light up the room and comfort all that knew him. A memorial service will be held at 12p.m. Saturday, September 7th at Cummings-Gagne Funeral Home on 82 Cliff Street, Norwich with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. until time of service. Burial will immediately follow at Johnson Cemetery, Schwartz Road, Bozrah.
Jeremiah Mahoney
Jeremiah J. Mahoney IV Montville – Jeremiah Joseph Mahoney IV died Tuesday, August 19, 2014 unexpectedly at his home in Montville. He was born in Norwich on August 20, 1963 son of Jeremiah J. Mahoney III of Leesburg, FL and Muriel (Chartier) Mahoney of Chattanooga, TN. Jeremiah graduated from the Norwich Free Academy Class of 1981 and served his country honorably in the United States Navy during hostilities with Lebanon. He was employed as a boiler technician at the Electric Boat Co. in Groton. In addition to his parents Jeremiah is survived by two brothers and their wives, Joseph Edward and Ann Mahoney of Orlando, FL and Rick Paul and Christine Mahoney of Chattanooga, TN, three nephews Tyler Mahoney, Juan Mahoney and Joshua Mahoney, a niece Katie Mahoney and a great niece Lily Hill. A visitation will be held on Sunday, August 24, 2014 from 6 to 7:30pm followed by a memorial service at 7:30pm at the Cummings – Gagne Funeral Home 82 Cliff St. Norwich, CT. Interment will be private. To share a condolence with the family please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com.
Jason Gowlis
Jason Charles Gowlis Oakdale, CT – Jason Charles Gowlis, 38 died unexpectedly Tuesday, August 26, 2014 at his home in Oakdale. Jason was born in Waterbury, CT on July 21, 1976. He was raised in Scotland, CT by his parents, Debra (Frappier) and Roland Gerard Morin. He was predeceased by his father John V. Gowlis. On May 7, 1995 he was united in marriage to Victoria (Vourtsis) in Scotland. Vickie Gowlis survives her husband of nineteen years. Jason worked all his life in construction and unafraid to take on any project. Aside from his family Jason passions were for hunting, fishing, camping and riding his motorcycle. He was always looking to assist anybody that needed help. Mr. Gowlis was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose, Lodge 950 in Bozrah and was also a member of the National Rifle Association. In addition to his wife and parents, Jason is survived by a son, Alexander N. Gowlis and a daughter Athena V. Gowlis both of Oakdale, CT, his siblings Jonathan , Melissa (Kyle), Matt, Sean, Johnny, Tommy, Shannon and Ray; his mother and father in law, George anad Eleni Vourtsis, step sisters Kim and Amanda, brother in law, Taki, sister in law Michelle and many nieces and nephews.
John Higley
John Wesley Higley John Wesley Higley, 79, of Uncasville, formerly of Manchester, died peacefully at his home on Sunday, August 31, 2014. He was the husband of Joyce (Kenyon) Higley. John was born May 9, 1935 in Hartford, CT, a son of the late Robert and Nettie (Tetro) Higley. John served in the Air Force, from 1955-1959. He was an aeronautic mechanic with the 525th Fighter Squadron based in Bitburg, Germany. He was employed as an iron worker and welder before his retirement in 1990. John was a member of the Andover Sportsman Club and the Quaker Hill Rod and Gun Club. John loved working with his hands. He could often be found weaving Nantucket baskets of all shapes and sizes or restoring vintage canoes in his garage. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed trap shooting, hunting and fishing. In addition to his wife he was survived by his 4 children, Laura Wilkens of New Fairfield, Kristina Carpenter of Newington, Jay Higley of Willington and Alyssa Fogg and her husband Tom of Homedale, Idaho. Grampi Grump will be missed by 8 grandchildren; Edward Carpenter and his wife Heather, Jonathan Carpenter, Sarah, Melissa and Jenna Higley, Andrew Wilkens, Aidan and Isabelle Fogg, and 2 great-grandchildren Teddy and Brooke Carpenter. He is also survived by his sister Ruth Poglitsch and brothers Charles Higley and Billy Higley; foster sister, Dorothy “Dot” Moseley, and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his much loved Golden Retrievers Luna and Jupiter. In addition to his parents John was predeceased by his two sisters, Edna and Nettie and five brothers, Robert, Earle, Harry, Henry and Howard who was killed in action during the Korean Conflict. He was also predeceased by his foster parents Raymond & Isabelle (Prentice) Jewell. Family and Friends are invited to attend a visitation on Saturday, September 6, 2014 from 1p.m. to 4p.m. at the Cummings-Gagne Funeral Home 82 Cliff St. Norwich, CT 06360. To share a condolence or for directions please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue, Inc., P.O. Box 808, Hudson, MA 01749-0808
Cathy Przekop
Cathy L. Przekop Norwich – Cathy Lynn Przekop 54, of Pratte Ave. Taftville died unexpectedly Thursday, July 10, 2014 at her home. She was born in Norwich on February 16, 1960 daughter of Jean Marie (St. Germain) Topalis of Norwich and the late Andrew P. Przekop. Cathy worked for many years as a well known cashier at the A&P Supermarket, Starrwood Market and most recently at Stop and Shop Supermarket in Norwich. She was always happy and quick with a smile, she loved her customers and all people she would meet. Cathy was an avid reader and was talented in crochet and knitting. In addition to her mother, Cathy is survived by her siblings, Andrew P. Przekop of Hanover, Nancy Lawson of Ledyard and Dennis Przekop of Taftville, her nieces and nephews, Benjamin Lawson, Jason Przekop, Tabatha Powell, Sarah Przekop, Amanda Przekop and Nathan Przekop, three grand niece and nephews, Jasmine Lawson, Conall Powell and Liam Powell and her sweet, loving Cat, Cuddles. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2014 at 9:00AM at Sacred Heart Church 156 Providence St. Taftville, CT. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Norwich. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her name to Kitty Harbor 2263 Glasgo Road Jewett City, CT 06351. To share a condolence please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com.
Gerald Twomey
GERALD Francis “GUS” TWOMEY (9/22/1918- 9/11/2014) died peacefully on September 11, 2014, at Harrington Court where he resided for the last year and a half. He was born on September 22, 1918 in Norwich, Connecticut, the 6th of nine children of Thomas and Margaret Twomey, from Ballydehob, Ireland. As a child, he attended St. Patrick’s Elementary School and NFA. He was drafted early in January, 1942, and was sent to Fort Bragg, NC for Basic Training and advanced training as an Artilleryman. Upon completion of his training, he was sent to Camp Blanding, FL to join the 1st Infantry Division – the “Big Red One” — and subsequently served in battles on Omaha Beach, Kasserene Pass in North Africa, Operation Husky in Sicily, and the Battle of the Bulge. He was the recipient of two Bronze stars and a Silver Star and was cited in the Congressional Record as a hero. After declining an appointment to West Point at the end of the war, Gus returned to Norwich, Connecticut and on June 24, 1946 married his high school sweetheart, Eileen Rathbun. He was employed by Norwich Public Utilities for 38 years until his retirement. He is predeceased by his wife of 66 years, and his 8 siblings, as well as numerous, nieces and nephews. He is survived by his five children: Catherine Fosnot of New London, CT; Mary Ellen Zoerner of Lewis Center, Ohio; John Twomey (Karen) of Norwich CT; Michael Twomey (Gail Whitney) of Preston CT; and Meg Ceccarelli of Norwich CT, as well as 8 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren. Visiting hours will be held at Cummings-Gagne Funeral Home, 82 Cliff St. Norwich, CT Sunday evening from 5 to 7pm with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11AM on Monday 9/15 at St Peter and Paul’s Church in Norwich. Burial with Military Honors to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Sts. Peter and Paul Church 181 Elizabeth St. Norwich, CT 06360 or the American Cancer Society 825 Brook St., Rocky Hill, CT 06067. To share a condolence or for more information please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com.
Lewis Randall
Lewis Everett Randall, Sr. Lewis E. Randall, Sr., 77, of Vernon, CT, passed peacefully on Sept. 12, 2014. He was born in Norwich, CT on August 27, 1937 to Vernon Marcellus and Beatrice Louise (Lewis) Randall, Sr. Lew was educated in the Norwich School system graduating from Norwich Free Academy in 1955. Lew excelled at an early age as a scholar and athlete as well as developed his talents as a musician and composer playing the organ and piano. He was elected Senior Class President and has continually served his classmates and his dearly beloved NFA in many capacities. He was an accomplished baseball, football, basketball and tennis contender and was named to the Norwich Free Academy, Thamesville Athletic Club, and Springfield College Halls of Fame. Lew was offered a contract to play baseball out of high school for the Brooklyn Dodgers. He instead chose to accept a scholarship from AIC. Lew also played minor league baseball for the Cleveland Indians and Washington Senators. Lew received his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from American International College, attended the Brook Army Medical Hospital while in the US Army Reserves where he became a medical and social specialist; earned a Masters’ in Education from Springfield College, and a PhD from the University of Connecticut. Lew worked at many diversified part-time jobs during high school and college. Lew started his career path as a Rehab Counselor for the states of CT and MA. He was a consultant for the Bureau of Vocational Technical schools proposing the original Transition to Work Program for all students. He served in various Directorship positions with Windham Tech, Ellis Tech, Prince Tech, and finally Cheney Tech before retiring in 1997. Lew also served as Interim Principal at Bentley Alternative School in Manchester. The Norwich Rotary Club and The Women’s City Club of Norwich in recognition of Lew’s life-long achievements presented him with the Norwich Native Son Award for the year 1984. Lew was a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Sigma Pi Phi Boule, Hartford Jazz Society, and an Elder in the Eastern Pequot Tribal Nation. He served on Boards of the following: The Norwich Free Academy Alumni, American International College, Norwich Historical Society, CT Employee Association, Hartford Jazz Society, Tennis Unlimited and others. Lew leaves to mourn a great loss, his loving wife, Helen Huchinson Randall; his daughter Yolanda Graham; sons Lewis E. Randall, Jr. and his wife Sarah, and Keith Randall; grandson Kristofer; granddaughter Savannah; a dear sister, Norma C. Parrish; a brother, Vernon M. Randall, Jr. and his wife Jacquelyn; Brother-in-law John Armstrong; nephews, Stephen, John and his wife Melanie, nieces Valerie and Kimberly. He was predeceased by both of his parents; his sister Verna Louise Randall and Beatrice Randall Armstrong; brother-in-law Andrew Parrish, Sr.; and nephew, Andrew Parrish, Jr. Calling hours will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2014 from 10 to 11a.m. at the United Congregational Church 87 Broadway, Norwich, CT 06360. The funeral service will follow at 11a.m. at the church. Burial will be at Maplewood Cemetery in Norwich. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to the NFA Foundation, 321 Broadway, Norwich, CT 06360 where a scholarship has been established in his memory. To share condolences online or for more information, please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com.
Paul Woodward
Paul A. Woodward October 21, 1938 – September 15, 2014 Paul A. Woodward, 75, of Bozrah, died on Monday, September 15, 2014. He was born October 21, 1938, in Rutland, Vermont, the son of the late Paul A. and Rachel (Harmon) Woodward. He grew up in Springfield, VT, where he attended the local schools. After graduating from Springfield High School in 1957, he attended Bentley College in Boston, MA. On December 18, 1960, he married his high school sweetheart, Joanne Edson. After a two year stint in the US Army, the couple located in Connecticut, where Paul found employment at United Nuclear Corp in Montville, working there for 31 years. Despite poor health, Paul remained active. He enjoyed several outdoor activities – tennis, skiing, mountain climbing, hiking. He completed the Long Trail in Vermont, nearly reached the summit of the Grand Teton in Wyoming, hiked several miles on the Appalachian Trail, rafted the Grand Canyon, and climbed the 100 highest peaks in New England. He especially enjoyed the several years when he and his wife served as volunteers at Baxter State Park in Maine. He was an active member of Lee Memorial Church, where, over the years, he served on several committees. He is survived by his wife, Joanne, his daughter, Jill Woodward of Norwich, his sister Phyllis Pratt of Oakland, CA, nephew John Rudis of Kansas City, MO, several cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his son Robert. Calling hours will be at the Cummings- Gagne Funeral home (Cliff St; Norwich CT) on Friday, September 26, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Burial will be at the Bozrah Rural Cemetery on Saturday, September 27 at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at Lee Memorial United Methodist Church (284 Washington St. in Norwich, CT). In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Friends of Baxter, P.O. box 609, Union ME 04862. He will be sorely missed by his wife and daughter, his extended family, and his many friends. To send a condolence, please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com.
Obuse Iweriebor
Norwich, CT – Obuse E. Iweriebor, 64 died Wednesday, September 17, 2014 at the William W. Backus Hospital in Norwich. He was born in Nigeria son of the late Phillip Iyare and Alice Iweriebor. Obuse obtained his Bachelor’s degree in mining at the University of Wisconson in Platteville, WI and received his Master’s degree in Engineering at the Fenn College of Engineering at Cleveland State University. He worked as Director of Circulation at the Norwich Bulletin and also worked at The Press Enterprise in Riverside, CA and The Sun in San Bernardino, CA. He was united in marriage to Gayla McGhee in Cleveland, OH. Mrs. Iweriebor survives her husband of 37 years. Obuse was a beloved, dedicated and devoted son, brother, husband, father, uncle and friend. A MAN OF GREAT LOVE AND INTEGRITY, HE BROUGHT LIFE AND JOY TO ALL THOSE HE ENCOUNTERED. HIS PRESENCE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED. In addition to his wife he is survived by a son Iyare Iweriebor of CA, a daughter and her husband, Ebere and Alex Lima of Atlanta, GA and a son Ehika Iweriebor of CA; AS WELL AS SIX BROTHERS, FOUR SISTERS and TWO SISTER-IN-LAWS IN THE U.S. AND NIGERIA. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 25 at the Lee Memorial United Methodist Church 294 Washington St. Norwich, CT 06360 at 11AM with a reception to follow. Burial will take place at a later date in San Bernardino, CA. to share a condolence with the family please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com.
Frank Slaga
Frank T. Slaga 1926 – 2014 Norwich, CT- Frank T. Slaga of Norwich passed away, Thursday, September 25 at the W.W. Backus Hospital in Norwich. He was born in Norwich in 1926 son of the late John and Mary (Zelinsky) Slaga. After the passing of his father, when he was 15 years old, Frank left High School to help his mother by working at the Strand Theater and Electric Boat Co. until he was drafted in World War II in the Army. He served from 1944 to Jan. 18, 1947 in the 385th Antitank Co. of the 76th division. He was a fourth tech mission grade and holds the combat infantry badge, Bronze Star, E.T.O. Medal, World War II Victory Medal, Good Conduct and Army of Occupational Medal. Frank was trained thru the State and Army in commercial printing at Pullen Press where he earned his certificate of apprentice-ship from the State of CT on Oct. 29, 1951 from the Labor Commissioner, J. Egan. He retired from Robertson Paperbox and later, Rand-Whitney after 32 years as a pressman. After retiring he continued commercial printing as a hobby for his enjoyment. Frank loved to bowl with Senior League Ten Pin and Divine Providence Church Bowling League. He was a member of Norwich D.A.V., Chapter 10, V.F.W. 10060 of Montville. Frank chaired the placing of flags on Memorial Day for many years. Mr. Slaga married the love of his life of 65 years, Rose Gualtieri Slaga at St. Patrick Cathedral in Norwich on Feb. 12, 1949. They have two wonderful sons and a daughter, John Slaga and daughter-in-law, Jean of Palm Coast, Florida, Frank Slaga, Jr. of Bellevue, Washington and Gina Shallcross and son-in-law, Randy Shallcross of Niantic, CT, two wonderful grandchildren, Jeremy Slaga of Atlanta, Georgia and Jasmine Slaga of Palm Coast, Florida and nieces and nephews. Frank was predeceased by three brothers, William Slaga, Tom Slaga and John Slaga, 5 sisters, Theresa Slaga, Anne Slaga, Florence Lach, Leocadia Wisniewski and Carol Chalecki. The family wishes to thank Dr. Paul Deutsch of Norwich for his compassion and kindness in the time of need. A visitation will be held on Monday, September 29, 2014 from 6 to 8PM at the Cummings-Gagne Funeral Home, 82 Cliff St. Norwich, CT. A funeral service will be on Tuesday at 11AM at the Divine Providence Church 11 Silver St. Norwich. Burial will follow, with Military Honors at Maplewood Cemetery in Norwich. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Divine Providence Church 11 Silver St. Norwich, CT 06360 or the D.A.V. Chapter 10 C/O Wilfred I. Wheeler 569 Westminster Road, Canterbury, CT 06331. To share a condolence with the family please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com.
Irene LeBlanc
Irene M. LeBlanc Norwich, CT – Irene M. LeBlanc, 83, formerly of Hunter’s Road died Sunday, September 28, 2014 at Kindred Crossing East in New London. She was born in Plainfield, CT on December 19, 1931 daughter of the late Frank and Irene (Payne) Cleveland. Irene graduated from Norwich Free Academy Class of 1949 and worked as a Hospital Administrator for most of her life. Mrs. LeBlanc was predeceased by her husband Andrew LeBlanc who died, October 29, 2003. She was a communicant of St. Patrick Cathedral in Norwich. Irene is survived by her daughter Karen Hahn and her husband Hal Hahn of Lyme, CT, two grandchildren, Erin McMahon of New Haven, CT and Sean McMahon of Lyme, CT. Mrs. LeBlanc was predeceased by one brother, Frank Cleveland. The funeral will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2014 at 1:30PM at the Cummings-Gagne Funeral Home 82 Cliff St., Norwich, CT. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Norwich. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Wednesday from 1:00PM till the time of the service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Center for Hospice Care 227 Dunham St. Norwich, CT 06360. To share condolences with the family please visit, www.cummings-gagnefh.com.