Obituaries & Tributes

John Julius Bernard was born on April 12, 1932 in Siparia Trinidad W.I. to Fautina and Patrick Bernard. John grew up in very humble beginnings. He worked very hard in his youth, and ultimately became a forest ranger for many years in Trinidad. He later moved to the United States and became an American Citizen. John was passionate about education, and with discipline and determination, he taught himself to study for the GED, and passed. He later took a job as a hospital custodian by day, mopping floors, and cleaning toilets while also working as a security guard at night. While working at the hospital, he met and later married the late Margret Bernard in June of 1970. They resided in Stamford Connecticut until her death. John was so passionate about education, that despite his busy work schedule, he enrolled in a local college part-time, and eventually earned his Bachelor’s Degree. He later went on to earn two Master’s Degrees, one being in Psychology. Ultimately, he became a college Professor, and taught at Norwalk College in Connecticut. John absolutely loved teaching and encouraged his students to not give up on pursing their dreams and goals. He was also a devout Christian who truly loved reading the Bible. He often told his late sister Maizey, that he had read the Bible in its entirety, from Genesis to Revelation, over five times! John went home to be with the Lord at the age of 93, and is predeceased by his wife Margret, brothers Norman and Toussaint, and sisters Merle and Maizey. He leaves to cherish his memory: his niece Michelle, and a host of other nieces, nephews, family and friends. Family and friends may call at the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford, CT on Saturday, March 29, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, with a service being held at the funeral home at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery, Darien. To leave online condolences, please visit www.cognetta.com.

Peter Joseph Loughran, Sr. (aka, Pete, Dad, Coach, and Grandpa or Poppy), ninety-one, of Stamford, Connecticut, passed from this life to the next life on March 16, 2025, peacefully and of natural causes. Born on January 11, 1934, in Stamford, Pete was the son of Patrick and Mary Ellen Loughran (née Mallon). He spent the last weeks of his life here on earth surrounded by Barbara, his loving wife of sixty-three years, his six children, and his eighteen grandchildren. Pete was a graduate of Stamford High School, where, among other things, he was a standout on the baseball and basketball teams. A college graduate of St. Mary’s Seminary & University in Baltimore, Maryland, he went on to complete his graduate studies in history, education and administration at Fairfield University. Pete served in the U.S. Army National Guard. A man of myriad talents, jobs, and interests, at his core Pete was a teacher and coach. He taught Latin and history in Stamford area schools for more than thirty years, retiring in 1992. After retirement, he continued his calling as a substitute teacher. During his years of teaching, he coached basketball, baseball, and soccer, as well as youth basketball teams. Pete was also a long-time referee and umpire in Fairfield County sports leagues for basketball, baseball, soccer, and volleyball. For many summers while he was teaching, he owned and operated the St. Mary’s and Knollwood day camps. Adding to his long resume, Pete represented clients as a real estate broker for many years, including after his so-called retirement. Pete was an athlete and, as an outstanding baseball pitcher, drew interest from the Dodgers and Tigers organizations. During his university days and for many years thereafter, Pete played baseball in the Stamford Twilight League, and he also pitched for the Port Chester All Stars team. He and his brother Michael were proud battery mates with the Knights of Columbus team. In his retirement years, Pete became an enthusiastic golfer and worked as a ranger at the Sterling Farms golf course in Stamford. He was inducted into the Stamford Old Timers Athletic Association Honor Roll for his athletic successes and his commitment to youth sports as a coach and an official. Pete was a dedicated Catholic who truly lived the Gospel. He loved and respected all people, regardless of their station in life. He was a member of the St. Augustine Knights of Columbus Stamford and the Stamford Ancient Order of Hibernians. In addition, Pete was an avid gardener and keeper of fruit trees, often comparing his harvests with those of his father-in-law and his children who followed in his gardening footsteps. Of all his jobs, achievements, and interests, by far Pete’s greatest pride and highest joy, what he truly lived for, were his six children and eighteen grandchildren. He took tremendous pride in the lives of his children and grandchildren, and, in his magical, selfless way, he would make every one of them feel unique and incredibly special with each interaction. His love was (and is) indivisible and ongoing. Pete is survived by his wife, Barbara Drenckhahn; Rosemary and Stephen Samoskevich and their children, Helen and Luke; Peter and Ann Van Gessel and their children, Brendan, Margaret, and Kathleen; John and Amanda Wolf and their children, Brooke, Mackenzie, and Jake; Barbara Loughran and her children, Sean and Daniel McLoughlin; Terrence and Deborah Meck and their children, Katherine, Ryan, Kelly, and Andrew; Dr. Timothy and Dr. Diane Turcot and their children, Gabriella, Audrey, Charles, and Justin; and his cousin Jimmy Mallon, a great many nieces and nephews, and beloved in-laws. He is predeceased by his sister, Catherine, and brothers Patrick, John, James, and Michael. Pete’s wake will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home, 104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford, Connecticut from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Leo Parish, 24 Roxbury Road, Stamford, Connecticut. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Peter J. Loughran’s name may be directed to the Stamford Hospital Foundation, 3001 Summer Street, 2nd Floor, Stamford, Connecticut 06905 or online at www.stamfordhospitalfoundation.org, and the Stamford Ancient Order of Hibernians, 186 Greyrock Place, Stamford, Connecticut 06901, www.stamfordaoh.com.

Thomas M. Ferraro, born June 29, 1933, passed away peacefully on the early morning of Saturday, March 15, 2025. Thomas was born in Brooklyn, NY to the late Mariano "Murray" and Mildred (Pisano) Ferraro. Thomas was 91 years old at the time of his passing. Thomas was a 1951 graduate of La Salle Academy, N.Y. He continued his education at Fordham University, N.Y., earning both a BA degree and MS degree. He served in the Army of the United States from 1958 until he was Honorably Discharged in 1962. Thomas continued his career as an insurance executive for the Chicago Title Insurance Company for over 40 years. He is survived by his daughters, Lisa Welch with her husband Lawrence, Susan Johnson and husband Glen; along with his 3 grandchildren: Emily and Thomas Johnson, and Catherine Welch. There will be no calling hours. Services for Thomas will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 at www.stjude.org/donate. The Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to assist the family with the arrangements. To leave online condolences visit the guestbook hosted on www.Cognetta.com.

Nuestro Mario Morales Jaramillo, luchador, carismático, lleno de alegría, quien le encantaba bromear, disfrutar su vida, pasar en familia , darse un whiskey (Double Black Johnnie Walker), coger sol lleno de coca cola, las parrilladas y los mariscos. Si conociste a Mario muy bien sabes que no podia terminar la noche sin asignar apodos. Un año y medio luchando por su vida a querer seguir viviendo juntos en familia como el siempre lo decía. Fue un duro proceso, guardábamos la esperanza de tenerlo por más tiempo, fue un guerrero y lucho hasta lo último. Pero ahora ya está en manos de su barbudo, que mi Sr todo poderoso lo tenga en su santa gloria y descanse en paz . Un dolor inmenso para quienes lo amamos en vida. De parte de su amada esposa , Estela Zavala Hijos: Karla , Ely y Mario Tom Copy link to donate, thank you https://www.gofundme.com/f/cn7pfd-mario-morales?attribution_id=sl:43631bfd-c1ee-452a-b4a9-050317b303b5&lang=en_US&utm_campaign=man_ss_icons&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link

Sonya Corrente, born October 22, 1941, passed away peacefully at her home on March 4, 2025, with her beloved family by her side. Sonya was born in Stamford, CT to the late Charles and Olga (Boshko) Bialczak. Sonya was a beautiful person inside and out. Her radiant smile and sparkling blue eyes lit up every room she entered. Sonya was known for her kind, loving, caring, and humorous personality. Sonya lived life to the fullest and especially loved spending time with her family and friends. She was an excellent cook and a gifted needlepointer. A 50-year tradition that Sonya and Frank cherished were the trips they took to Saratoga, NY. She also enjoyed an “occasional” trip to the casino. Although Sonya is gone, she will live in our hearts forever. Sonya will be dearly missed by her husband, Frank R. Corrente. Together they celebrated a remarkable 54 years of marriage. Sonya’s love extended to her daughters Tracey Murphy (Doug) and Alyse McEwen (Doug), and her son Christopher Corrente. She was adored by and affectionately known as “Greeka” to her grandchildren Amy Rowan (Gabe), Matthew McEwen, Peter and Jeffery Murphy, and Blake Corrente, and her great-grandchildren Eli, Dylan, and Margot. Sonya was predeceased by her sister, Barbra Bialczak. Sonya’s family would like to extend many thanks to her Hospice team who lovingly cared for her during her final days. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on March 22, 2025 at 10:30 am at St. John R.C. Church, 1986 Post Road, Darien, CT. The inurnment will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery in Darien. In lieu of flowers donations in Sonya’s name may be made to Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Waveny, 22 Danbury Road, Wilton, CT 06987. The Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to assist the family with the arrangements. To leave online condolences visit the guestbook hosted on www.Cognetta.com.

William W. Frayer passed away on February 8, 2025, at age 80 after a long illness. He was surrounded by his children and his aides in his final days at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco, NY. Bill was born in Syracuse, NY on September 11, 1944, to Leon Webster (Web) Frayer and Esther (Dodd) Frayer. Raised in Schenectady and Endwell, NY Bill attended Cornell University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering in 1966, a master’s in electrical engineering in 1968, and in 1972 graduated from Weill Cornell Medical College (formerly Cornell University Medical College). He remained at Weill Cornell Medical College where he continued into an internship and residency program in pediatrics and later a fellowship in neonatology. He stayed in New York City after his medical training, splitting his time between New York City and a home in Pound Ridge, NY. Bill spent his entire career at Weill Cornell/New York Presbyterian Hospital as an associate professor of clinical pediatrics in neonatology. He loved taking care of babies and loved teaching the next generations of doctors. In his 37 years as an attending physician, he trained over 100 fellows, and countless residents and nurse practitioners. Bill hoped to be remembered for his work as a professor. He had a deep interest in computing and acted as the director of clinical information systems at New York Presbyterian Hospital, helping to make New York Presbyterian one of the first hospitals in the country to move from paper to electronic medical records. This work led to travels around the world, most memorably Japan, France and Australia, to teach other hospitals about how to make the transition to electronic medical records. Bill’s interests were broad and deep—from programming computers to playing the piano and organ, building and playing harpsichords, collecting stamps, wood working, quilting, needlepoint, making stained glass, teaching himself calligraphy, repairing and selling fountain pens, and collecting what seemed to be every classical music CD ever made—he was a true Renaissance man. Bill is survived by his two children, Elizabeth, of New York City, and Eric, of Los Angeles, his daughter-in-law Sarah Frayer, three grandchildren, Theodore and Elliott Frayer and Wilhelmina Milnes, his former wife Joyce Frayer, brother-in-law James Hyla, and many nieces and nephews. His sister, Sharon Hyla, predeceased him. A wake will be held Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 12-2pm at the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home (104 Myrtle Ave, Stamford, CT 06902) with a prayer service to begin at 2PM at the parlor. Burial will follow. In remembrance of Bill’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Cornell’s NICU where he spent his career and where his granddaughter was so lovingly cared for. Checks may be made to “Perinatology Fund” and in the memo, “In memory of Dr. Frayer” and mailed to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Attn: Nazera Pasha, 525 East 68th Street, Box 106, New York, NY 10065.

Steven Dorso, born March 7, 1943, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 3, 2025, at the age of 81. Steve was born in Brooklyn, NY, and was the only child born to the late Gerald and Harriet (Sucolski) Dorso. Steve grew up on Long Island in Valley Stream, NY and enjoyed many summers at YMCA Camp Greenkill in Huguenot, NY. Steve attended Valley Stream North High and always looked forward to the many high school reunions where he would reconnect with old friends. After high school, Steve graduated from SUNY Farmingdale, where he majored in Advertising Art & Design and bonded with lifelong friends, including Eileen, whom he married in 1965. After college, Steve worked as a designer at various advertising agencies in Manhattan. In 1973, he joined Longines Direct Marketing and the Capitol Record Club as Senior Art Director and Creative Director. He then moved with his family to Stamford, CT. Shortly after, Steve proudly started his own company, Dorso Creative Group, specializing in direct marketing and graphic design. He built the business over the next years with Eileen and his daughter Andrea until his retirement in 2021. Steve commuted into Manhattan from Springdale train station for over 30 years, chatting the whole way with his “train buddies.” Steve enjoyed many hobbies throughout the years. He was a self-taught woodworker and created many pieces of fine furniture, which are proudly displayed in the homes of his loved ones. Steve was also an avid cyclist and a member of the Sound Cyclists Bicycle Club, where he formed many friendships. Among his favorite bike memories are the three rides he did from Stamford to Vermont, accompanied by his sons-in-law, who lovingly referred to him as ‘Dors’. Vermont was Steve’s happy place…. This is where he loved to cross country ski, snowshoe, hike and spend cherished weekends with friends and family. Steve loved tending to the fire in the wood stove, enjoying the mountain view and watching the grandkids sled down the big hill. Steve loved to talk with friends, often about cars or politics, and had a one-of-a-kind sense of humor. He could always be counted on to insert a bad pun, corny joke or break into a tv commercial jingle. Steve’s greatest source of joy and pride was his family, especially his four grandkids. Steve is survived by his wife of 59 years, Eileen Dorso (Goss); two daughters and their husbands, Susan Sottile and husband Tom and Andrea Reilly and husband Bob; his beloved grandchildren, Michael and Abigail Sottile and Julia and Peyton Reilly; his brother-in-law, Edward Goss and his wife Scottie; his sister-in-law, Susan Goss; and many nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Robert Goss. The family wishes to extend its appreciation to the professional and caring staff at Benchmark at Stamford for their compassionate care. Friends and family may attend a celebration of Steve’s life on Saturday, February 22nd, from 12:00pm to 3:00pm at the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Avenue, in Stamford, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations in Steven’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org/donate or to No Kid Hungry at www.nokidhungry.org/donate. The Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to assist the Dorso family with the arrangements. To leave online messages of condolence, please visit the guestbook hosted on www.Cognetta.com.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Henry W. Turner, Jr. on December 23, 2024, at the age of 71. Born on October 3, 1953, to Henry and Ada Turner, Henry graduated from Port Chester High School in 1972. A lifelong lover of music, he began playing the drums at a young age and joined the high school marching band. One of his most cherished memories from this time was performing in the Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena, CA. After high school, Henry went on to join the Stateliners Drum and Bugle Corps, where he played in the quartet and earned a first-place finish in a competition. It was also during this time that he met the love of his life. In November 1975, Henry married Ann Sudell, and together they shared 49 beautiful years. Their love was nothing short of magical, and it was evident to all who knew them. You could hardly find one without the other, whether they were spending time at "The Hangout," watching reruns of their favorite shows, or enjoying a game of backgammon with a Bloody Mary in hand. Their bond was a true inspiration. Together, they raised two daughters, Dena and Melissa, and Henry’s love for his family knew no bounds. While Henry will be remembered as a devoted husband and father, he was also a treasured friend. His warmth and kindness touched everyone he met. Beyond his passion for music, Henry was an avid bowler, competing in numerous leagues and traveling to Reno with lifelong friends he made at the lanes. Henry is survived by his beloved wife, Ann Turner; his daughters, Dena Ritter and her husband Jay, Melissa Hainsworth and her husband Lenny; and his sister, Denise Turner. He was predeceased by his parents, Henry and Ada Turner. Family and friends are invited to offer their condolences to Henry’s family on Saturday, January 4, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Ave., Stamford, CT 06902. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Henry’s name to the Gary Desalvo Memorial Scholarship Fund, which can be accessed via the following link: https://garydesalvomemorial.com/content/?page_id=13

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ann Kane, a lifelong resident of Stamford, who peacefully passed away on Saturday, December 7, 2024, surrounded by her loving family at Stamford Hospital. She was 87 years old. Ann was born on August 20, 1937, in Stamford to the late John and Anna Walsh, along with her twin brother. Ann grew up on Stamford’s East Side and graduated from Stamford High School. It was during her teenage years that she met the love of her life, John Kane. Together, they built a beautiful life, marrying and raising four children. Their adventures took them around the world, but Ann’s heart always belonged to her home on Shippan Point, where she lived for more than 50 years. The memories made there, filled with family and love, will be cherished forever. Ann will be lovingly remembered for her love of reading, her passion for travel, and her unwavering devotion to family and friends. Ann was predeceased by her beloved husband of 58 years, John, in 2017. She is survived by her four children: Karen (Rich) O’Neill, Robert Kane, Susanne (George) Boccuzzi, and Kevin (Mary) Kane; eight grandchildren: Chris O’Neill (Jennifer), Brian O’Neill (Amanda), Daniel Boccuzzi (Stephanie), and Shannon, Kristen, Lauren, Erin, and Kelly Kane; and three great-granddaughters: Harper, Hailey, and Abigail. She is also survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Louise and Ken Hitchcock, and her nephew, Joshua Hitchcock, and several nieces, nephews and extended family. In addition to her parents and husband Ann was preceded in death by her siblings and her dear daughter-in-law, Tracy. “Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed, and very dear.” A mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 27, 2024, at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, 1200 Shippan Avenue, Stamford, CT 06902. The inurnment will be held privately. To leave a message of condolence, please visit the guestbook at www.cognetta.com.

Herbert H. Watson, Jr., a Bethel resident for 60+ years, died peacefully at Stamford Hospital on November 19 after a brief illness. He was 90 years old. He was predeceased by his wife, Carolyn of 56 years and is survived by his 3 sons (all Bethel High School graduates) and their families: Rick of Stamford, CT (wife Laura and daughters Caitrin and Taylor), Ken of Fort Walton Beach, FL (wife Nancy and daughter Shawna) and Jeff of Newtown and Stamford, CT (wife Cory, daughter Alexandra and son Ben). Herb’s calling in life was that of volunteering. After growing up in Norwalk, CT, he enlisted in the US Army at age 18 and fought in Korea. After the war, he and Carolyn married and moved to Bethel in 1960. While a young father, he served as Cub Scout Leader (Pack 51), Boy Scout Leader (Troop 167), Little League Baseball coach and Youth Soccer coach. He and Carolyn were faithful fans at the many Bethel High School and Southern Ct State College sporting events in which their sons participated. Herb gave over 17 gallons of blood at Red Cross blood drives. He ran the Norwalk Industrial Recreation League for many years during his 43-year career as a manager of safety at Nash Engineering in Norwalk. He also served in various capacities at his church (Danbury Church of Christ). In his retirement years Herb cared tirelessly for Carolyn as she struggled with Alzheimer’s disease. After her passing in 2012, Herb took up writing and penned many short memoirs about his life for his family and friends to enjoy. In 2016 he moved to Reynolds Ridge Senior Housing in Bethel and served on the resident advisory board there. At Reynolds Ridge he also met his dear friend and companion Ursula Alling. Herb moved to Brighton Gardens senior community in Stamford in October of this year to be nearer to his family. There he was able to welcome his sons and their families to a large and joyous gathering several weeks prior to his illness and passing. Internment with military honors will take place at Willowbrook Cemetery in Westport, Ct at 11 am on Friday December 13. A luncheon and memorial gathering will follow directly at Towne Parlor (upstairs), 112 Bedford St in Stamford, CT. (A parking lot is available on Spring Street)