John Christopher Silberlicht, of Greenwich, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, June 17. He was 54.

John was predeceased by both his parents, Jack W. Silberlicht (1990), and Patricia Silberlicht (2018), and is survived by his loving sisters, Jane Doyle of Greenwich, CT, Elizabeth Silberlicht of Redondo Beach, CA, and Maria Duncan and her husband Marc, of Woodbury, CT. He is also survived by his nephew, Thomas, and nieces Samantha and Amanda.

John was born in Queens, New York on March 31, 1966 and lived in Greenwich his entire life. He graduated from Greenwich High School in 1985. As an avid cyclist, even before his days at Buzz’s Cycle Shop, he traversed thousands of miles across Connecticut on his many different bicycles, usually adorned with his signature mohawk helmet.

John was never more vibrant than when he was on his bike, talking about biking, or tinkering with bikes, and despite two heart valve replacements, he never went very long without a ride. He was an active and beloved member of the cycling group “Sound Cyclists Bicycle Club” and was not only elated but truly honored when he became a ride leader. John was lauded for his ride leadership skills and his enthusiasm and patience to ride with cyclists of all abilities. Along with the mechanical skills to fix most any problem occurring before or during the rides, it was his humor and giant heart that made riding with John such a memorable experience.

John cherished living in Greenwich and one of his favorite places was Greenwich Point Park. He would ride his bike there as often as he could, regularly stopping to tell a joke or a story and chat with friends and acquaintances, of which he had many.

He was a collector of classic model cars, a music lover, and a dedicated sports fan who fervently followed the New York Mets and the New York Giants, as well as the Kansas City Royals and the New Jersey Devils.
John worked many years in the auto parts industry in sales and delivery and was legendary around town for his quick wit and sense of humor. He eventually found his work family in 1998 at Triple J Auto Parts in Stamford. He followed them into their retail shop, A Buck & Up, where he continuously made customers smile each day.

The family will be receiving guests on Thursday, June 25, 2020 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Castiglione Funeral Home, 544 Old Post Road #3, Greenwich, CT. A brief prayer will be shared at 6:00 p.m. The burial of ashes will be on Friday, June 26, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Putnam Cemetery, 35 Parsonage Road, Greenwich, CT.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Friends of Greenwich Point https://www.friendsofgreenwichpoint.org/donate in John’s honor.

Greenwich Legend Boo Durkin (November 11, 1940-June 11, 2020)

Mary “Boo” Elizabeth Durkin Federman was born Greenwich on November 11, 1940 to parents Mary Elizabeth Dietrich and Charles Durkin. Boo grew up in Greenwich, chose to raise her children there, and proudly remained a lifelong resident of the town.

Always a lover of animals, little Boo and her family kept an impressive menagerie– including beloved dogs, cats, turtles, and a duck named Georgie Porgie (whom she would walk down the street on a leash).

Boo was also a lover of music, and was lucky to come of age in the Rock and Roll era. In her teens and twenties she frequented many historic rock concerts, including Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and The Big Bopper at New York’s Apollo Theater. Her love for music lasted throughout her life, and she instilled this love in her children; Boo’s house was rarely without music playing, and she attended live concerts whenever possible.

In the early 1960s, Boo attended the University of Connecticut at Storrs, and spent some of her favorite college summers on Cape Cod.

Boo as a matter of course always thought of others above herself. She made herself available to friends and anyone in need. Boo was loyal to her friends beyond recognition, and not a day went by without her putting the needs of everyone she loved above her own.

One of her greatest passions was charitable work, to which she dedicated her entire life. Over the years she was instrumental in running many large non-profit events including (to name just a few) Great Chefs for Greenwich Hospital, an epic carnival in Havemeyer Park to benefit The Mews senior home, summer pops concerts in Roger Sherman Park with the Greenwich Arts Council, the Taste of the Nation benefit to fight hunger, annual benefits for the prisoner rehabilitation group Family Re-Entry, and the annual 4th of July Celebration at Greenwich Town Hall. Boo also spent many years as AARP chapter president in Greenwich. She also spent countless hours volunteering at local non-profits, which (among many others) include Greenwich Health Department, Greenwich Historical Society, League of Women Voters, and Arch Street Teen Center.

Because of all she has done for the Greenwich community on so many levels, on her 75th birthday Boo became one of a scant few people to have a Town of Greenwich proclamation and day named for her.

Never afraid to speak her mind, Boo fought tirelessly to improve the world’s status quo. She cared deeply about many causes, but one especially important to her was patient safety in hospitals.

Boo was also very passionate about politics, from the local to national level. Over the years she was an instrumental part of many political campaigns, and because of her candor and insight, many elected officials regularly sought her council.

In 2014 Boo was diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic breast cancer. Undeterred, and in spite of regular cancer treatments, she continued to enjoy life to the fullest, volunteering regularly for many good causes, enjoying the company of her friends, and even taking care of both of her beautiful granddaughters. Boo made a point to enjoy every second of life she could, and had no intention of going anywhere soon.

Ultimately it was not cancer that caused her death, but a series of highly preventable doctor errors, and the inability to get adequate care due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Boo is survived by her three children: Todd Federman, Dawn Federman Marshall (married to Patrick Marshall) and Kimberly (Manulik) Livingston (married to Thomas Livingston); four grandchildren: Charlotte, Isabelle, Nick and Brandy, as well as countless other ‘adopted’ sons and daughters, and friends who were as close as family. She was predeceased by her husband Dr. Quentin Federman.

Boo Durkin was undeniably a pillar of the Greenwich Community. She brought so much joy and happiness into the world, especially into all of the lives she touched. Anyone who knew her would describe her as kind, gentle, wildly funny, giving, smart, tenacious, fiercely loyal, authentic, loving, joyful, and inspirational– to say the least. Boo will live on in the hearts of everyone who was lucky enough to know her. May her enormous kindness, boldness and strength always continue to inspire others.

A wake will be held on Monday June 22nd from 2-6:00 pm at Coxe and Graziano Funeral Home, 134 Hamilton Ave., Greenwich. A private burial will be held at First Congregational Church in Old Greenwich.

Gary Wayne Carr was born August 15, 1947 in Waterbury,CT and passed away suddenly on June, 23, 2020 in Greenwich, CT. Gary retired this December after a long career with New York Presbyterian Hospital as an operating room technician. He was also an organist with St. Andrew’s Church in Stamford, and at St. Roch’s Church in Greenwich. He was an active member in the community and most recently volunteered his time driving seniors to appointments and stores in Greenwich. Gary was an avid
Yankee fan, loved and took excellent care of his cats, and enjoyed summer picnics with friends at Byram Shore and Tod’s point. He leaves behind a brother Donald W. Carr of Waterbury, CT, nephew Matthew Carr, and nieces Kerri Carr of St. Louis, MO, and Crystal Aldrich of Naugatuck, CT.

He was preceded in death by his sister Cathy L. Aldrich, and his partner of 22 years, John DeCaprio. He will be dearly missed by many neighbors and friends as he was always a friendly, happy presence in many people’s
lives.

A memorial will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 4:00-8:00pm at Coxe and Graziano Funeral Home in 134 Hamilton Ave Greenwich.

Memorial donations can be sent to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org or the ASPCA www.aspca.org For more information or to place an online condolence, www.coxeandgraziano.com

Lucio Marini, 93, of Greenwich passed away on June 26, 2020. He was born in San Donato, Italy on August 15, 1926 to Donato and Cesidia Marini. Lucio was the proprietor of L & M Precision Grinding in College Point, NY.

Lucio is the beloved husband of Loretta Marini (nee Mazzenga), loving father of Dina Mazzenga (James), Anthony Marini (Linda) and Maria Marini (James Polidoro), cherished grandfather of Michael, Sarah, Raymond, Lucy, David and Amanda, great-grandfather of Gabriel, Aiden, Sophia, Ruth, Abigail, Zoey and Miah. He is also the dear brother of Loreta, Antonia and the late Maria.

Visitation will be held on Monday at Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home Greenwich, CT.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at St. Paul’s R. C. Church in Greenwich, entombment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery

Shared with permission from Kendra Farn in memory of her father Gary Farn, June 26, 2020

Twenty years ago today my dad, my hero, and my role model in life was taken away far too early. Over the past few months, every time I reflect I am brought back to my father and left wondering how he would be feeling during these sad and challenging times in our country.

What conversations he would be having with me. A proud 82nd Airborne guy he was the most patriotic person I’ve ever known, fighting back tears during the National Anthem at every sporting event he attended.

I remember as a reporter covering 9/11, staring at ground zero and thinking about how destroyed he would be to see the unthinkable attacks on US soil and the thousands of lives lost and actually relieved that he was spared from witness it all.

And now I am here again with the state of our country today. As a serious asthmatic who would end up in the ER if he was without his inhaler, how would he handle COVID-19 isolation and not leaving his home?

While he never got to meet my girls, I witnessed his love for being a grandfather to my nieces for the short time he was given that gift. How would he handle not being able to hug them? And would he watch the news every night as the death toll from Corona virus nears 127,000, or would it just be too upsetting for him?

As a father who always told my sister and me when we were fighting, “Love one another, girls,” how would he handle what I know would be deep sadness over the civil unrest in America today.

As a very successful entrepreneur, how would his fragrance company be suffering and what would he be telling me about the the unemployment rate and the future of our economy?

I am quite sure he would remind me of one of his favorite books, The Greatest Generation, by Tom Brokaw and the sacrifices EVERYONE made during the Great Depression and WW2. How on the home front today we should all have that mindset and be ONE. TOGETHER. Not fighting one another.

And finally I think he would tell me to have HOPE. Without hope, we have nothing. So here’s here’s hoping my dad will be looking down in a few months on his beloved America and it looks more like the one he left in 20 years ago in 2000. Until then, he will continue to be an guiding light in my daily strength and reflection.

Love and miss you dad more than you could ever know..

Joseph M. Gavin passed away peacefully at Stamford Hospital on June 29, 2020 after an extended illness.

He was born in the United Hospital in Port Chester, NY on April 23, 1945, graduated from Rye High School in 1964 and served in the US Army Reserve for three years. Joe then joined the Greenwich Police Department in 1970 and retired as a Youth Officer after 23 years. He and William Gallagher then opened the Horseneck Tavern which became a well-known restaurant and gathering place for 16 years.

Joe was the youngest of Mary Ellen and Patrick’s seven children. He is survived by his sister Priscilla Costigan and Patrick Gavin (wife Nancie). He is predeceased by his sisters Patricia Mahoney, Eileen Hoey, Bernadette Maguire, brother John and foster brother Shang Jung. Joe also leaves behind several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Due to Covid-19 a private family service will be held Friday at Gallagher Funeral Home in Greenwich.

The burial will immediately follow at Greenwood Union Cemetery in Rye. A memorial service will be held at later date.

In Lieu of flowers monetary donations may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. www.LeoPGallagherGreenwich.com

In Loving Memory August 17 1952-June 25 2020: Joann Urso Camiglio of Cos Cob passed away June 25, 2020 surrounded by loved ones.

Born August 17, 1952 to Romeo and Mary Urso (Francis). Joann met her future husband in 1970 and they married four years later. Joann and her husband Joseph Camiglio had a beautiful loving marriage of 46 years.

Joann was kind, sweet and generous. Diagnosed 37 years ago with MS she faced her illness with grace and courage.

She loved taking long rides and enjoyed spending time in Vermont and Cape Cod. Joann loved music especially Garth Brooks.

Joann adored her family and was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all. She will always be remembered for her beautiful smile, great sense of humor and her kindness to all. Joann was predeceased by her parents Romeo and Mary Urso and sister Rosemary Piorkowski.

She is survived by her husband Joseph Camiglio of Cos Cob, daughters Tara
Camiglio of Cos Cob, Ashley Worrell (Lance) of Norwalk and two grandchildren Leo and Mila Worrell, sisters Barbara (Bobby) Urso Of Cos Cob, Carey Downes of Wethersfield and many nephews and nieces.

We will always carry her memory in our hearts.

On July 16, 2020 Natalee Lyn Pia was suddenly taken from us. Born on February 10, 1989 to her proud parents, Vincent and Carol Pia of Greenwich, CT.

Natalee was known for her vivacious personality and charming smile, who loved to be the center of attention. She had a great support group of her family and friends who were there for her in the good or bad times. She loved the joy of life and was friendly to all that met her. Nothing or no one could stop Natalee from doing what she wanted to do. She had a good flair for dress and beauty. Natalee was true to herself and lived life to the fullest. She was an affectionate and loving soul whose life had ended too early. Natalee will not be able to achieve all of her desires or possibilities that life had to offer. We all must remember her as the sparkling princess who lost her glass slipper.

Natalee was predeceased by her grandparents Jack and Dora Pia, Tony(Mac) and Gloria Angotto. She is survived by her loving sister Nicole and her husband Ryan Considine, many aunts, uncles and cousins who will miss her dearly.

To honor her life, family and friends will gather on Friday from 4:00-8:00pm at Coxe and Graziano Funeral Home, 134 Hamilton Avenue, Greenwich.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in memory of Natalee to St. Jude’s Children Hospital(www.st.jude.org).

“The hardest working man in show business,” Regis Philbin, a longtime Greenwich resident, died in Manhattan on Friday, July 24 of natural causes, a month short of his 89th birthday.

Philbin, who held the Guinness World Record for the most hours on US Television, was a media personality, actor, and singer, who hosted both talk shows and game shows.

He got his national start in 1967 on the Joey Bishop Show where he was Bishop’s sidekick and announcer.

Philbin hosted Miss America pageants as well as ABC’s “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,” (1999 to 2002), and “America’s Got Talent,” but he was especially known in Greenwich as the co-host of “Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee,” the morning show he and Kathie Lee Gifford, also a longtime Greenwich resident, hosted together. He subsequently hosted “Live! with Regis and Kelly” with Kelly Ripa and retired from that show in 2011.

Philbin and Gifford will be remembered as a staple of morning television, sharing jokes and anecdotes about their lives and interviewing celebrities.

Philbin and his wife Joy recently made local headlines when they sold their mansion in back country and moved to California to spend more time with family.

Philbin, who is survived by his wife and four children, will be remembered for his humility, sense of humor and tremendous energy.

GHS boys varsity hockey coach Chris Rurak died on Friday.

Rurak, 47, lived in Greenwich with his wife Jennifer Walsh-Rurak and their boys Christopher and Matthew, members of the GHS class of 2023.

In an email to the Greenwich High School community Saturday morning, Ralph Mayo, GHS headmaster wrote, “Coach Rurak made a lasting impact upon the sport of hockey, and his genuine love for the game and his support of his players has been felt throughout our town.”

“Our community is deeply saddened by this loss and our thoughts and prayers will be with Coach Rurak and his family,” Mayo added.

Rurak was originally from Canada, where he became passionate about ice hockey. His family moved to Australia where he continued to play hockey before moving to the US.

He received a BS from SUNY Cortland, where he played varsity hockey for four seasons. He served as captain of the team and was  selected to represent the school on the All-SUNYAC team.

As an undergrad Rurak represented Australia in the IIHF World Championships which took him to South Korea, Lithuania, South Africa, Andorra, Barcelona, Spain, Bendigo, Australia and Cardiff Wales.

Rurak received an MBA from Medaille College in Buffalo and started his company Breakaway Transport in 2009.

He and Jennifer settled in Greenwich where he shared his passion for hockey.

“I view it as my civic duty as a high school coach that if a kid wants to play hockey, we should find a way for them to play,” Coach Rurak told GFP in a 2019 interview. After tryouts and cuts, Rurak would meet with each boy to make sure they had somewhere else to play hockey.

“We’re trying to cater to all kids. I’m not partial to any one. I care about them all equally and all the programs equally,” he said.

At GHS Rurak modeled hockey off a Division 1 college experience, acknowledging there was only a small chance a high school player would play at a Division 1 level.

When Rurak arrived in time for the 2016-17 season, the JV team was limited to scrimmages against other JV teams. He reached out to 6 FCIAC teams and started a JV league.

Another idea of Rurak’s was to create a “hockey prom” with the girls and boys teams mixing it up for coed teams with at least two girls on the ice at all times.

He was also the head coach at the Greenwich Skating Club and a member of the Greenwich Athletic Foundation.

“There is a certain atmosphere with high school sports you can’t get anywhere else. It’s unique because it’s community based and includes your friends, your family and your parents’ friends. This is your home. It’s intimate,” Rurak told GFP in the 2019 interview. “That’s why they always say high school sports are the time of your life. We’re trying to make the experience the best and most fun as it can be.”

Ann Marie Graziano, passed away July 25, 2020, in the arms of her loving family. She endured a brief yet extraordinarily courageous battle with cancer. She was 67.

Ann Marie was born in New Rochelle on October 16th, 1952 to John and Florence “Dolly” (nee Generoso) Williams. Ann Marie graduated from New Rochelle High School and went on to become a hair stylist. She was the proprietor of Fred’s Salon in New Rochelle and halted her career in order to play the role she served best, devoted wife and mother.

Ann Marie was the epitome of a matriarch. She was a caretaker whose love transcended generations as she tended to her grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins and of course, her own immediate family.

On August 18th 1978, she married her loving husband, Vincent Graziano. She would stand by his side through their relationship that began nearly 55 years ago as a true companion, partner and soulmate. Together, they enjoyed more recent years in Southwest Florida, where she was a well-loved fixture in the West Bay Club Community.

Ann Marie enjoyed Florida, as well as travel to Europe with her husband and their friends. Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She lived for her children and grandchildren, seizing every moment and opportunity to be in their presence. Ann Marie was an exceptional cook and baker, well known for her anisette cookies and biscotti’s that were loved by all.

Ann Marie is the cherished mother of Jennifer Graziano and Vincent Graziano and his wife Amy. She is the loving, adored and devoted “Mimzy” to Emma Elizabeth, Mia Florence and Vincent Thomas. She is the dear sister to JoAnn Williams, Michael Williams and sister in law of Angela Williams, Marie Graziano (Joseph, deceased), Dominick Graziano (Laurie) Mary Ellen Vassallo (Anthony) and John Graziano (Gina).

She is also survived by her aunt, Yolanda Williams as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. She now is reunited in Heaven with all who have gone before her, and most especially, her faithful companion, Oliver.

To honor Ann Marie’s incredible life, family and friends will gather on Thursday 7:00-9:00pm and Friday 4:00-8:00pm at Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home 767 E. Boston Post Rd Mamaroneck. Tel 914-698-5968.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday at 10:00am at St’s. John & Paul RC Church followed by entombment at Greenwood Union Cemetery.

Memorial donations can be sent to an animal rescue charity of your choice or to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org

Rose E. Presto, a longtime resident of Greenwich passed away peacefully on July 28, 2020 after complications of Parkinson’s. She was 85.

Rose was born March 21, 1935, to Fred and Margaret Decker in Middletown, NY. Rose is the beloved wife of the late, Orlando Presto.

Rose is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Parelli and her husband Frank III, her son Lee Presto and his wife Cindy, loving grandchildren, Frank Parelli IV and his wife Alyssa, Michael Parelli and his wife Dana, Christine Presto and Daniel Presto and her great grandchildren, Frank Parelli V and Olivia Parelli.

Her family gathered privately in her honor.

Memorial donations can be sent to the Boys and Girls Club of Greenwich 4 Horseneck Lane, Greenwich, CT 06830 www. bgcg.org.

For more information or to place an online condolence, www.coxeandgraziano.com

A private service was held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Greenwich, Connecticut for Ursula Hofer, 85 on July 27, 2020.

She was a loving wife and mother who passed peacefully at home last week with her husband and children nearby.

Ursula was born on January 26, 1935 in New York City, NY to Gertrude and Hans Olrogge, recent immigrants from Germany.Ursula had a passion for gardening, travel and reading. Her first jobs included working for Paulist Press and then KLM Airlines, whose flight benefits enabled her to visit relatives in Germany. It was on one of these visits that she met her husband, Norbert.

They raised their children, Melanie and Richard in Cos Cob and built a property management company together. They retired from the company in 1990 and moved to Boca Raton, FL.

She is survived by her husband Norbert Hofer, of Boca Raton, FL, daughter Melanie Hofer (James Tingley) of Cos Cob, CT, son Richard Hofer (Kerri Ann Hofer) of Cos Cob, CT, and grandsons Richard Alex Hofer (Priyanka Amin) of Pittsburgh, PA, and Wolgang Hofer (Bridgett Emigh, fiancé) of Rochester, NY.

Louis P. Belmonte, 89, of Danbury, and formerly of Port Chester, NY passed away on August 2, 2020.

Louis was born and raised in Greenwich, son of the late Lucantonio and Filomena Belmonte. Married to Anna Persampieri Belmonte for 62 years, he also leaves hischildren Phyllis, Lawrence and Michael (Rhonda) Belmonte; Grandchildren Michael (Nicole), Christopher and April Belmonte; and his sister Viola Belmonte. Louis was predeceased by his brother, Armand Belmonte and his sister, Sue Pangallo.

Louis was a proud Korean War veteran. He served as part of the U.S. Army 13th Engineer Combat Battalion, 7th Infantry Division, as a Staff Sergeant. He landed at Inchon and fought in battles at Pork Chop Hill and Old Baldy, receiving two Bronze Battle Stars and additional medals for meritorious service. After his military service, Louis trained and worked as an electrician as a member of Local 501, IBEW, until his retirement. Louis was a lifelong Yankees fan, frequently coaching his team from his favorite chair with his wife, children and grandchildren nearby.

Family and friends will gather on Thursday August 6, 2020 from 4:00-7:00pm at Coxe and Graziano Funeral Home, 134 Hamilton Avenue, Greenwich, CT. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday August 7, 2020 at 10:00am at St. Paul Roman Catholic Church, in Greenwich, CT, interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Greenwich.

To leave online condolences for the family please visit www.coxeandgraziano.com

Patrick James Durkin, 63, of New York City and Greenwich died on Monday, July 27.

Patrick was the son of Virginia Hewitt Durkin and William Austin Durkin, Jr. He grew up in Greenwich attending North Street School and Brunswick School. Sports were a big part of Pat’s youth, whether catching passes thrown by his twin brother Tim on the Greenwich Grenadiers football team, playing pond hockey at Bridges Nursery or golf at Greenwich Country Club.

At Brunswick School Pat was the Captain of the Varsity Soccer Team and played four years of varsity soccer at Middlebury College in Vermont. More importantly, Pat was a leader being a perennial class President and volunteerism played an enormous role in his life. At Brunswick he organized student volunteers for The Nathaniel Witherell home and raised money for a South Korean orphanage, and later in life his volunteer activities ranged from helping at a homeless shelter in New York City to serving on the boards of the Red Cross and the National Wildlife Foundation.

After graduating from Middlebury College and the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College, Pat pursued a career in investment banking working with Donaldson Lufkin and Jenrette, Credite Suisse, Barclays and most recently Atlas Merchant Capital.

His business carried him around the world from working on telecommunication projects in South America to opening DLJ’s Moscow office. It was in Moscow where he met his wonderful wife Kristen Staples. Patrick was hosting a lavish event to celebrate their new office when he approached Kristen and asked her what she thought of the evening – her response was “Not enough caviar.” While Patrick was larger than life to many, Kristen kept him grounded and they enjoyed seventeen years of marriage together.

A successful banker, at heart Pat was a politician. Prior to business school he worked for Congressman Judd Gregg of New Hampshire and was a speech writer for Secretary of the Treasury Donald Regan. Later, Pat served on the Presidential Task Force of Market Mechanisms with former Senator Nicolas Brady and was a tireless campaigner and fund raiser for Presidents George H.W. Bush and George W. Bush, and Senator John McCain, along with numerous candidates at the state and local levels. Everyone knew Pat and he could open doors that others found shut.

Most of all Pat was a husband and father. He loved his wife and children Luke, Austin and Kate more than anything in the world. Pat shared with his children his love for travel, the outdoors, sports and anything else that they could do together. Pat will always be with them, whether skiing at Okemo Mountain, hiking through the fields and woods at the Durkin family farm or walking on Capitol Hill.

Along with his immediate family Pat leaves his mother Virginia Durkin, his brothers Bill and his wife Martha, Tim and his wife Liz, Tom and his wife Sue and Dan and his wife Susan, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will spend a lifetime telling stories about Uncle Pat.

Given the current circumstances no service is planned at this time. Notice will be provided at a later date as to where donations may be made in Patrick’s memory.

Lawrence A. DeLuca “Uncle Larry” passed away Thursday, August 13. He was 86.

Larry was born in Greenwich on July 1, 1934 to Anthony and Vivian (nee Urso) DeLuca. Larry owned and operated Lawrence A. DeLuca General Contracting and Excavating and worked with Connecticut Natural Gas for over 40 years.

He was hardworking, loved to restore antique cars, and was a die-hard NY Yankee fan. Larry loved his family and friends, always lending a helping hand. He was affectionately known as Uncle Larry to all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Lois Volkert, loving step-children Bill Volkert (Susan Marie), Susan Jane Dinneny (John), 7 cherished step-grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, his sister Rose Marie Abazia, and sister in law Nancy Deluca.

He is also survived by his loving nephews Billy, Frankie, Timmy, Joey, and niece Nancy, as well as 22 grand nieces and nephews , 2 great grand nieces, and 3 aunts Patricia Urso, Olimpia Chiappetta, and Florence Polakovic.

Larry is predeceased by his brother Anthony (Toto) and nephews Tony and Larry.

To honor his life, family and friends will gather Monday 4:00pm – 8:00pm at Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home, 134 Hamilton Ave in Greenwich. Tel (203) 869-5968.

Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, mask wearing is required and other safety protocols will be in place.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday 10am at St. Catherine of Siena, Riverside. Interment to follow at St.Mary’s Cemetery, Greenwich.

Christopher Corey Rurak of Greenwich, passed away suddenly on Friday, July 24, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy defined by family, love, and an unrelenting passion for the sport of hockey.  

Chris was born on July 1, 1973 in Innisfail in Alberta, Canada.  In his teens, he moved with his family to Adelaide, Australia where he attended high school at Pulteney Grammar School. When he was 17, he moved to the United States and played Junior A hockey for the Massena Americans in the CJHL based out of Ottawa, Ontario, the Niagara Scenics in Buffalo, NY and in the NAJHL based in Michigan. Chris attended SUNY Cortland where he studied Economics and  played varsity hockey for 4 years. He served as a team captain and was a selected to represent SUNY Cortland as member of the All-SUNYAC team.  Additionally, while Chris was an undergraduate student, he represented Australia in the IIHF World Championships and played hockey in South Korea, Lithuania, South Africa, Andorra, Barcelona, Spain, Bendigo, Australia, and Cardiff Wales.  Chris met his wife Jennifer while at Cortland and they married in 2001. Chris went on to earn an MBA in Rochester, NY prior to starting his logistics management firm, Breakaway Transport, LLC nearly a decade ago.   

Over the past ten years Chris discovered an extended passion for hockey as his life-long dedication evolved from player to coach and program advisor. Chris brought his love, knowledge, and commitment to innumerable players in these roles. He coached at every level in youth hockey at the Greenwich Skating Club and for the last four years served as the Head Coach for the Greenwich High School Varsity team.  Chris believed that hockey was an extraordinary vehicle to teach life lessons.  As he reflected on this past season, Chris said it best when he noted, “Together we have come to recognize the importance of teamwork, commitment, leadership, supporting one another, successfully navigating adversity, winning with class, and losing with character. While never reflected on the scoreboard, these life lessons are the true victories that can be applied for the rest of our lives.”   

In these regards, Chris’ commitment to the sport and to the community through his coaching efforts were unparalleled. But nowhere was his passion greater than that for his family. His love and strength were ever-present with them. The greatest gifts in Chris’ life were his children, Christopher and Matthew.  His world truly revolved around them, and he was ecstatic to be able to serve as their hockey coach every year since they learned how to skate and to share and blend the joys of the game with the joys of his family. 

Chris is survived by his wife, Jennifer Walsh-Rurak, their twin boys, Christopher and Matthew, his parents Don and Shirley Rurak, his brother, Dean Rurak (Barb), his sister, Lisa Rurak (David), his father in law, Michael Walsh, his sister in law, Megan Walsh Hakewill (James), his brother in law, M. Justin Walsh (Katie), and several nieces and nephews.  Chris was predeceased by his mother in law, Jo-Ann Walsh, and his sister in law, Melissa Walsh.   

A celebration of Chris’ remarkable life will take place in the future when it is safe for those who loved him to gather.  In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Chris’ memory to the American Heart Association or to the Chris Rurak Scholarship Fund, which will enable an annual scholarship award to a GHS Student-Athlete. www.chrisrurak.com      

Nina (Sanzone) Cocchi, age 77 of Riverside, died Sunday, September 20, 2020.

Nina is remembered by her family and friends as being a caring and unyielding spirit that enriched the life of everybody within her orbit. A consummate giver, there was never a guest that did not feel welcomed, a birthday that went forgotten, or a ship that – no matter how stormy the seas or how broken the hull – could not find a safe harbor in her presence.

Nina bravely fought the debilitating effects of a respiratory illness over the last 25 years of her life. She has shed her mortal pains and ascended to a better place. For both her life – a glorious gift to all who knew her – and for her quick passing, her family is grateful.

Nina was born in Brooklyn on October 23, 1942, the daughter of Amadeo and Lillie Sanzone. She was a graduate of Richmond Hill School (1960), with degrees in Art Education from Pratt Institute (BS, 1964) and the College of New Rochelle (MA, 1980).

A former art teacher and floral designer, she was most recently known as a contributing artist to the Art Society of Old Greenwich for her award-winning and meticulously created torn-paper relief landscape collages.

Nina was a devoted wife of Anthony Cocchi for 56 years. She is survived by her husband, her three children and their spouses, and her five grandchildren: Andrea Conte, husband Louis Conte, and children Thomas, Samuel and Louis; Peter Cocchi, wife Hope Cocchi, and children Christopher and Matthew; and Mike Cocchi and wife Zorayda Cocchi.

She is also survived by her sister Diana Sanzone and partner Eddie Negron; brother Simon Reina and wife Marilyn Reina, and many nieces and nephews.

Nina’s family will receive relatives and friends, and online condolences, at Coxe and Graziano Funeral Home (coxeandgraziano.com), 134 Hamilton Avenue, Greenwich, CT, on Thursday, September 24th from 4 pm to 8 pm.

The Funeral Mass will be held Friday, September 25th at 11:00 am at St. Catherine of Sienna Church in Greenwich (stc-sta.org), with a remote broadcast for those unable to attend in person.

All attendees are asked to please wear masks as per CT Department of Health guidelines. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to www.nationalautismassociation.org.

The Funeral Mass will be live streamed from St. Catherine of Siena. Please see the link below:
https://events.locallive.tv/events/40053

Christine Ricciardi, a lifelong Greenwich resident, passed away Tuesday September 22nd. She was 81.

Born December 20, 1938 to Paul and Rose Smurlo; Christine was a graduate of the Fashion Institute in New York, where she received a degree in Merchandising. She also received a certification in floral design from the New York Botanical Gardens.

Christine worked in Real Estate as well as in her husband, Gerald’s, construction business for many years. She also volunteered at St. Paul’s Church, where she headed the Flower Guild; loved antiques as well as traveling.

Christine is survived by her beloved husband, Gerald; her devoted children Gerald (Diane), Michael (Lisa), Carrie (Robert); and her cherished grandchildren Connie, Zach, Cole, Wyatt and great-grandson, Jaxon.

She is also survived by her dear brother and sister in law Joey and Marie Ricciardi.

To honor her life, a memorial gathering will be held Sunday 2:00pm – 6:00pm at Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home 134 Hamilton Ave in Greenwich Tel. (203) 869-5968. A Memorial Mass will take place Monday 10:00am at St. Paul’s Church, Greenwich.

Inurnment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Greenwich. For more information or to place an online condolence, www.coxeandgraziano.com.

Mary (Lyman) Heist, 89, wife of the late L. C. Heist, slipped quietly away on September 22, 2020 to be with the Lord she loved.

Mary was born on September 6, 1931 on the Lyman Farm in Middlefield, Connecticut, the youngest daughter of the late John and Edna (Andersen) Lyman. She is a graduate of the Northfield School for Girls (MA), where she first met her husband (while he attended Mt. Hermon School), before attending Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY for her BS in Nursing.

After graduation, Mary worked as a public health nurse for the Visiting Nurse Service of New York and the Navy Relief Society.

Mary spread joy to all those she touched and devoted her life to her passions: her family, her faith, and her community. She passionately shared the message of the Lord with those around her. The highlights of her week were hosting Bible study in her home for over 45 years and her nvolvements at the Presbyterian Church of Old Greenwich and Stanwich Congregational Church.

She was recognized in 1996 as the Community Leader of the Year by the Greenwich Time for her work chairing a major capital campaign for Hill house, a fixed-income housing facility for the elderly in Riverside.

She was also an ever-present force in the local community: serving on the Boards of the Stamford Center for the Arts, Greenwich Community Fund, Greenwich Symphony Guild, and the Youth Conservation Committee of Greenwich. She also loved teaching elementary school students about plants and other related subjects through the Junior Program of the Garden Club of Old Greenwich and preparing dinners for homeless women for St. Luke’s Community Services.

In addition to her volunteer work, Mary was committed to supporting education, establishing scholarships at Northfield Mount Hermon School, Skidmore College, the University of Connecticut, and Yale University.

Mary is survived by her children, Jane H. Gamber (Scott) of New Canaan, CT, William L. Heist (Lisa) of Trumbull, CT, Peter G. Heist (Theresa) of Eads, TN, Matthew C. Heist (Adrienne) of San Carlos, CA, and her fourteen grandchildren whom she adored.

Interment will be private. Donations in her memory may be made to Stanwich Church, 202 Taconic Road, Greenwich, CT 06831 (www.stanwichchurch.org) or NMH School, The L.C. and Mary Heist Scholarship, 1 Lamplighter Way, Mt. Hermon, MA 01354 (www.nmhschool.org).