Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory

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Stamford, CT
Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory

We specialize in many types of funeral services and offer flexible and competitive pricing. The Nicholas F. Cognetta, Sr. and Naida E.

In addition to wakes, memorial and traditional services, we are the only funeral home in Fairfield County with an onsite crematory. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory of Stamford, CT, has seen many changes since May 15, 1953, when Nicholas F. Cognetta opened their doors for the first time. Today, amidst all of the large funeral home conglomerates, we remain a family-owned and operated funeral home and crematory. When you call or visit our funeral home, you will find a member of the Cognetta family. Our funeral directors will help you create a ceremony that is meaningful and fully affordable for you and your family. Whether burial and/or cremation, our staff can take care of all the arrangements, relieving you of all unnecessary burdens. We'll always be here for you.

10/28/2025

Sara T. DeFilippis

Sara T. DeFilippis, of Stamford, affectionately known as Sandie, passed away at her home surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, October 26, 2025. She was born on July 16th, 1936, to the late Anthony Tornatore and Mary Rizzi.

Sandie was quite the social butterfly. She loved to travel the world with her husband Ernie and her many, many friends. She cherished her friendships as well as her time with her family. She never missed a birthday, sports game, recital, or graduation. She was the biggest cheerleader for everyone around her. She loved playing Mahjong and hosting a good party.

Sandie was also a fiery spirit who proudly worked until she was 87 years old. Spending her career in companies such as American Cyanamid, Georgia Pacific, St. Maurice Church, St. John’s Episcopal, and Waterstone. She was truly a force to be reckoned with and took every day on with grace. She knew how to enjoy the finer things in life, from her jewelry to her perfectly made Bombay Saphire martinis - extra dry with a twist. What she cherished most though was spending time with her kids and grandkids.

Sandie was a devout Catholic with strong faith and a generous heart. She frequently volunteered her time to her church and community. In 2023, she was honored with the St. Augustine Medal of Service in recognition of her dedication and service.

Sandie was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 58 years, Ernie, in January of 2020, two brothers Carmen Tornatore and Gene Tornatore and is survived by her loving children, Kimberlee Fahey and her husband James of New Canaan; Lauren Yantorno and her husband Al of Stamford and Matthew DeFilippis and his wife Sandra of Trumbull, as well as her adoring grandchildren, Rebecca, Jimmy, Anthony, Kara, Alexa, Jack and Matthew. Along with two sisters, Diane Parker and Lynda Kilgore and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

A funeral procession will be leaving the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford at 9:30 AM on Friday, October 31, 2025 for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. at St. Maurice RC Church, 358 Glenbrook Road, Stamford. Interment will follow at Queen of Peace Cemetery, Rockrimmon Road, Stamford. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday, October 30, 2025 from 4:00-8:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Sandie's memory to the Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300. Jacksonville, FL 32256.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.cognetta.com

View Sara T. DeFilippis's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/27/2025

Connie L. Pellicano

Connie entered into eternal rest on Saturday, October 25th embraced by the Lord’s peace. Born on December 11, 1926, in Chiaromonte, Potenza, Italy, Connie carried her Italian roots proudly throughout her life, keeping faith, family, and tradition at the heart of everything she did. These values became the foundation of a beautiful life filled with meaning, purpose, and love.

She was the proud and devoted mother of five children, loving Nana to fourteen grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren. To Connie her family was the heart of the home. She was the keeper of traditions, the guide, the nurturer, and the steady source of strength and comfort. Our prayer warrior

Connie worked for many years at the Stamford Teachers Credit Union, where she was known for her kindness, grace, and gentle spirit. She treated all with respect, warmth, and sincerity, leaving lasting impressions on colleagues and members alike.

At home, Connie’s hospitality was unmatched. Her kitchen was always open, her table always full, and her heart always welcoming. She became “Mom” to everyone who entered her home. Whether through a comforting meal, a listening ear, or a simple hug, Connie nourished both body and soul. Decorating her home for holidays and the fall brought Connie much joy. Her holiday celebrations—rooted in faith, family, food, games and cherished Italian traditions—were legendary and are now treasured memories and traditions carried on by her family.

Connie was well known for her biscottis. She made hundreds of dozens for St Maurice’s cookie fundraisers and her pizzas were everyone’s favorite. She expressed her love through everything she created. She was a member of the Goodwives Quilters in Darien for many years. Her quilts, stitched with prayer and perfection wrapped her family in the same warmth she always gave through her presence.

Her Catholic faith guided her life. She lived the Gospel not only in words, but in action—through service, kindness, forgiveness, and love. She treated everyone she met with respect. Her family takes comfort knowing she is now resting in the eternal arms of Jesus reunited with loved ones who went before her.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on October 29, 10 AM at St Maurice Church located at 358 Glenbrook Road, Stamford, CT 06907.

Entombment will be at St. John’s Cemetery 25 Camp Avenue, Darien, CT 06820.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Connecticut Food Bank to continue Connie’s passion to feed people. CT Food Bank

View Connie L. Pellicano's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/23/2025

Frank Vallario

Frank R. Vallario, 101, a lifelong Stamford resident, passed away peacefully surrounded by loving family on October 20, 2025. He was born on August 19, 1924 in Stamford, Connecticut to the late Joseph and Lucia (Lucy) DeNicola Vallario.

At the age of 18 he answered his country’s call and enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served honorably during World War II as a Private First Class in Company A 94th Medical Battalion in France and Germany, working as a Medical Technician. He was part of the Battle of the Bulge led by General George Patton.

After returning home, Frank spent his professional career as a carpenter in Carpenters Local Union 210 and worked on many commercial buildings in downtown Stamford.

Frank “Tex” was deeply connected to the West Side of Stamford where he lived in the house his father built until the age of 80 years old. His Italian roots were very important to him and family was everything. Frank was an avid gardener and grew many vegetables including his first-rate tomatoes. He was an avid football fan, spending most Sunday afternoons rooting for both the NY Giants and Jets. Two of Frank’s favorite places were Cove Island Park where he spent many summer days and the main branch of the Ferguson Library. He could be seen riding his bike around town even into his 90s.

A true member of the “Greatest Generation,” Frank carried the lessons and resilience of his youth throughout his century-long life. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his five siblings: Margaret Iovino, Antoinette Campana, Edith Caporizzo, Salvatore “Chuck” Vallario, and Rachel Vallario. He was also predeceased by his nephews Joseph Vallario and Ralph Campana. Frank is survived by his nephew Fred Caporizzo, Jr. and his wife Marci of Westport, CT, his niece Rachelle Collier and her husband Michael of San Diego, CA, and his niece June Lotz and her husband Greg of Stamford, CT. He is also survived by his grandnieces Mallory and Amanda Lotz both of Stamford, CT.

Special thanks to the Veterans Hospital in West Haven and the satellite office in Stamford, especially Dr. Anne Hyson for their years of excellent care. Also, a heartfelt thank you to the amazing staff at Edgehill Nursing Facility for the kindness and compassion they provided during Frank’s final year.

All services were held privately. To leave an online condolence or read Frank’s full obituary, please visit www.cognetta.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Frank’s memory to The Veterans Hospital of West Haven, Attn: Voluntary Services, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT 06516; or the charity of your choice.

View Frank Vallario's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/22/2025

Frances L. Giuliani

Frances Louise Giuliani passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, following a brief illness. Born on February 22, 1929, in Stamford, Connecticut, Frances was one of four children born to the late Arthur and Antoinette (Scorese) Giuliani. Frances was 96 years old at the time of her death.

Frances attended Stamford High School and remained a lifelong resident of Stamford, continuing to live in the family home built by her father. Frances was initially employed by Conde Naste Publications and subsequently joined the credit department of Connecticut National Bank, where she remained until her retirement.

Frances was a humble and generous person deeply devoted to her family – her home was the epicenter for family gatherings. Times spent with her family were what she cherished most. She embraced her roles as daughter, sister, niece, aunt, and cousin. Her personality was marked by her selflessness and the deep bonds she nurtured within her family, and her abiding faith was the cornerstone of her life.

Frances is survived by her sister, Barbara Ann Pinelli and her husband, Robert; nieces and nephews Michelle Ciarcia (James), Cathy Bruno (Nicholas), Alfred Giuliani (Connie), Jody Rapoport, David Giuliani (Shannon), Robert Pinelli (Lisa Steers), and Batiste Zgombick (Tom Galvin), and beloved cousins, Carl and Theresa Martino, Diane Mannetti, and Carol and Peter Zezima. She also leaves many great-nieces and nephews, whom she adored.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her two brothers, Alfred and Joseph Giuliani, and her beloved nephew, Mark Ross Giuliani.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to everyone at Waveny Life Care Center. While there, Frances received exemplary and compassionate care, and her family was treated with kindness and understanding. The family would also like to offer special thanks to Agnes Godlewski, who lovingly cared for Frances during her illness.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 26th from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Avenue, in Stamford, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, October 27th at 10:30 AM at The Church of St. Cecilia, 1184 Newfield Avenue, Stamford, CT 06905. Interment will follow the mass at St. John R.C. Cemetery in Darien. Frances’ life and legacy will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.

View Frances L. Giuliani's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/21/2025

Maria Farris

Maria Farris, 91, formerly of Stamford passed away on September 19, 2025. She was born in Italy on July 4, 1934 to the late Raffaelle and Esterina Cherchi Pes.

Maria was the youngest of 3 children and grew up in the small village of Banari, Sardinia IT in a stone and mortar home built in the middle ages. She was trained as a dress maker and used those skills throughout her life. She was pursued relentlessly by our father Lorenzino until she finally said yes, she really made him work for it. They were married in 1960 and she came to the U.S. permanently in 1961. One year later Lorenzo P. Farris was born, followed by Antonio in 1966 and finally Giovanni P. in 1969. She lived in Stamford, CT most of her adult life and remained married to Lorenzino for 60 years before his passing in 1960.

Maria is survived by her sons, Giovanni Farris, Lorenzo Farris and Antonio Farris, her daughter-in-laws Terri, Jackie, and Christine, and her grand daughter Fiona and grandson Mateo.

Besides her parents, Maria was also predeceased by her husband Lorenzino Farris in 2020.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Bridget of Ireland RC Church, 278 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Stamford on Friday, October 24, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Inurnment will follow at St. John’s Mausoleum, Richards Avenue, Norwalk.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.cognetta.com

View Maria Farris's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/20/2025

Richard "Dick" Stuart Simon

Richard “Dick” Stuart Simon, 87, of Stamford, Connecticut, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. He was the devoted husband of Carolyn Marjorie Simon, who predeceased him in 2020. He is survived by his son Robert and daughter-in-law Ann of New York City, and his beloved grandchildren Audrey and Courtney.

Born on December 25, 1937, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Richard earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Carnegie Mellon University and an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh. His lifelong curiosity and commitment to learning led him to a successful career in technology, where he was known for his dedication, intellect, and ability to stay ahead of emerging trends and certifications.

A true enthusiast at heart, Richard had two great passions outside his professional life: his cars and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Whether it was fine-tuning an engine or cheering on the black and gold every Sunday, he brought the same enthusiasm and precision that defined all aspects of his life.

Richard’s steady kindness, curiosity for the future, and love for his family will be deeply missed. May his memory be a blessing.

Family and friends may call at the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford, CT on Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM. A service of remembrance will take place at 12:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Richard’s memory to a charity of your choice, particularly those supporting technology education or youth mentorship, honoring his lifelong belief in the power of learning and progress.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.cognetta.com.

View Richard "Dick" Stuart Simon's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/20/2025

Pamela S. Drago

Pamela S. Drago, 65, of Stamford, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Pam was born on September 17, 1960 in New York, NY to the late Herbert and Phyllis White Maltby. She grew up in Closter, NJ where her family moved shortly after her birth.

Pam accomplished so much in her personal, professional, and community life. She attended Hillside Elementary School, Village Middle School and Northern Valley Regional High School in Demarest, NJ. Pam received a BS Degree in Business Administration from West Virginia University. She went on to work for AC Nielsen where she became VP Market Research and met her future husband, Joseph Drago. They were married on August 19, 1989 and moved to Mount Laurel, NJ that November to pursue business careers, and where their first child, Michelle, was born. Two years later their careers brought them to Stamford, CT where it became their home and birthplace for their other two children, Christina and Stephen. Her career continued to flourish at AC Nielsen and later moved to IPSOS as President North America. Pam’s accomplishments went well outside the business world. She managed to fulfill a business career while taking care of a family and giving back to her community. Pam was a great wife and mother to her three children, and a caring and loving daughter, sister to her three siblings, aunt to her nine nephews and nieces and friend to so many. Shortly after moving to Stamford, she became a member of the First United Methodist Church (FUMC) of Stamford where her love of children led her to Superintendent of Sunday School. She then went on take the role as Chair of Global Missions at FUMC until her health no longer enabled her to continue in the role. Pam’s missions work was recognized by the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution with an Excellence in Community Service Award.

Pam is survived by her loving husband of 36 years, Joe; her children, Michelle, Christina and Stephen; mother-in-law, Benedetta Drago, sister Kimberly Sewell; brothers David Maltby (Margaret) and Jonathan Maltby (Natasha); brother-in-law, Antonio Drago (Lillian); nieces and nephews; Grace, Jack, Julia, Lilly, Sophia, Anthony, Angelo, Alessandra and Olivia.

The family extends its gratitude to all the ComForCare caregivers, especially Naomie Merisca for her devotion and love of Pam. We also extend our thanks to the Constellation Hospice aides and to Julie, Pam’s nurse, for her diligent care and guidance.

A funeral procession will leave the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford, CT on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 9:10 AM and proceed to The First United Methodist Church, 42 Cross Road, Stamford, CT for a service to begin at 9:30 AM with The Rev. David R. Piscatelli officiating. Entombment will follow at Fairview Cemetery Mausoleum, 500 Fairview Ave, Fairview, NJ. Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Pam’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association.

To leave online condolences, please visit www.cognetta.com.

View Pamela S. Drago's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/20/2025

Margaret I. Bratsenis

Margaret Irene Bratsenis, of Branford and a former resident of Stamford, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025 at Branford Hospice. She was born in Stamford on December 4, 1946, to the late Louis G. and Helen E. Daly Bratsenis.

Margaret is survived by her daughter, Amber Bratsenis of Wilton, her sister, Jeanne B. Reinhard and her husband Matthew of Stamford. Also surviving are her close cousins Joanne and James King of Wilton and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, Margaret was also predeceased by her brother, George Bratsenis and sister, Karen DeBartolo.

Entombment was held privately. A memorial service will be held at St. Barbara Orthodox Church in Orange, CT on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 1:00PM

Donations may be made in Margaret's memory to Beardsley Zoo, Bridgeport, CT, St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital or to an Animal wellness charity of your choice.

To share a memory or leave an online condolence, please visit www.cognetta.com

View Margaret I. Bratsenis's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/16/2025

Kenneth J. "Bolla" Bollettieri

Kenneth J. Bollettieri, lovingly known as “Bolla,” passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born in New Rochelle, New York, on October 24, 1956, Ken spent most of his life in Stamford, Connecticut, where he built a home filled with laughter, friendship, and love.

A 1974 graduate of Stamford Catholic High School, Ken went on to attend the University of Bridgeport, where he continued to nurture his curiosity and determination. His strong work ethic was evident early on — he began working at age 16, and while still in high school was promoted to Manager of the Garden Department at Caldor, where he discovered his lifelong passion for plants and trees.

As most of his friends know, Ken was a Licensed Arborist whose love for nature and the outdoors guided his life’s work. He spent many years with Bartlett Tree Experts and Calvi Tree, earning deep respect for his expertise and kindness. He later continued his passion for plants and design with Designs by Lee, where his dedication and warm spirit left a lasting impression.

After retirement, Ken could often be seen around town with his loyal companion, Willow, a German Shepherd with whom he shared countless hours of leisure, walks, and play. Ken was also a classic car enthusiast, proudly showcasing the first car he ever owned — a beautifully restored 1969 Dodge Dart Sw***er — at the Stamford Classic Car Show.

Bolla was loved and adored by many, especially his lifelong friends who proudly call themselves “The Gloms.” Together they shared countless memories, laughter, and friendship, playing softball for years — first sponsored by The Colony and later by Calvi Tree. Those who knew Bolla will remember his quick wit, easy smile, and the warmth he brought into every room.

Bolla is survived by his beloved wife, Angela, his loving sister Patty, and his in-laws Jenny, Bev, and Eric, as well as many cherished cousins. He was predeceased by his loving parents, Patrick and Caroline Gianotti Bolletieri.

He will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy of friendship, loyalty, and love will live on forever in the hearts of those he touched.

Family and friends may call at the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford, CT on Friday, October 24, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM for a memorial service to celebrate Ken’s life. A religious service take place on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at the funeral home.

View Kenneth J. "Bolla" Bollettieri's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/15/2025

Peter Zaccagnino

Peter Zaccagnino, 72, of Norwalk, Connecticut, passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, surrounded by family and love.

A lifelong musician, performer, and teacher, Peter devoted his life to sharing the joy of music through his signature instrument, the ukulele. Known affectionately as “Uncle Zac,” he inspired countless students and fellow musicians through his performances, workshops, and passion for bringing people together through song.

Peter is survived by his loving wife, Laurie; daughter Corey and her husband Stephen; son Andrew and his wife Alexandra; and three beloved grandchildren, Oliver, Parker, and Tyler, with a fourth grandchild expected this December.

Family and Friends may visit at the Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory, 104 Myrtle Ave., Stamford, CT on Friday, October 17, 2025 from 3:00PM to 8:00PM.

A celebration of Peter’s life will be held on Saturday, October 18 with information to follow, where friends and family are invited to gather to honor his life, his music, and the joy he brought to others.

“Preserve your memories, they’re all that’s left of you.”

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in memory of Peter Zaccagnino’s love of music and the Ukulele to Ukulelefoundation.org

To share a memory or leave an online condolence please visit www.Cognetta.com

View Peter Zaccagnino's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/14/2025

Maria Farris

View Maria Farris's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/06/2025

Richard W. Lowman

Richard W. Lowman, of Stamford, CT, passed away peacefully on October 4th.

Richard was born on January 1, 1956, in Stamford, CT, the son of the late Rosalie “Nanny” Darling and Horace “Pappy” Lowman. He worked for the City of Stamford as head custodian at numerous schools during a career that spanned over 45 years. Richard was a proud member of the Eagles Club in Stamford and was best known for his warm smile and wonderful sense of humor.

Richard is survived by his daughter Britney Millington Lowman; sisters Penny Lee D’Arinzo (Mark) and Karyn (Walt); brothers Robert, Clifford (Jo-Ann Montefuscoli), and Kevin (Denise Murphy); brother-in-law Ronald Lugiano (officiating); sisters-in-law Claralyn (Southwood), Johanna (Mankowski), and Joanne (Moretti); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

He was predeceased by his sister Deborah Ann Lugiano; brothers Douglas H., Charles Edward (Myrna Ramos), George (Martha Morrison), John, James, David, Danny Boy; and sister-in-law Marguerite Poccia Lowman.

Family and friends may pay their respects on Sunday, October 12th, from 12:00–3:00 p.m. at Cognetta Funeral Home, 104 Myrtle Avenue, Stamford, CT. Burial will be private.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the Stamford Hospital Nursing Team, Civita Long Term Care in Stamford, and Rae & Ruthie for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Richard’s name to the Eagles Club of Stamford, CT, or The Salvation Army.

View Richard W. Lowman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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104 Myrtle Avenue
Stamford, CT
06902

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http://www.cognetta.com/

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The Nicholas F. Cognetta Funeral Home & Crematory of Stamford, CT, has seen many changes since May 15, 1953, when Nicholas F. Cognetta, Sr. and Naida E. Cognetta first opened their doors for business. But some things have remained the same like the commitment to the Stamford community and the pride that comes with serving families during a difficult time. Today, amidst all of the large funeral home conglomerates and corporate take overs of area funeral homes, Cognetta remains a family-owned and operated funeral home and crematory. When you call or visit our funeral home, you will find a member of the Cognetta family. Our funeral directors will help you arrange a ceremony that is both meaningful and affordable for you and your family. Whether you are planning/arranging a burial and/or a cremation, our staff can manage the arrangement process, relieving you of all unnecessary burdens. We'll always be here for you.

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