Bacon Funeral Home Willimantic, CT

02/21/2026

Gary Lee Deets, 82, of Coventry, loving husband, father, and grandfather passed at Hartford Hospital Monday, February 16, 2026. Born in Sunbury, PA on February 28, 1943, the son of the late Willard and Ethel (Wagner) Deets. He grew up in Northumberland, Pennsylvania where he graduated from Northumberland High School, class of 1960. He went on to graduate from Bloomsburg Teachers College, earning his bachelor's degree followed by the University of Pittsburgh and earning his PhD in chemistry. Gary was employed by Monsanto in the specialty resins research department for 25 years. During that time, he met the love of his life, Julie Kuras, they married in 1981. Upon leaving Monsanto, he and Julie started a custom embroidery business in East Longmeadow MA which they ran together for a few years. Shortly thereafter, Gary re-entered the chemical R&D arena working with Industrial Summit Technologies (IST) located in Parlin, NJ for 20 years. Over the course of his life’s work Gary was named on 32 patents. The majority of his life’s work focused on consumer, industrial applications, and the aerospace and defense industries. He took great pride in the contributions he made during that time.

While growing up in Pennsylvania Gary loved to hunt and fish with his father and later with his son Gary (JR). He spent his summers as a child in Canada on Lake Dalhousie water skiing and fishing. He even loved to regale his friends and family with stories of the beautiful northern lights he was able to see while at Lake Dalhousie. In high school he played football, basketball, and baseball. In college he was on the chess team and a player not to take lightly. Gary worked at his father’s service station until 1970 when he moved to Springfield, MA. after graduating college. Being an adventurer at heart, he enjoyed traveling, camping, hiking, photography, and was quite the history buff. In his down time Gary was also known to be fond of watching sports and playing videos games to relax. He and JR would spend hours playing complex strategy war games. Gary traveled across the country with his family several times visiting the national parks and spent the last 35 years camping seasonally at Sebago Lake Family Campground in Standish, ME. He loved the peace and beauty of Maine and enjoyed many hours in the boat on beautiful Sebago Lake with family and friends. He was mindful of what great scenery the country had to offer.

Gary also treasured watching his sons excel playing soccer, running track, and wrestling. He loved being involved with his daughter Suzzy’s equestrian endeavors in her youth. Watching his Grandson, Nicholas, play soccer from the age of 5 through high school also brought him many years of joy. Gary was a very handy guy and would tackle any type of project and loved teaching his children the importance of being self-reliant and confident. We don’t think there was any task he found too difficult! After moving to CT in 1997 Gary became an avid UCONN women’s basketball fan as well as a season pass holder for the CT Sun women’s basketball team. Gary loved animals and they loved him. He has had many dogs, cats, and horses over the years.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife Julie of 45 years of Coventry; two sons, Gary Deets and his wife Serena of Willington, CT, Lee Deets and his wife Carol of Lenox, MA.;two daughters, Marsha Siman of Waterford, ME and Suzanne Deets of Groveton, NH.; 6 grandchildren; Nick, Ryan, Karley, Joey, Jerrie and Christopher.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at a later date this summer. Donations in memory of Gary can be made to; houstonshaggydogrescue.org. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

02/18/2026

Susan Ann Fortier, 82, wife of the late Edward L. Fortier passed away Wednesday February 11, 2026 at Manchester Memorial Hospital. She was the daughter of the late Lyode and Jenny Perkins.

Born on November 2, 1943 in Norwich, CT Susan was a lifelong resident of Willimantic who cherished her family above all else she was a woman of quiet strength, warmth and compassion always family above All Else. always offering love guidance and unwavering support to those around her. Her home was a place of comfort and gathering where family traditions were nurtured and memories were lovingly made. Susan worked for American Thread for many years she then transferred onto a companion and homemakers from there she worked at the Eastbrook Mall until retirement Susan was an avid bingo player she loved playing her bingo and cooking she loved watching cooking shows and trying out new recipes. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her kindness, resilience and the enduring love she had for all.

Susan is survived by her devoted children son John Fortier and his partner Roberta Hartling of Lebanon, CT; daughter Bernice Avery and her husband Leonard Avery of Coventry, CT; son Walter Fortier and wife Dawn Fortier of Willimantic ,CT. She leaves numerous cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren who are a constant source of pride and joy in her life. Her grandchildren Hannah Fortier, Spencer Fortier, Kolby Fortier, Kasey Fortier Avery. Kyle Fortier, Kayla Paulovske,Karli Fortier; great grandchildren Karson Fortier, Greyson Fortier, Anderson Fortier Gerrickson Fortier Susan also leaves behind four brothers Matt Perkins, George Perkins ,Jerry Perkins, Sam Perkins and sisters Diane Clark and Juanita Perkins. She was predeceased by a brother Lloyd (Sonny) Perkins and a sister Carol Taylor.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

02/16/2026

It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved sister, Nancy Louise McAlee on February 12, 2026, at Hartford Hospital at age 70. Born on September 24, 1955, in Willimantic, CT she grew up in South Coventry and resided in Vernon. She was the daughter of the late Milton B. Zurmuhlen and Marion (Guy) Zurmuhlen Cahill.

Nancy was a graduate of Coventry High School. She received a certificate for Medical Transcription from Manchester Community College. She was not only a sister but a friend to many. Nancy’s favorite pastime was drawing free hand and oil painting on canvas. Her nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews were always a subject of conversations following them all on Facebook. Her spirit will live on in our hearts forever.

Nancy is survived by 3 sisters, Sandi Lizee (Rene), Susan Lizee (Normand), Shirley Burgie (Andrew); a brother Daniel Zurmuhlen (Cheryl); daughter Jessie B. McAlee and many cousins, nieces & nephews, many great nieces & nephews. She was predeceased by her brother Gerry Zurmuhlen.

Graveside services will be held in the Spring. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

02/12/2026

Marylou Delmastro, 82, of Lebanon, CT passed away on Monday January 19, 2026 at Backus Hospital after a lengthy illness.

Born on January 31, 1943, at Windham Hospital, Marylou was the beloved daughter of Edward and Verna Czajka, predeceasing her. Marylou grew up in Windham, CT, and graduated from Windham High School in 1960. She retired after twenty-seven years as a kitchen aid working in dormitory kitchens at UConn. Marylou was known for her loving personality, generous spirit, her love of holidays, and all of the times that brought her family together. She found joy in her summer vacations spent at Misquamicut at the Bender cottage, working in her vegetable gardens, and cooking in the kitchen preparing home cooked meals for her family to enjoy around her big dinner table. We will forever be grateful for her teaching us how to make Golabki, Kluski, and Skwarki, keeping her Polish heritage alive for the family generations that follow. But by far, her greatest joy came from spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, all of whom she loved immeasurably.

She is survived by her husband, Robert (Bob) Delmastro, spending fifty-five years together. She is also survived by her son, John (Jamie) Bender, Jr. and their children, Jordan Bender and Colton (AnnaMarie) Bender, by her son in law, Steven Gould and sons, Benjamin (Rachel) Gould, and Brian Gould. Marylou also is survived by her brother, William (Mindy) Czajka, her sister, Patricia Phaneuf, sister in law, Carol Czajka, along with many nieces and nephews. She also will be deeply missed by her granddaughter, Kaitlyn LaPointe, and great grandchildren, Addison, Jack, Harley, and Annie; as well as her grandsons, Kyle Judd, and Christopher Judd and their father and Marylou’s son in law, Daniel Judd. She will be reunited in heaven with her parents, her daughters, Lisa Gould and Laurie Judd, her granddaughter, Kiana Judd, her brother Edward “Louie” Czajka, brother in law, Robert Phaneuf Sr., and nephews, Randy and Robert “Bobby” Phaneuf Jr. Marylou’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family were the hallmarks of her life. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
A Mass will be celebrated on Monday May 11, at 10am at St Joseph Church 99 Jackson St, Willimantic. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

02/08/2026

Jeffrey Schiller, 61, of Griswold passed away Tuesday January 20, 2026.

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02/05/2026

William L. Lovely II, 73, of Willimantic, beloved husband of Brenda (Durandetto) Lovely, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Middlesex Hospital.

He was born on October 5, 1952, in Hartford, Connecticut, the son of the late William and Frances (Jenkins) Lovely, and was raised in Willimantic. William was deeply devoted to his family and took great pride in his roles as a husband, father, grandfather, and brother. Those closest to him knew him as a man who expressed love through loyalty, steadiness, and quiet strength.

William proudly served his country in the United States Military during the Vietnam War, reflecting a strong sense of duty and patriotism. Outside of his family and service, he found joy in the outdoors and maintained a lifelong passion for fishing, clamming, and hunting, pursuits that brought him peace and fulfillment.

In addition to his wife Brenda, William was predeceased by his life partner of 24 years, Mary J. Woods; his brothers, Steven Parkmen and Michael Lovely; and his nephew, Jaime Dancosse.

He is survived by his children, Mark Cargo and his wife Maria of Connecticut; Heather Lovely-Fouse and her husband Thomas (TJ) of Pennsylvania; and Eva Mae Avery and her husband Joshua of Connecticut. He is also survived by his sisters, Andrea McCall and her husband Joe Sullivan of Florida, and Kimberly Lovely-LaFlamme and her husband Michel LaFlamme of Connecticut.

William was a devoted grandfather who cherished each of his grandchildren: Julianna and Benjamin Cargo; Nicholas Pennewell-Garcia; Jaden Etchison; Keira Lovely; Bryan Fouse and Thomas Fouse III; Isaiah and Ahviel Rodriguez; and Cameron, Barry, Rilee, and Sage Avery. His love for them was boundless, and they brought immense joy to his life. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews, including Robert, Amy, Edwin, Wayne, and Michael, as well as many great-grandchildren and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to call on Tuesday, February 10, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Bacon Funeral Home, 71 Prospect Street, Willimantic.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in William’s memory to the Vietnam Veterans of America

02/04/2026

Why choose Bacon Funeral Home ? We take great pride in caring for each family that enters our home and will work to provide you with a beautiful tribute to your loved one. We want to help you through your difficult time. Family owned and operated since 1916.

Bacon Funeral Home in Willimantic, CT provides funeral, memorial, aftercare, pre-planning, and cremation services to our community and the surrounding area... Learn More

01/31/2026

Diane D. Cox, 67, of Willimantic, passed away on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. She was the daughter of the late Alphege and Beatrice (Dion) Maclure.

Born on January 1, 1959, in Willimantic, CT, she was loved by many and touched many people's lives. Everywhere she went, she was a presence. She loved having a good time and making people smile; she would help anyone who asked. She was a kind and loving person. Her family was the world to her, even her extended family who have always been by her side through all the ups and downs.

She is survived by her daughter Brandi Cameron; her brother Arthur Maclure; her sisters Jacky Gordon, Joan Maclure; her nephews, her nieces, and her cousins.

Services will be private. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

01/30/2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Dennis Bailey on Friday January 30, 2026. Dennis was the son of Raymond and Ruth Bailey born on January 29, 1949 in Bluefield, WV. He moved to Connecticut in 1961 and became a long time resident of Mansfield.

After graduating from E. O. Smith high school, Dennis served 4 yrs in the US Air Force with a stint in Pakistan. Upon returning home he resumed a position at UConn in the IT Dept where he had worked part time as a student. He retired from the university in '03 with over 38 years of service as a supervisor on third shift. He made long time friends, especially Ann. He had a life long passion for fishing especially in the Mansfield and Quaddick state parks. He was a member of the Windham Fish and Game club. He also enjoyed many summers camping and fishing in Rhode Island with his family as well a traveling throughout the United States with his wife. He was an avid UConn Women's Basketball fan never missing a game and he especially enjoyed the precious time spent with his family.

Dennis leaves behind his beloved wife of 55 years, Sandy Trudeau Bailey; daughter Karen Bailey and granddaughter, Elyse Macha and members of the Bailey, Lawless and Warinsky families. He was predeceased by his brothers, Raymond, Robert and Carson Bailey.

A graveside service in St. Joseph Cemetery, Windham will be held Thursday Apr 23, at 11am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Willimantic VFW 630 Valley St, Willimantic, CT 06226. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

01/29/2026

Aaron Joseph ( AJ) Perry
October 12, 1976 - 1/26/2026

Aaron was born in Gaston NC to the late George R Perry and the late Louise Hinkle Perry.

He is survived by his mother Patricia Perry of Scotland CT who raised him as her own since he was 8 years old. He is survived by his sister's Jennifer Willette and her husband Roger of Scotland , Wendy Berlepsch and her wife Lucia of Edinburg Scotland UK , Priscilla Perry of Vernon CT and a brother Kenneth Perry and his fiance Robert of Oakdale CT. His only niece Araya Reilly of Vernon. Aaron also leaves behind a wonderful woman who has brought him so much joy and companionship the last few years Eileen Mercedes Figueroa, she was his partner in faith and his favorite dance partner. He had many friends in fellowship at his church but Josh Lewis was always there for him throughout his illness visiting and helping out with whatever he needed. A true caring friend. Aaron leaves his Uncle Rodney of Scotland CT who was his sidekick throughout his life spending time together watching Nascar, Football and going to the drag races and of course they were both avid FORD fans. As Aaron's illness progressed Rodney took on the role of healthcare advocate bringing him to treatments and medical appointments and advocating for him. And of course taking him out to eat Aaron's favorite pastime eating. They definitely had a special relationship. Thank You for everything you did for making Aaron's journey easier. He leaves his Aunt's Joan Perry Doyle and her husband Ray of Scotland, Janet Garson and her husband David of Columbia CT, Uncle's Fred Perry and his wife Charlene of Scotland CT, Jim Hinkle of Somers CT , William Callahan and his wife Britt of Florida and Aunt Linda Collenburg of South Carolina. He is predeceased by his Uncle David and his wife Bridget Perry and cousin Elijah Perry. He leaves numerous cousins to mourn his passing especially his cousin Sean another avid Ford and race fan who was with him through the good times and the rough ones spending time with him and talking about cars and making sure he was okay.

Aaron graduated from Parish Hill High School in 1994 and joined the Army and was stationed in Anchorage AK , loving the Alaskan people after his enlistment he joined the Air Force Reserves and lived in Alaska for 10 years it was in Alaska he became a disciple of the Anchorage Church of Christ. He returned to CT in 2004 and continued being a member of the Air Force Reserves which he served for 20 yrs and retired as a SSGT. He joined the Greater Hartford Church of Christ upon his return and has been a loyal worshipper of the Lord . He worked as a material handler at Pratt Whitney until his illness prevented him from continuing. He fought like a warrior for the last 7 years against brain cancer always with a positive attitude and a contagious smile.
Fly High Aaron you have gained your wings and are now free of cancer, seizures and pain. Your smile , laugh and memorable voice will be missed but we know you are in the Lord's hands cheering on your Red Sox , 49ers and your nascar drivers and of course looking for someone to play scrabble with.

The family would like to thank the staff at Vanderman Place for the loving care and support you gave him throughout his rehabilitation and his final days.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to The Greater Hartford Church of Christ ( Benevolent Fund) 1417 Stanley St New Britain, CT. 06053.

Services will be on Saturday March 14,2026 1:00 pm at The Greater Hartford Church Of Christ 1417 Stanley St New Britain, CT 06053. Internment will be in the Palmertown Cemetery Scotland, CT in the Spring. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

01/29/2026

Patricia A. Stoddard, 67, of Hampton wife of Robert A. Stoddard Sr. passed away Wednesday January 28, 2026 at Backus Hospital.

Born on October 31, 1958 in Norwalk, CT she was the daughter of the late Bruce and Ida (Murphy) Scott Sr.

Services are private. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.baconfh.com

01/28/2026

Richard J. Riquier, 83, of Willimantic devoted husband of Janet A. (Messier) Riquier passed away Friday January 23, 2026. He was the son of the late Wilfred and Aldea (Garceau) Riquier.

Born on February 2, 1942 in Willimantic, CT he was a devout Catholic and lifelong communicant of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Willimantic. He attended St Mary’s Parochial School and Windham High School both in Willimantic, before partnering with his brother in the family business; R.J. Riquier, Inc. Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning. Prior to his retirement, Richard served as President, having played a key role in the business for more than 50 years.

Richard loved to travel, even if it just meant hopping in the car with Janet for a drive to take in the scenery. In his younger years, he and Janet would frequently take their children on driving trips to Canada and camping in the Catskills. In his retirement years, Richard and Janet joined many pilgrimages with Bishop Michael Cote and Monsignor Brown, Chancellor of the Diocese of Norwich, visiting Italy including the Vatican in Rome; France including Paris and Lourdes; Ireland, Portugal, and Israel.

Besides his wife of 61 years, Janet, he is survived by four children Laurie Stilwell of Lebanon, CT; Allen Riquier of Chaplin, CT; Jane (Michael) Roberts of Willimantic, CT and Carol (William) Ashburn of Concord, NC. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Richard was preceded in death by his brothers Raymond Riquier, Henry Riquier, George Riquier, and his sisters Irene Williams and Alice Riquier.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Catholic Church 46 Valley St. in Willimantic, CT on Wednesday, February 4th at 10am. Interment will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 134 Club Road, Willimantic, CT.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Church Repair Fund, 80 Maple Avenue Willimantic, CT 06226.