Meriden Elks Lodge 35

Ryan Andrew Ziemba (44)

admin — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:16:59 +0000

November 11, 1980 – October 3, 2025

Ryan Andrew Ziemba, also known as RAZ or just Ziemba, passed away on Friday October 3, 2025. Ryan leaves behind his cherished wife Lindsay (Hughes) Ziemba and his devoted parents, Walter and Kathy Ziemba.

Ryan was born in Meriden, CT on November 11, 1980, to Walter and Kathleen (Curneal) Ziemba. He grew up in Meriden graduating from both parochial and public schools and was a parishioner of St. Stanislaus Church. Ryan’s love for learning, education, and books was ever present even at a young age, as he went on to earn various degrees, including a B.A. in Political Science from Trinity College in Hartford, scholarly achievement in music business from Berklee College of Music in Boston where he played the trumpet and started his own artist management company, Take Care Entertainment, as well as an M.B.A. from the prestigious Columbia University in the City of New York.

Ryan would describe himself as a music industry optimist. He embodied the true spirit, drive, and tenacity of an entrepreneur, and was the visionary founder and CEO of his beloved Cuttime, Inc, a unique business venture that started with a plan written on sticky notes and remained his life’s work and passion.

His deep love for fishing and music was a defining part of his spirit – sincere, enduring, and unmistakable. Ryan embraced every opportunity to fish, always determined and curious, learning new knots and experimenting with new lures in the great pursuit of the next catch. His unwavering hope was persistent, despite it often being a “dog day for fishin.”

His heart was equally drawn to music; it was a source of positivity and comfort amid the noise of life. The gritty style of 90’s grunge and alt rock clearly a favorite, with radio 104.1 at the ready. But no matter the decade or genre, he would not just hear the notes but genuinely feel their profound impact. The music spoke to him and served as a direct connection to his soul. He would describe a goosebumps reaction to a song meant it was a good one, and you bet you’re a$* the volume was cranked up! Simply put, “music expresses that which cannot be put into words.”

He brought the Mandolin (not a ukelele!) to life with his touch, with many sounds of blue grass tunes, and often with his Dad accompanying him on the accordion. Through the years, this was a common sight at the infamous Ziemba Christmas parties.

Ryan was a history aficionado and fascinated by Viking history and Nordic lore, countless books, documentaries, and even visiting Scandinavia and Iceland. He equally loved his heritage, with a profound admiration for Poland and Ireland.

He was a poet in his own right, and lover of words with nothing less than an exceptional vernacular. Some of his literary favorites included William F. Buckley, Oscar Wilde, and Friedrich Nietzsche.

Ryan and his family made many special memories with their annual summer trips to Cape Cod and winters in Vermont. He was an avid skier, skiing filled him with a sense of freedom and sovereignty. Combining his passions, he started the first ever concert music series at Okemo Mountain.

We will dearly miss this one-of-a-kind shining star, bright, funny, and ready to make you laugh. He was sincere, selfless, compassionate, and creative. He later became an advocate for mental health and neurodiversity in entrepreneurship.

In addition to his wife Lindsay, and his parents, he leaves behind many devoted aunts and cousins, and his best companion, who spent days by his side, often making loud appearances on work conference calls, the biggest big dog, Rollo. He was pre-deceased by his aunts Charlene Curneal Carothers, Jean Ziemba Shibetta; his uncles Michael Figuernick, Robert Ross and his cousin Lee Baigert.

We celebrate this beautiful life taken too soon, and raise our hearts and our glasses, with one of his favorites, a shot and a beer, or a sazerac (just please don’t dump the rinse). Cheers to you, Z, on your next adventure, we know you’ll accomplish everything you set out to do and then some, and we’re all here supporting and sharing our endless love for you. Shine bright, sunshine.

Sto lat, sto lat, niech zyje zyje nam!

For online condolences please visit:

John J. Ferry & Son’s Funeral Home

Dawn DeFigueiredo (57)

admin — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 00:03:30 +0000

October 11, 1967 – October 3, 2025

Dawn DeFigueiredo, age 57, of Wallingford passed away suddenly at home on October 2, 2025. She was born in Meriden, CT, the daughter of the late Nelson and Carolyn Falcigno DeFigueiredo. Dawn was a proud graduate of Lyman Hall High School, Class of 1985. She was employed with SNET, followed by SBC and then AT&T. She had a successful 40-year career in communications prior to retiring earlier this year. Dawn was a longtime member of Elks Lodge #35 in Meriden. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Dawn was deeply committed to rescuing dogs and ensuring they enjoyed a high quality of life. Her empathy for animals was a notable aspect of her character. She also cherished time spent in Saratoga and her cottage in Rhode Island, where the peaceful surroundings brought her comfort and happiness. She appreciated celebrating milestones and maintained close friendships, particularly with Kelly, Tammy, Leslie, Ranae, and Donna, as well as many others throughout the years. She is remembered by her brother Nelson Jr, his wife Darlene, nephew Carter, cousins Dawn Grimes and Danny Dunn, and Uncle Jerry Dunn. She was predeceased by her friend Joleen Williams, parents Carolyn and Nelson DeFigueiredo Sr., Aunt Anna Dunn, and her grandparents. May her memory comfort all who knew her. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated in the Most Holy Trinity Church, 84 North Colony Street, Wallingford on October 14 at 10:00am. Please meet directly at church. There will be no hours of visitation. Interment will follow at the family plot in St. John Cemetery, Wallingford. Wallingford Funeral Home 809 N. Main St. Ext., Wallingford, has been entrusted with arrangements. In lieu of flowers please donate a monetary gift to the no kill animal rescue of your choice in Dawns name.

View tthe obituary here

Paint Night June 2025

admin — Sat, 05 Jul 2025 01:40:44 +0000

Patriotic Paint Class Brings Out Creativity and Camaraderie at Elks Lodge 35

On June 22nd, Elks Lodge 35 hosted a Patriotic Paint Class with Sarah, and it was a resounding success! Members and guests gathered in the Lodge’s lounge space for an afternoon filled with creativity, laughter, and a touch of red, white, and blue inspiration.

The event ran from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m., offering participants all the materials needed to create their very own Statue of Liberty silhouette bursting with patriotic flair. Under Sarah’s friendly guidance, the group brought the room to life with brush strokes, personal flair, and a few jokes shared between sips and snacks.

These photos from the day, (kindly shared by Sarah), tell the story best: rows of easels lined with proudly painted canvases, tables covered with festive star-spangled tablecloths, and smiling participants focused on their artwork. Each painting may have followed the same theme, but no two were alike, a reminder of the individuality and spirit that makes events like these so special.

Whether seasoned painters or first-timers, attendees left with more than just a canvas, they walked away with memories, new friendships, and a deeper connection to their Lodge community.

A huge thank you to Sarah for her excellent instruction and to everyone who signed up, showed up, and helped make this patriotic afternoon such a success.
Stay tuned for future paint nights, & please let us know if you’d like to see more of these events as well.

Alan Arthur Trudel (76)

admin — Mon, 12 May 2025 01:21:45 +0000

March 15, 1948 – December 1, 2024

Alan Arthur Trudel, 76, of Niantic, CT passed away Sunday, December 1, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Margaret (Ivers) Trudel.

Born March 15, 1948 in Hartford, CT he was the son of the late Edwin and Frances (Kelly) Trudel.

Alan received an education from the University of New Haven and spent his career opening his own business, Spectrum Construction. He later worked for O&G Industries as a Construction Superintendent, responsible for managing new school construction projects all around the State, including many at the University of Connecticut. He also obtained a pilots license in Opa-locka, Florida.

Alan loved being at home in Niantic and spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed bringing people out on his boat, Freedom, for fishing trips, and spending time on Block Island; as it was a family tradition to voyage over on Freedom with his wife and children every summer. He found great peace on the water. He also enjoyed spending time in Maine, trekking throughout his land near Mt. Katahdin. Most importantly, he loved being so involved in his two boys’ lives – they were the greatest joy of his life.

In addition to his wife Margaret, he is survived by two sons, Philip Trudel and wife Isabel Trudel of Block Island; John Trudel and wife Kayla Trudel of Oakdale, CT; three sisters, Ellen Van Hennik, Mary Scarlett, Marcia Durgan; 33 nieces and nephews, and several great nieces and nephews. He was also overjoyed to be adding two new grandchildren into the family in 2025. He was predeceased by his brother Philip Trudel and sister Andrea Trudel.

Alan loved his family and friends and left a lasting impact on everyone he met, always sharing his wisdom and love for life.

For online condolences please visit:

John J. Ferry & Son’s Funeral Home

Buddy Altobello (75)

admin — Sun, 09 Feb 2025 23:09:10 +0000

July 8, 1949 – February 6, 2025

Emil “Buddy” A. Altobello, Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Emil “Buddy” Altobello Jr., 75, of Meriden, Connecticut. Surrounded by loved ones, Buddy passed away on Feb 6th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of commitment, kindness, and unwavering devotion to his community.

Born July 8, 1949, Buddy grew up in Meriden and attended city public schools before graduating from the Wilbraham Academy. In 1987 after discussions with family and friends the call of public service captivated Buddy, and he was elected to the Meriden City Council. While serving the city Buddy was the chief architect of no less than five budgets. Experience he would eventually need when he was called upon to help the state as the Vice Chair of Finance, Revenue, and Bonding Committee and later as Chair of the Capital Preservation and Restoration Commission.

In 1985 Buddy retained his realtors license, but he was never driven by capital-his only true passion was helping people. Given opportunities to create wealth, he instead saw it as one friend put it his noblesse oblige to uplift those in need, always prioritizing service over self-interest. The idea of selling houses or chasing financial gain would have bored him to no end, but sitting with people, truly listening to their struggles, and finding ways to help-that was what made Buddy come alive and what he believed to be his true duty.

In 1994, he was elected to the Connecticut State House of Representatives. For the next 26 years, Buddy proudly represented the people of the 82nd District in the State House, placing their needs above all else. A man of principle and pragmatism, he was respected on both sides of the aisle for his integrity, his ability to bring people together, and his deep love for the city he called home. Buddy was a man who listened more than he spoke, a rare quality in a politician that made his words even more powerful when he did choose to wield them. This thoughtful approach to conversation and leadership earned him deep respect from friends, colleagues, and constituents alike, proving that true influence comes not from the volume of one’s voice, but from the depth of one’s compassion and understanding. As Deputy Speaker of the House under two separate leadership teams he used this skill set to secure state funding for numerous projects. His efforts helped shape Meriden for generations to come, a lasting testament to his dedication and love for the place he called home.

Beyond politics, Buddy was a man who cherished the simple yet profound values of respect, understanding, and kindness. He believed in the power of human connection, the importance of listening, and in the need for pragmatic solutions over partisan divisions.

In lieu of flowers or donations, we ask that you honor Buddy’s memory by carrying his ideals with you as you travel through life: approach the world with an open heart, treat others with respect and compassion, and always seek common ground. Words especially meaningful in today’s landscape.

Buddy Altobello may no longer walk among us, but his spirit will live on in the city he loved, in the people he served, and in the lessons, he leaves behind.

Buddy is survived by his two sons, E.J. Altobello and Michael Altobello, his siblings, Lynn Altobello, Toni Goode, and Joel Altobello, and his family Roy, Nancy, Joann, Michele, Cricket, Adam, Meredith, and Madison.

Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Thursday, February 13th at the John J. Ferry & Sons Funeral Home, 88 East Main St., Meriden, CT 06450 from 3-7 pm. A Memorial Service will be held at the funeral home at 7pm. Burial will be private.

For online condolences please visit:

John J. Ferry & Son’s Funeral Home

Gloria M. (Decker) Kwolek (86)

admin — Tue, 21 May 2024 01:53:54 +0000

December 20, 1937 – May 16, 2024

Gloria M. (Decker) Kwolek’s Obituary

Gloria M. (Decker) Kwolek, 86, of
Meriden, loving wife and best friend for 57 years of the late Richard M.
Kwolek, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her devoted daughter,
Thursday, May 16, 2024. Gloria was born in Meriden, December 20, 1937, the daughter of the late Christian P. Decker and Marion
(Heineman) Decker and was a lifelong resident of Meriden. She was employed as a paraprofessional for the Meriden Board of Education until her retirement. Gloria was a parishioner of St. Andrew’s Episcopal
Church, a member of the Meriden Elks Lodge #35, the North Italian Home Club Ladies Auxiliary, Emblem Club 224, and the South Meriden Lions Club. Gloria enjoyed and looked forward to getting together with her high school lunch bunch and her birthday bunch. She was a huge fan of the Boston Red Sox.She is survived by her daughter Ellen S. Kwolek of Meriden; her grandson Ryan and two great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her son John J. Kwolek; and her brother Christian P. Decker Jr.

For Gloria’s full obituary, please CLICK HERE

Carol J. Burns (91)

admin — Fri, 10 May 2024 15:34:48 +0000

May 29, 1932 – May 7, 2024

Carol J. Burns Obituary

Carol J. Burns, 91, wife of the late Robert L. Burns, died on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at CT Baptist Homes. Born in Kittery Pt., Maine on May 29, 1932, she was the daughter of the late Cecil and Blanche Ladd. She had resided in Meriden since 1970 and had graduated from the Train Academy of Kittery, Maine, Class of 1949.

Carol was employed by Sears in Boston from 1954 to 1970 and later worked at the Record Journal from 1979 to 1997 on Crown St. in Meriden. She was a member of the B.P.O.E. #35 Elks of Meriden.

She is survived by her niece, Kimberly Clark of Massachusetts, and three nephews, Scott Clark of Maine, David Clark of California, and Gary Clark of Kentucky. She was predeceased by her sister, Jacqueline Clark and twin brother, Gordon C. Ladd.

For Carol’s full obituary, please CLICK HERE

Michael James Salzillo (81)

admin — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 04:43:32 +0000

AUGUST 20, 1942 – MARCH 17, 2024

Michael James Salzillo’s Obituary

Michael James Salzillo, 81, of Plantsville, passed away Sunday morning, March 17, 2024, at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford.

Michael was born on August 20, 1942, in New Britain, Connecticut, to James Salzillo and Florence Lalla Salzillo. Michael was eager to serve his country and achieved his GED while in the Air Force.

Mike was a man dedicated to his family, and to his work. He married Susan Marinone Salzillo in 1979, and they had four children – Michael, Matthew, Mark, and Mandy. The house was always full of the sounds of children, both his own and their friends, much to the chagrin of Susan trying to keep them quiet while Michael slept.

Michael made incredible sacrifices for his family, the most prominent being his decision to work the night shift, driving for UPS between Hartford and Albany. Working nights paid better and was instrumental in helping the family make ends meet. He also often worked significant overtime to help provide for his family.

He cared for his children fiercely always making time to play and teach. Throwing, catching, riding bikes, fishing… Michael loved the time he had with his children, often forgoing sleep after driving all night on Friday to spend Saturday with them.

Michael’s affection for his children only intensified after he and Susan split in the early 2000s, and that affection turned to pride as each of his children started their own careers and their families.

The family was a constant for Michael, and he never moved further than one town away from Southington, where his mother, Florence, and sister, Amy, lived, a place he loved deeply. He was constantly visiting his childhood home, which was still occupied by his mother and sister, until recently. His older brother Jimmy moved to Maine, which was a favorite place to visit in the family motorhome.

Some of his best memories and favorite moments came from the time he spent in the motorhome, driving the family to locations like Lake George, Myrtle Beach, Nashville, and Disney for summers on end.

Michael was one-of-a-kind. He was humble, stubborn, loyal, and dedicated. He threw himself into work and did his best no matter the situation. He worked at UPS for more than 45 years and never had one accident, driving well over a million miles in that time. Quite likely, the best attribute anyone could take from meeting and knowing Michael was the value of hard work.

In the end, Michael cultivated and loved a simple life. He loved his children, his work, his cars, his country, and, like any good Connecticut resident, he loved all things UConn.

Michael is survived by his brother Jimmy, sister Amy, four children and their spouses – Michael and Joanna, Matthew and Jackie, Mark and Melissa, and Mandy and Brian, as well as his eight grandchildren.

For Michael’s full obituary, please CLICK HERE

Judy Boyd (70)

admin — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 14:30:00 +0000

June 28, 1953 – March 25, 2024 (70)

Maureen Ellen Flynn (74)

admin — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 00:57:06 +0000

September 26, 1949 – March 25, 2024 (74)

Maureen Ellen Flynn’s Obituary

Maureen Ellen Flynn, 74, passed away on Monday, March 25, 2024, at MidState Medical Center. She passed away peacefully after a battle with cancer, which she fought with humor, grace, and dignity. Born in Meriden, September 26, 1949, the daughter of late Faith (Leary) Kjellson and the late John Flynn.

She spent 24 years as the Democratic Registrar of Voters in Meriden and loved every minute of it. She also spent many years working for her adoptive family, the Siebert’s, at Meriden Insurance.

Maureen was active in the community, having served past president of the LAOH in Meriden, as well as past New Haven County President; a member of Meriden Elks, organizing the Flag Day Essay contest; charter member and past Vice President of the South Meriden Lions; and a past President of the American Legion Auxiliary.

Maureen had been blessed with many good friends and was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.

She is survived by her sister Joann Flynn Noonan, her nephew, James Flynn, his wife Kelly Roman and their three children, whom she adored, Maggie, Colin, and Tessa. She is also survived by her Uncle John (Jack) Leary; her stepbrother and his wife Carl and Sylvia Kjellson; two nieces Emily Lewis (Patrick) and Anna Kjellson-Platzer (Evan); a great-nephew Tristan Lewis; and by many cousins, a special friend Emil “Buddy” Altobello, as well as two special honorary “little people”, Angelo and Trisha Calandra, who affectionately called her “Grammy”.