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Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson Street, Willimantic, CT (2026)

10/14/2026

Sarah Evelyn Stern

Sarah Evelyn (Chambers) Stern, passed away on October 7, 2026.

Sarah was born January 4, 1980, in Manchester CT

Sarah was a true enthusiast of life's finer and simpler pleasures; she would proudly consider herself a foodie, always eager to discover new flavors and share exceptional meals with those she loved. Sarah also possessed a unique eye for beauty and history as an avid collector of antiques. She had a rare gift for seeing the timeless value, story, and charm in things of yesteryear, turning the forgotten into something treasured.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Elizabeth (Bothur) Kusnetzky, her stepmother, Kimberly (Trinks) Chambers, and her beloved fur baby, Lana.

Her legacy of love lives on through her family and friends. She leaves behind her cherished daughter, Evelyn Stern, and their partner Alex of Providence, RI, her father, Walter Chambers of Farmington, CT She is also survived by her sisters, Lori (Baril) Hilding and Jennifer Baril both of Venice FL, Keri Engman and her husband Matt of Coventry, and Kristy Ramsey of Rocky Hill; her brothers, Walter Chambers and his wife Denise, Scott Chambers and his wife Sonja, and Keith Chambers and his wife Michelle, all of Bristol CT, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

Her family and friends will forever remember Sarah’s memory, style, and passion for life.

A celebration of Sarah’s life will be held on October 19, 2026, at Potter’s Funeral Home (456 Jackson Street, Willimantic, CT) from 2:00 pm to 4:00pm. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate her life, where we will share stories, laughter, and the memories we cherish most.

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10/13/2026

Jean Marie Cardinal

Jean M. Cardinal, of Chaplin, CT, the widow of the late Robert A. Cardinal, passed away surrounded by her loving family on October 12, 2026 at the age of 97.

Jean was born June 19, 1929 in Manchester, CT. The daughter of the late Philippe and Jeannette (Vegiard) Tremblay. She lived most of her life in Willimantic, and was a communicant of St. Joseph’s Church.

She graduated from Windham High School and went on to graduate from the Connecticut Institute of Hairdressing in Hartford.

She worked as a hairdresser for Schultz of Manchester and Potvin’s Beauty Salon of Willimantic.

Jean raised funds for all the local charities. She was past president and secretary of St. Mary’s Guild, past president of the Women’s Republican Club, member of the Soroptimist International Club, Willimantic Girl’s Club and the American Heritage Lodge.

In 1966 after completing her apprenticeship and passing the State Boards, she received her Funeral Directors License. Jean was an associate with her late husband Robert in the operation of the Cardinal Funeral Home on Windham Road until 1986. She was office manager of the Electronic Service Company.

Upon her husband’s death in 1985, along with her two sons she took over the operation of Buttonball Trout Hatchery in Chaplin. Jean worked for her son Paul at Electronic Service Co./Cardinal TV and Appliance as a bookkeeper and sales person until 1993. She also worked as the bookkeeper for her son Brian at Buttonball and Red Wing Meadow Trout Hatcheries until 2001.

Jean was survived by two daughters. Roberta and husband John Chandler of Guilford, CT, Cynthia Galbraith of La Quinta, CA, two sons Paul and wife Roberta Cardinal of Mansfield Center. Brian and wife Terry Cardinal of Chaplin. Nine grandchildren, Tyler, Melissa and Kristen, Justin and Corey, Michelle, Robert, Shelby and Kim. She had 15 great grandchildren.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, American Diabetic Association, and the United Mitochondrial Foundation.

Jean’s family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, October 23, 2026 from 8:30am to 9:30am at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St., Willimantic, CT. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00am at St. Joseph Church, 99 Jackson St., Willimantic, with a burial to follow at Windham Center Cemetery, Windham Center.

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10/13/2026

Neal L. Moon

Neal Lason Moon December 22, 1952 – October 10, 2026

Neal Lason Moon, beloved and devoted husband of 45 years to Mary Ann (Zavaski) Moon, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Hartford Hospital. He will be remembered for his gentle demeanor, quiet confidence, and enduring strength.

Born in Putnam, Connecticut, Neal’s life was deeply enriched by music. A gifted professional trumpet player and excellent vocalist, he shared his talent generously with countless audiences and fellow musicians throughout the years. Neal faithfully played “Taps” at the Town of Hampton’s annual Memorial Day service for many years, a moving tribute that reflected his respect for the occasion and his community.

Neal was a proud member of the No. Myrtle Beach Community Band and Festive Brass. Over the course of his musical career, he performed for many years as the trumpet player with the Eddie Zavaski Orchestra, where he met the love of his life, Mary Ann. He also performed with the Sound-A-Bouts, the Polka Country Musicians, and CT based R & B/Soul band, Too Much Too Soon. In the 1990s, Neal and his brother-in-law, Eddie, formed The Generations Band. In addition to performing, Neal was an owner of Burritt Music in New Britain, where he further shared and supported his lifelong love of music.

Beyond music, Neal loved playing golf and had a lifelong passion for cars. Growing up in Hampton, he was known as a true “gearhead,” enjoying cars and good times with his Hampton friends.

In addition to his wife, Mary Ann, Neal is survived by his brother-in-law, Edward J. Zavaski, Jr.; his niece, Rachel Ann Ciufo, her husband, Dan, and their children, Julianna and Noah; his nephew and godson, Dr. Michael E. Zavaski, his wife, Alexandra, and their children, Theodore, Anna, Eleanor, and Josephine; and his nephew, Steven W. Zavaski.

He was predeceased by his parents, Henry G. Moon and Eleanor H. Moon; his half-brother, Arthur M. Hall.

Family and friends may gather on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson Street, Willimantic, Connecticut. A service immediately following calling hours will be held at the funeral home

In lieu of flowers, donations in Neal’s memory may be made to the Regional School District 11-Music, c/o Parish Hill High School, 304 Parish Hill Road, Chaplin, CT 06235.

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10/10/2026

Deborah Sweeney

Deborah Mae Sweeney passed away in the afternoon of October 7th, 2026 in Willimantic CT. Born to Maurice and Dorothy (Dukette) Sweeney on September 18th, 1959 in Burlington VT, Debbie was a Vermont native and spent a majority of her life in the central and northern VT region.

She leaves behind three daughters. Amy (Fred) Arcuri, and their two children Antonio and Claire, of Painted Post NY, Sarah Lyons, and her two children Julian and Reese, of Columbia CT, and Susan (Charlie) Post, and their two children Isaac and Lincoln, of West Bolton VT. She also leaves behind two sisters, Sandra Riggs of Eagle Mountain, UT and Jane Sweeney of Morrisville, VT.

Debbie enjoyed living a modest, peaceful, and unpretentious life. If you did see her at a gathering, she was likely off to the side, quietly enjoying the presence of her grandchildren, or trying to lure a cat within her reach.

Debbie was a voracious reader, and many tales have been told of her ability to read impossibly long Stephen King novels in one day. She spent many hours crafting, and exploring the creative arts, where success was measured in the enjoyment of the task itself, rather than in the finished product.

Debbie cared deeply about animals but never demanded their love. She was at peace around all of God's creatures, whether that creature was willing to approach her or not. She took peace in knowing that as long as that creature was safe and comfortable, that all was right in the world.

Debbie not only enjoyed listening to music, but singing it as well. And very little brought her more joy in this world than listening to her daughters' sing together.

In a modern world where everyone is constantly looking, searching, scrolling, and grasping for meaning, Debbie found meaning in being at peace. In observing. In noticing. In stillness.

This world, and its many demons, were not always kind and forgiving to Debbie, but she lived and spoke and behaved without resentment at the life that she was given. She found beauty in the spaces in between, the spaces that most everyone else overlooks.

One of Debbie’s final wishes was to be interred in a forest in the green mountains of Vermont. To be placed amongst the trees. To experience the changing seasons. To feel the cool breezes of the Summer and the changing colors of the Fall. And to do so as she lived her life – reflectively, in peace and stillness, and with love in her heart for all of God’s creatures.

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10/06/2026

Arlene J. Harakaly

Arlene Harakaly, age 84, of Willimantic, CT, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026. She was born on June13, 1942, in Norwich, CT, to Ernest and Louise Tanguay.

Arlene was a great mom, grandma, great grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Arlene grew up in Scotland, CT, working on her family’s dairy farm. Her and her sisters learned were strong and resilient from experience. She was married in 1963 to Ted Harakaly and became a homemaker, raising her four children, caring for others, and helped our father build our home. After raising her children, she worked at UConn until her retirement. She, was an excellent gardener, cook and baker. Anyone who shared a meal or dessert she made would always say, it was the best thing they ever ate. She lived for those words. It truly was her passion. She was a patient mother who really allowed us to be kids and have fun, be loud, run and express ourselves. We were very lucky to have her for a mom. She also truly loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She spent time cooking and baking with them to show them how much she loved them. They all loved her back for those experiences. In these later years, when she was told the words “I love you” she would say “ I love you more” and “ thank you for everything”. We will truly miss this great lady!

She is survived by her children, Debbie Shoaf, Theodore Harakaly, Carolyn Bryan, and Katherine Harakaly. Grandchildren, Justin Bryan, Mitchell Bryan, Daniel Bryan, Cali Van Zyl, Jacob Harakaly, Julianna Harakaly, Joshua Harakaly, Eric Ouellet, Elizabeth Ryan, and Savanah Nichols, great grandchildren, Mackenzie Bryan, Sophie Bryan, Phoenix and Ivy Cordell, and Rain Ryan, sisters, Cecile Sutcliffe, Jean Bigelow, and Nancy Trudeau. Predeceased by her son Mitchel Harakaly, parents, Ernest Tanguay, Louise Gaudreau, sisters Ann Postler, Diane Yergan, and Madeline Kiese, nephew, Stephen Harakaly.

Calling hours and Celebration of life will be held at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St., Willimantic on October 17, 2026 from 11:00 AM to 1:00PM. 456 Jackson St. Willimantic, CT.

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10/05/2026

Mark F. Mastrangelo

Mark Frank Mastrangelo passed away on October 2, 2026, at the age of 62.

Born on January 11, 1964, in Willimantic, Connecticut, Mark spent much of his life in the Mansfield area, surrounded by familiar places, family, and lifelong connections. Over the years, he worked a variety of jobs, including at UConn as a facilities worker, Foxwoods Resort Casino, and Price Chopper, before retiring in 2025.

Mark found happiness in many of life's simple pleasures. He enjoyed movies and television, Connecticut pizza, fishing, and photography, a passion he especially enjoyed in his younger years. He also had a lifelong sweet tooth and was never one to pass up a good dessert or a cold crisp coca-cola. In retirement, he enjoyed relaxing at home, watching his favorite shows, and, true to form, enjoying a good smoke.

Some of Mark's fondest memories were made at Lake Bungee, a place that held a special meaning for his family. Spending time there with his sister, cousins, and other family members was a tradition that brought generations together. The lake was a place for fishing, fireworks, laughter, stories, and simply enjoying time with the people around him.

Mark is survived by his children, Crystal (Mastrangelo) Mills, Lena (Mastrangelo) Dwelley, and Rory Ely; his granddaughter, Sophia Dwelley; his sister, Annette (Mastrangelo) Riley; his nieces and nephews, Adam Emmons, Amber Emmons, Justin Emmons, Joel Kennedy, James Milam III, and Samuel Keene Jr.

He was predeceased by his parents, Diana (Easton) Mastrangelo and Vincine (Vincent) Mastrangelo.

Mark's life was woven into the history of his family and he will be remembered by those who knew him for his unique personality, his love of simple pleasures, and the memories they shared with him over the years. His family takes comfort in knowing that he is reunited with his parents and is no longer in pain.

Mark will be laid to rest privately at St. Mary's Cemetery in Coventry, Connecticut.

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10/05/2026

Robert Wolfe Johnson

Robert “Bob” Thomas Wolfe Johnson, 78, of Coventry, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2026, after a life marked by devotion to family, service to his country and community, and a warm spirit that touched many lives.

Bob was born on October 11, 1947, in Yonkers, New York, to Dorothy Louise Wolfe. He was later adopted by G. Raymond Johnson and Rosa Wolfe Johnson, who helped shape the foundation of the man he became.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Linda Hill Johnson, his daughter, Tara Lynn Johnson, and his two cherished grandchildren, Duncan Johnson and Emma Johnson. Family was the center of Bob’s world, and he took great pride in the life he built with Linda. Their marriage was a lasting partnership filled with love, shared memories, and unwavering support through the many seasons of life.

Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1965 and served honorably until 1969. His military service reflected his deep sense of duty and commitment to something greater than himself. After completing his time in the Air Force, he carried that same dedication into his civilian life, where he continued to serve others with integrity and professionalism.

In 1979, Bob joined the Manchester Police Department, beginning a distinguished career that spanned 20 years until his retirement on January 1, 2000. During his years in law enforcement, he earned the respect of colleagues and the community alike. He approached his work with fairness, calm judgment, and a steadfast belief in doing what was right. His service left a lasting impression on those who worked beside him and those he protected.

Bob and Linda made their home in Coventry in 1983, where they became part of a community they would cherish for decades. In 2013, they purchased a home in Leesburg, Florida, and spent 13 enjoyable years there, reconnecting with old classmates and making regular visits to Disney World. Those years brought them many happy memories and the opportunity to enjoy a different pace of life while staying closely connected to the people and places they loved. Each summer, they returned to Coventry to spend time with family and friends, keeping those bonds strong and meaningful.

In November 2025, Bob and Linda sold their Florida home and returned to Coventry, where they were once again surrounded by familiar faces and the comfort of home. Bob’s final months were spent in the community he had long considered home, and he passed away in Coventry, Connecticut.

Bob will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, veteran, police officer, and friend. He lived a life defined by service, loyalty, and love. Those who knew him will remember his steady presence, his sense of humor, and the genuine care he showed to the people around him. His legacy lives on in the family he loved so deeply and in the many lives he touched over the course of his remarkable journey.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love and gratitude. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Manchester Police Department, 239 Middle Tpke E, Manchester, CT 06040. Calling Hours will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 10:00am to 11:40am at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson Street, Willimantic CT, with Military Funeral Honors at 11:40am. There is no burial at this time.

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10/05/2026

Dzidra Apinis

Dzidra (Mazjanis) Apinis, 89, of Storrs, passed away on October 3, 2026.

Dzidra was born in Valle, Latvia, the daughter of Martins and Zelma Mazjanis.

At the age of 7, her family left Latvia in the dark of night, during WWII, to seek transport at the Liepaja Port on the Baltic Sea. They were able to board an overcrowded army boat to Germany. In 1950, the family was sponsored to move to Willimantic.

In 1951, Dzidra met the love of her life, Valdis, on her walk to school. Years later she attended Bryant College where she received an associate’s degree in medical secretarial studies.

Dzidra and Valdis married in 1960 and settled in Vernon where they raised their 4 children frequently travelling to many destinations, most notably, Popham Beach. Following retirement, their travel expanded to include winters in Florida.

Dzidra enjoyed sewing and making clothes for her children. Outfits ranged from Halloween costumes to ensembles worn in fashion shows and dance recitals. Her other creative pursuits included macrame, growing African violets, baking, making pottery, and creating photo collages from pictures she had taken. Throughout her life, she was actively involved in activities. In her youth, she participated in badminton and was a majorette. Later she was involved in exercise classes and country line dancing. Dzidra enjoyed Latvian Ladies Lunch and was an active participant in park and Senior Center activities, often dressing up for themed events.

Her happiest times were spent with family, friends and the Latvian community.

Dzidra was predeceased by her husband, Valdis; sister, Aisma Mazjanis; brothers-in-law, John and Charlie Apinis; and sisters-in-law, Patricia and Johnnie Apinis.

She was survived by her children Andrew (Donna) Apinis, Laura Apinis (Susan Ewart), Ronald (Robin) Apinis and John (Wendy) Apinis; nephews, Erik (Jennifer) Apahnis, Bryan (Kathryn) Apinis; niece, Marta (Adam) Meyers; sister-in-law, Kathleen Apinis; grandchildren, Heather, Jason, Evan, Dylan, Brody, Caden and Reese; and great grandchild, Aurora Rodegher.

Dzidra’s family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 9:30-10:30 am at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St., Willimantic, with her funeral service beginning at 10:30. Burial to follow at the New Willimantic Cemetery, Willimantic.

In lieu of flowers, please send support to the American Cancer Society.

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09/30/2026

Juanita McIntosh

Juanita “Nita” McIntosh, 88, of Coventry, CT, passed away on September 25, 2026. Born and raised in Willimantic, Nita was the daughter of the late Arnold and Mary Bocash.

After graduating from Windham High School, Nita worked at American Thread and Brand Rex before retiring from her secretarial position at UConn.

Nita was a woman of strong Catholic faith and was a longtime parishioner of St. Mary Church in Coventry. She enjoyed shopping and had a particular fondness for spending time with her grandchildren, Garrett and Dewey, whom she loved to dote on. She also enjoyed the companionship of her dog, who was an important part of her life.

Nita was predeceased by her parents, Arnold and Mary Bocash, and her brother, Arnold Bocash Jr. She leaves behind her husband of 43 years, Thomas McIntosh Jr.; her sister, Kathy Knight and her husband George; her son, Michael Gunter and his wife Kathy; her grandsons, Garrett and Dewey Gunter; and her five stepchildren, Terry, Leslie, Thomas, Christine, and Allison McIntosh.

In memory of Nita, her family asks that donations be made to a local food pantry or energy assistance program.

Nita life will be honored with a private family service. She will be remembered with love by those whose lives she touched, and her memory will remain with those who knew her.

In Lieu of flowers the family kindly asks that donations be made in Juanita’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association.

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09/28/2026

Donna M. Bogdanovich

Donna Mae (Phaneuf) Bogdanovich, 89, of Mansfield, Connecticut, beloved mother and Nana, passed away on Monday September 21st, 2026. She was born on December 5th, 1936, in Hartford, CT, to the late Kenneth P. Phaneuf and F. Hedwig (Carlson) Phaneuf.

Donna is survived by her daughter Janice Olga (Bogdanovich)Wehner and her husband Russell Wehner Jr. and her granddaughters Evangeline and Anastasia (lovingly known as sugar cookie and sugar plum) of Mansfield, CT. She is also survived by her sister Chris Ann Phaneuf of VA, and brother Kenneth C. Phaneuf of CT and nieces and nephews.

She lost her husband of 68 years, George Bogdanovich, in January of this year. She was also predeceased by her son John Jay Bogdanovich of MA, and her sister Janice Phaneuf of VA.

Donna graduated from East Hartford High School where she participated in many sports. Soon after graduation she met her husband George when they both worked for his uncle’s dry-cleaning business. They were married June 8, 1957. After living in various CT towns, they settled in Ashford. They built a house, raised their children John and Janice (Johnny and Janny) and remained there for 38 years before moving to Mansfield in 2014 to live with Janice and family.

She enjoyed spending time at Lake Chaffee where her parents owned a cottage and all her family and their families gathered in the summer.

After raising her family, she enjoyed working as the first special education aide in the Mansfield school system until she retired. She loved watching UConn Basketball, Red Sox Baseball, and going to Bingo. During her retirement she took up quilting and made personal quilts for the family representing different holidays and seasons.

She was thrilled to become a Nana and adored her granddaughters, Evey and Ana. She was so proud of them while she watched their horse shows, basketball games and theater performances.

Janice:

I have amazing memories of my mom as my Girl Scout Leader for many years, taking me to dance and horseback riding lessons and attending all my recitals, concerts, and horse shows. In the summers we would have bologna and cheese sandwiches and play cards for lunch. I looked forward to The Big E every year and waited for those once-a-year movies like Wizard of OZ, Born Free, and The Sound of Music and watching them as a family. We attended many musicals at local theaters and spent Sunday nights watching Bobby Vinton, Lawerence Welk, and Wild World of Disney weekly movie. Mom and I loved going to craft shows together and finding unique gifts. When I was little, I helped her at craft shows where she sold her needlepoint and crocheted gifts. She loved to laugh and I can remember hours of playing Boggle with her and Aunt Chris and laughing until we cried. Even in the past year a grocery store run could end in laughter until we snorted. That’s what I will miss most, the laughter and love. You are now with Dad and John and I have 3 angels.

Ana:

My Nana was an incredibly kind and funny woman. Whether it be slipping me 20 dollars for gas money or laughing about an inappropriate joke, she always made others laugh. She made others smile. She was an amazing gift and advice giver. Every summer she would take my sister and I back to school shopping, never hesitating to give her opinions. She would frequently give us make-up and jewelry, teaching us when and how to wear different shades and stones.

Some of my favorite memories with her include going through her old jewelry boxes.

She would tell the story behind each piece, explaining when and why she got it, who she bought it for, and where it came from. My Nana was very thoughtful; every gift or word of advice she gave had meaning, an intention. My Nana will be missed deeply, but her legacy of love and care will not be lost.

Evey:

She was the best Nana I could ask for. She always supported my horseback riding, coming to my shows and lessons. She always had a snack waiting for me when I got home from school. My favorite memories of her are spending time at her house when my sister and I were younger, dancing around the dining room table. Nana was kind and funny, always making people laugh. She always supported me and believed in me and I will miss her greatly.

Private services will be held.

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