Annette M. Kalafus

Annette (Verespy) Kalafus, age 92, of Stratford passed peacefully with family at her side. Beloved wife of the late John Kalafus Jr. she was born on March 18,1929 to the late Stephen and Ann (Granatin) Verespy. She was a 1946 graduate of Stratford High School where she was a cheerleader for numerous sports teams as well as an athlete herself. She is survived by her loving daughter Lynn Venezia, her son Christopher Kalafus and his wife Lisa, her granddaughter’s Caitlin, Carly and Cori Kalafus as well her nephew William (Kathy) Verespy Jr. of Shelton, her niece Laurie Mattas of Elizabeth, IL, niece Penny (Tom) Kerr of Paradise, CA, her great-grandchildren Christopher and Nicholas and several great-nephews and nieces. She was predeceased by her husband John Jr., sons John III and Paul, her grandson Charles Gerber, her sisters Dorothy and Evelyn and brother William. Annette was a member of the original Stratford Brakettes team in 1947. She was always so proud to be associated with this important and historic organization. Annette first worked for Raybestos Manufacturing and went on to work for the Hartford Insurance Company in 1970 where she remained for over 25 years. For years she was a member of the “Jolly Bowlers” women’s group who enjoyed bowling and later in life, their weekly lunches. Annette was also part of The Women’s Network of Greater Bridgeport where she served as President and Corresponding Secretary, volunteered for the Barnum Festival, and sat on the Board of Directors for the YMCA and the Holy Name Guild along with other charitable organizations, too many to mention. Annette loved her cat Spencer (who only loved her), Libby her faithful and loving dog, cooking, bowling, the NY Giants (her tailgating menu was always a highlight), lunch with her sister, visits to Mohegan Sun and attending her grandchildren’s sports games and musical events. She was known as “Grandma Pretzels” by the girls on the Breakers

Softball team because she never attended a game without bringing pretzels and treats for the team. Annette had an amazing sense of humor and was loved by all. Her home was always an open door where food and drink were always available. Annette was known to her family and her long time dedicated and compassionate caregiver Rosette as the “The Queen” and would appropriately give a royal wave when addressed that way. On July 4, 1955 Annette served as the Queen Of The Tootsie Roll float in the Barnum Festival parade and will always be remembered by all her family as “Our Queen”. Fittingly, she passed as she had always wanted and the way she would refer to as a “Queen’s Death” meaning, gently in her sleep. We would also like to acknowledge a special thanks to Ceil another dedicated caregiver. A graveside service will take place on January 7, 2021 at 11:30 a.m. meeting directly at St. John’s Cemetery, 2610 Nichols Avenue, Stratford. Everyone in attendance must follow COVID-19 guidelines, wear a mask and practice social distancing. The Adzima Funeral Home, 50 Paradise Green Place, Stratford has been entrusted with the arrangements. For more information or to make an online condolence, please visit www.adzimafuneralhome.com She will be missed by many and her impact on so many lives will never be forgotten.