Henry Fedina
New London — Henry M. Fedina, 79, of Hillcrest Road, Niantic, died peacefully with his family by his side at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital, New London on Wednesday, April 19, 2017.
Henry (“Hank”/”Dziadzi”) was born on Jan. 17, 1938, in Hartford, the son of Michael and Mary Fedina. After graduating from Buckley High School in Hartford, Hank proudly served his country in the Air Force as a fireman stationed in Alaska. Following his honorable discharge from the Air Force, he was employed for more than 20 years in the Newington school system. He continued working after his retirement from Newington, employed for over 10 years as a security guard at Mohegan Sun. While there, he was honored with numerous awards recognizing his exemplary service.
Hank was married to Carole White on June 22, 1963. He was a deeply devoted and loving husband. Hank and Carole raised their two boys in Newington while spending summers in Niantic. When they were ready for retirement, the couple moved permanently to Niantic where they enjoyed an amazing community of beloved friends and neighbors. Sadly, after 52 years of marriage, Hank’s wife predeceased him in 2015.
Hank was very active in his church, Saint Agnes of Niantic, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus of Niantic. He was a lifelong member of the Polish National Home of Hartford and a proud member of the Polish Cultural Club of Greater Hartford. He was a longtime member of the Elks Club, Lodge 19, in Hartford. He was a dedicated volunteer at the New London Area Food Pantry.
Hank cherished his family and friends, both lifelong and new. He enjoyed hosting gatherings at his home where he welcomed all for food, fun and laughter. Hank had a remarkably generous spirit and always had a kind word for everyone. Everywhere he went, Hank took a genuine interest in the people around him. Whether his day took him to the supermarket, the pharmacy, a doctor, or the local bank, he made a point of getting to know the staff members on a first-name basis. Wherever he encountered them, he would greet them with his infectious smile and take the time for friendly conversations.
Hank loved sports, especially the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots. He was a music lover and an avid polka fan. He enjoyed sharing his prodigious knowledge of both sports and music with friends and family.
Hank is survived by his two sons, Michael Fedina of Manchester and Christopher Fedina of Niantic; his daughters-in-law, Bonnie and April; his greatly loved grandchildren, Jessica and Cameron; his dearest sister and brotherin-law, Anna-Mae and Louis Maglaty; and several much loved nieces and nephews. He was a wonderful father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He will reside forever in the hearts of all.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 25 at Saint Agnes Church, 22 Haigh Ave., Niantic. A procession to Mount Saint Benedict Cemetery, Bloomfield, for the burial at 1 p.m. will immediately follow the Mass. A repast at the Polish National Home in Hartford will begin at 2 p.m.
Fulton-Theroux Funeral Home, Niantic, is handling the arrangements. Please visit www.fultontherouxniantic.com for photos, tributes, additional service information, and directions.
In lieu of flowers, please support the New London Area Food Pantry. Donations may be sent to New London Area Food Coalition, 106 Truman St., New London, CT 06320.