Dorothy V. Howard

February 13, 2023

Dorothy Howard (nee Zaleski) was called home to Our Lord on February 13, 2023, at the age of 92. She is survived by her children, Shawn Howard of Torrington, and Leslie Howard of Hamden, as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Stanley and Teofilia Zaleski; as well as siblings Stanley, Sophie (Hamele), Josephine (Sadowy), Rose (Newhall), and Helen (Stoffan).

Dorothy was born on July 26, 1930, in Bridgeport, wherein she came of age, attending St. Michael’s Elementary and Harding High School. She worked at Sikorsky Aircraft, where she met her husband, Robert. They raised their two children in Milford, CT. Dorothy subsequently worked at Milford Public Works Department and then served as a Tax Clerk in Milford. She retired in the mid-1990s, after which she spent several years volunteering at the Connecticut Hospice in Branford and was an active member of the Harugari Singing Society of West Haven.

Dorothy loved all holidays and celebrations, she had a particular way of making Christmas absolutely magical, even using talcum powder to make reindeer “paw prints” across the living room carpet. She was involved in both of her children’s scouting activities, arts and crafts, as well as swimming lessons. She was adventurous, funny, and had an almost childlike curiosity about everything around her.

The space that Dorothy leaves behind is vast. She was a beautiful and loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, and friend. This world was better because of her, and she will be missed beyond measure.

Her family would like to thank the staff of Luther Ridge of Middletown, where Dorothy lived in her final years, and the staff of Yale-New Haven East Pavilion 7, where Dorothy was cared for in her final days.

Arrangements were entrusted to West Haven Funeral Home at the Green. Calling hours will take place on Friday, February 17th, from 4 to 7 o’clock. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, 10 o’clock, at St. John Vianney Church, 300 Captain Thomas Boulevard, West Haven. Interment will remain private. You may offer an online condolence or share a memory by visiting www.westhavenfuneral.com