Carestia, Percoski, Romano, Rookey: Recent Death Notices From Enfield

ENFIELD, CT — Here are some recent death notices from Enfield.

Louis Carestia, 72, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2025. Louis was raised in Springfield and graduated from Commerce High School in 1971. He spent most of his career in sales within the cleaning industry. After retirement, he found great joy in his favorite job, serving as an attendant at GreatHorse Country Club in Hampden, Mass. An avid golfer, Louis loved spending time on the course and was happiest when enjoying a round of golf. He also loved get-togethers with family and friends, spending time with his dog Bosox, and making people smile. On May 6, 1983, Louis married the love of his life, Donna (Fattini) Carestia, at St. Michael’s Church in East Longmeadow. He treasured time spent practicing Tae Kwon Do with his son in earlier years.

Raymond Percoski, 90, beloved husband of Irene (Christian) Percoski, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2025. Ray attended Enfield High School and soon after met the love of his life, Irene. The two eloped on May 5, 1954, beginning a marriage that would span 71 years, despite many who said they wouldn’t make it. Together they built a life in Enfield, raising a family and sharing countless memories. Ray began his working life as a sheet metal worker and later became a proud union carpenter with Massachusetts Local 656. His craftsmanship can be seen in many landmark projects, including City Place in Hartford, Hallmark Cards in Enfield, Enfield Square Mall, various Pratt & Whitney buildings, and numerous I-91 overpasses. He retired in 2000 and remained an active member of the Carpenters Retiree Union.

Joan (Chauvin) Romano, 91, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025. She graduated from Cathedral High School and later worked as a paralegal. After marrying her husband John Romano Jr. in 1959, they started Romano’s Beef and Provisions in 1961, which they successfully ran together until his death in 1979. Joan enjoyed spending summers at Hampton Beach, gardening in her yard, meeting friends at the Elks Club, and watching her UConn women’s Huskies. Later in life she enjoyed camping, traveling and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Elizabeth (Rehmer) Rookey, 64, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She graduated from Enfield High School, Class of 1979. As a child, she attended Holy Family Church. Beth married the love of her life, Ralph Rookey, and together they raised their son, Robert “RJ” Rookey, in Enfield. Ralph sadly predeceased her in 2021. In 1992, shortly after RJ was born, Beth was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). What was initially thought to be an inner ear infection turned out to be life-altering news, accompanied by a prognosis of just 2 to 5 years to live. But Beth defied those odds with remarkable grace, strength, and an indomitable spirit. RJ only ever knew his mom with ALS, and she often laughed recalling how, when he was a toddler, he found it fun when she was on the floor while trying to pick up his toys.