Obituary: John Bafuma, 76, Of Meriden

MERIDEN, CT — (From Wallingford Funeral Home): John Bafuma, 76, passed away on April 28, 2024 at Midstate Medical Center.

Born on May 30, 1947, and originally hailing from Middletown, CT, longtime Meriden resident John Bafuma was mythical on the Salmon and Blackledge River banks. Feared by trout, stocking trucks, and opposing fishermen, nary was there a skunked visit to the streams. While opening days will continue without him, some say they can sense John’s spirit at Comstock Bridge and occasionally hear him enjoying a ritualistic post-fishing Lemon Pie and coffee in the State Forest.

Though a U.S. Postal Worker by trade, Coach Bafuma was passionate about mentorship. Director of the South Meriden Basketball League for decades and a revered drill sergeant for multiple basketball and baseball leagues for over 40 years, players could feel his love through repeated wind sprints. And hear it through his “light-hearted” halftime speeches.

Even in his last days, athletes of yesteryear would often say hello when they spotted Coach Buff in town.

Son of the late Salvatore & Anna Zezech Bafuma, beloved husband of Dianne Bafuma (Meriden, CT), father of Patrick (Santa Barbara, CA) and Carrie Bafuma (Meriden, CT), John is also survived by his sister Irene Zavednak (Wellington, FL), 4 grandchildren, and a large extended family that he much loved. He is additionally survived by fellow fishing mates Tom Gaj, Jesse Anziano, Krystopher Hettrick, as well as his ever-competitive Fantasy Football team, Legends inc, and thousands of former players.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in John's memory can be made to the Boys & Girls Club of Meriden, 15 Lincoln Street, Meriden, CT 06451

For more information and to leave online condolences, visit Wallingford Funeral Home here.