Recent Death Notices From Meriden

MERIDEN, CT — Below are recent death notices from Meriden.

Joseph F. Carabetta Sr. “Joe,” 97, passed away peacefully on Mar. 4, 2025. A visionary builder and New England pioneer in multifamily housing who, after serving in the Army Air Force during WWII, founded Carabetta Enterprises, Inc., built over 20,000 apartments and numerous nursing homes, led innovations in mass construction, received national recognition including a Life Magazine cover, and found joy in gardening, tending livestock, hosting legendary pig roasts, and uniting family and friends on annual Aruba trips.

Regina Crossley Nocera, 68, passed away peacefully on Mar. 5, 2025. A dedicated City of Meriden administrator who enjoyed bingo, beach trips, camping, cheering on her children and Coach Ralph, and sharing her love for The Beatles, Mickey Mouse, and her loyal Havanese, Sofia.

Jillian Ryan Kosofsky, 42, passed away unexpectedly on Mar. 6, 2025; a passionate kitchen designer at ServPro known for her creative touch, a talented athlete who excelled in softball, basketball, and baseball, a devoted NY Yankees fan who received a personal response from Derek Jeter and signed rookie card, and a vibrant spirit who loved the beach, dancing, fashion, music, and adventures in Myrtle Beach and Vinalhaven, Maine.

Manuel Goncalves, 62, passed away suddenly on Mar. 6, 2025. A skilled home improvement specialist known for his masonry work who enjoyed motorcycle rides, nature trips to New Hampshire, time with his dog Charlie, and helping others while living life to the fullest.

Helen (Walka) Filipek, 100, passed away on Mar. 7, 2025. A former switchboard operator, retail worker, realtor for over 20 years, and key contributor at “Twice is Nice” in Wallingford, who enjoyed organizing setback tournaments, watching sports—especially UConn women’s basketball—and was a master knitter who crocheted her daughter’s wedding dress.

Donald J. O’Byrne Jr., 68, died Mar. 7, 2025. A firefighter for 27 years in Wallingford before becoming a truck driver for Bozzuto’s, he enjoyed 4x4 mud bogs, knife sharpening, and chainsaw competitions, served as treasurer of S.A.L. Squadron 45 for 18 years, and joined Angelica’s Angels to support cancer research.

Beverly B. Siegel, 90, passed away on Mar. 9, 2025. A dedicated employee at Backus Fireworks, Friendly’s, and Eye Physicians who enjoyed lunches with friends, casino trips, vacations, cruises, Jimmy Sturr concerts, and watching backyard wildlife from birds to deer.