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Robert Terentieff Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Robert Terentieff
Frank J Ellison
July 17, 2025
Just a few days before Father T passed, he was going to come to our house to celebrate a Mass for my Aunt and Godmother Helen Bednar, who he knew very well and often visited, (along with our whole family as well), to truly celebrate her 90th birthday. I bought all of the necessary altar cloths and mass cloths, along with cruets, natural candles etc. and everything else that he had instructed me to buy for the proper and respectful celebrating of the mass in our home in Bridgeport. As that day grew closer, I tried multiple times to follow up with him and left messages with no return from him. I was starting to get disappointed and couldn't understand why he wasn't returning my calls. I didn't know what was wrong or what had happened. When we were eventually but shockingly made aware of what happened we were so incredibly saddened to find out of his untimely passing. My sister, aunt ad myself attended his services feeling all along that somehow during that time, he was somehow still celebrating the mass for my aunt that he was so looking forward to. I'll always remember him, his genuine caring as a priest and a friend, and still see his beauty and art talent in his stained glass work I believe on the entrance to the Stratford Library, in the Firehouse Art Gallery in Milford, as well as in his beautiful, hand-made Christmas ornaments he gave to us through the years. So, rest in peace Father T. and continue to give those thought -provoking sermons you always did at the masses you celebrated, properly clothed in your very beautiful original and artistic priestly vestments that you so proudly wore for your masses.
We truly miss you both as the priest that you were, along with being a true family friend of ours. (My Godmother Helen has since passed. I hope you see her in heaven along with the rest of my family members that I have also lost since then, and maybe, just maybe, in some way, you can somehow celebrate a mass together with all of them.
Frank Ellison
Joan Bruchansky Murcko Lavery
August 20, 2011
I met Fr T in 1969 when he was in SS Cyril & Methodius. He was a great friend and spiritual advisor,
randall reece
August 1, 2011
You bought me ducklings for my birthday, you brought a huge bouquet of palms to my mother and you were one of the best friends me and my family ever had, say hello to hazel flag and to God. Tell my Dad i love him and you too! We will miss you T!!!!
Randy Reece
Wanda Caribe
July 28, 2011
My art teacher at cathedral hs you will be greatly missed my deepest condolences to all his family n friends rest in peace :(
Susan V Powers
July 27, 2011
Fr T was the first person ever to really believe in my artistic abilities and I am so blessed to have known him.
Peggy WInchell
July 27, 2011
Father T you were a great teacher. Thank you for wonderfull art classes at Kolbe Cathedral. Heaven now has you and a white christmas tree....
Peggy Winchell
Bernadette Sherwood Steele
July 26, 2011
I met Ft. T when i went to St. Andrews Church he touched our family very much and He became friends with my family and was a great listener and a good person. He has helped me thru the past several years after losing my parents and uncle. I will miss his big smile and laughter and his special way he made you feel when he said mass. God has open his arms and taken you to share in his joy of everlasting life. May your light shine down on all of us that you have touched to help us thru the void left in our lives. Our family thanks you for all you have done we will miss you.
Ann Clapham
July 26, 2011
I knew Fr. T from Georgian Court University and he was the coolest priest I've ever met in my life. He is just the type of priest we need today; modern, approachable, unconditional love, and always available anytime you need to talk. I worked with Fr. T at GCU and he would drop everything and walk clear across campus if I had a question to ask him. He wasn't one to call or email, but instead show up and have a face to face; how rare that is today with anyone you work with. My fondest memory of Fr. T and a testimony of his love of animals, was when I was having a debate with the former religious services director about whether animals have souls (and go to Heaven). Fr. T came to my rescue and agreed wholeheartedly with me that animals do indeed have souls. Fr. T would always perform the blessing of the animals each October on campus and he would even bless photos of animals that were no longer with us. I remember when Fr. T's mother was ill, he had us all send her get well cards and his dear mom sent us personalized thank you cards back. It's not hard to see where Fr. T got his warmness from. I will miss Fr. T very much, even though it has been about 6 years since I've seen him. God bless you Fr. T and enjoy painting Heaven.
Joan Kolcun Krusinski
July 26, 2011
When I think of Father T.
Franklin Ellison
July 25, 2011
Having served as an altar boy myself many years ago at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church in Bridgeport, I remember the day Father T. arrived at our church. Our sexton at the time, a Mr.Kuruc, told us, did you see our new priest--he's a big one! Even his size back then couldn't match the size of his heart to his last days. But even way back then, from challenging the altar boys to "knock him down" if we could for a dollar, to the absolutely amazing and beautiful vestments that he wore, and that again made him so unique, to his meaningful and soul-searching sermons, I can truly say Father T. is a priest that will be surely and sorely missed. I for one have never once saw him or bumped into him where he didn't immedaitely greet me with that forever present big smile across his face. We only recently started to bump into to each other at a diner in Devon, now that I live in Milford. After so many years he clearly remembered not only me, but the rest of my family as well. When he heard that my 94 year old aunt didn't get to go out to church to hear mass as she loved doing so much, on the spot Father T made an offer to my sister Irene and myself to come over to our house to say a mass for our aunt right there. We started working on the arrangements, he told me of the things I would need to supply for the preparation etc. But unfortunately my aunt got sick and was in the hopital for a time, and then Father was away on vacation but we still kept in touch. As we began to prepare for the mass again, I began to get a little concerned in that he wasn't returning my phone calls. I didn't realize what had happened until my sisters told me of his accident. In trying to follow up on this we unfortunately were given the wrong information in that we were told he was no longer in the hospital and had been released. I waited a week or so before I started calling him again leaving him messages mostly letting him know of our concern for how he was doing, but again I was receiving no returns. That was just this past week. Only this past saturday did I hear from my sister Cathy of his passing from her reading it in the newspapers. I cannot put into words how shocked and saddened I was and am at our loss of a truly different but genuine priest that we had to call our own as Father T. was.
My sisters and I just got back from the funeral mass, the cemetary burial, and the reception afterwards and have just spent so much time remembering him in so many caring ways. It was a truly warm and moving service. The beauty and creativity of his Christmas ornaments will always be treasured in our fond and loving memories of him. My aunt Helen on hearing of his death is crying and completely heartbroken. For me personally, well, I had planned on reaching out and spending some time myself talking with father T. on things I was going through and questions I keep pondering regarding my religion, my shaken beliefs etc. that I had sincerely planned to discuss with him and now I will never get the chance. I can only say that my faith is once again being challenged and I don't know where to turn for guidance any more. I was going to count on him for help and advice as I told him in my several phone calls to him, that only now do I realize will go forever unanswered. But I'll think of you once again Father T. when I make a donation to the Stratford Animal Shelter in your memory. Your love of animals, like mine, is a sure bond that we will now and forever share.
God bless you and forever be with you Father T. I'm sorry we never got another chance to follow up on our plans for the mass for my aunt, and for my hoped for talks with you. We all know that heaven is supposed to be a beautifu place. I only know that it must now be even more beautiful with your artistry and creativity added to its wonders and splendor. And I believe it will have to always remain a very happy place as well. How could it not be with that big smile of yours filling it up everywhere someone turns to look. You will be sorely missed Father T. The next time I hear it thunder, I'm going to assume one of God's angels might have found a way to meet your challenge and knock you down like us altar boys never could.
I along with so many others, will always miss you.
As Always, Franklin Ellison
Lita Akers
July 25, 2011
I'll always remember the purple art room at Kolbe-Cathedral High School. While I wasn't the most talented art student, I have to admit I did enjoy art classes with Father T. He had a special gift, and I know those who learned from him and have admired his works in stained glass will cherish those memories.
Mary Anne Gerics Levin
July 25, 2011
When we met Fr. T, my siblings and I were past the age of looking forward to "Santa" coming. But once he entered our lives, Christmas Eve was never the same! During long services, he always brought a smile to our faces when he would stop just before our pew to "re-load" with holy water and then bless our family as he processed around St. Cyril's. Although I haven't been in contact with him for years, I think of him often. I learned from him the importance of presentation when giving a gift, how to create floral arrangements, and how to decorate a Christmas tree properly. A painting, "Roman Discovery", which he created for my parents, now hangs in my home. May he rest in peace.
Mary Anne Levin
July 25, 2011
When we met Fr. T, my siblings and I were past the age of looking forward to "Santa" coming. But once he entered our lives, Christmas Eve was never the same! During long services, he always brought a smile to our faces when he would stop just before our pew to "re-load" with holy water and then bless our family as he processed around St. Cyril's. Although I haven't been in contact with him for years, I think of him often. I learned from him the importance of presentation when giving a gift, how to create floral arrangements, and how to decorate a Christmas tree properly. A painting, "Roman Discovery", which he created for my parents, now hangs in my home. May he rest in peace.
Kim Kopasz-Arsenault
July 25, 2011
Father T was my favorite teacher! He was a kind, caring, talented man with a smile like sunshine. I will remember him with fondness always.
Mary Kowalewski
July 25, 2011
Father T. will forever live in the hearts of those he touched. He was an incredibly talented man who would always put a smile on your face. There are so many memories...from his art classes which were always fun; to his support and encouragement of our choreography in the musical MAME; to his making and overseeing the Christmas decorations at St. Augustine's Cathedral church; and his wonderful love of animals--I'll never forget his beautiful dogs when we visited him at home. You are loved and will be missed Fr. T-- but now we have one very special Angel looking over us!!!
julie mckirdy
July 25, 2011
To a wonderful person who could put a smile on your face
julie mckirdy
July 25, 2011
To a wonderful person who could put a smile on your face
april hedlund(sikorski)
July 25, 2011
I have more found memories of Father T from St andrew's school in bpt, ct but some from KCHS.
July 24, 2011
I met Father T as a child. My fondest memories are of him playing hide and seek with my sister and me. He was always full of joy and love. His love of the arts influenced me to make my own mark as a studio arts major. Father T was a kind
Christmas w/Father T
Jackie Grillo
July 24, 2011
I met Father T as a child. My fondest memories are of him playing hide and seek with my sister and me. He was always full of joy and love. His love of the arts influenced me to make my own mark as a studio arts major. Father T was a kind, genuine and good-hearted man and his spirituality like a beacon to all. I will miss him dearly but will always carry a part of him in my heart.
Donna Susek
July 24, 2011
Fr T was my highschool teacher, mentor and became a lifelong friend. He married my husband and I and baptized my oldest child. Even after I moved out of state he kept in touch. I am honored to have know him and been blessed by his many gifts of living out of the box. He was so creative. His sirtit will live on as many who have been touched by him will tell of their stories and his display pieces will generate a story of their own. We love you and will miss you....Rest in peace Fr. T. The 5D's
Michelle Fusco
July 24, 2011
So sorry to hear of Father T's passing. When he was at St Margaret Mary's in Shelton, he would take my brothers and me with him after school when he made visits to Bridgeport Hospital. We would often stop at his Mom's house; I think it was on Liberty St. He was most unforgettable, talented, compassionate. He will be missed.
Robyn Rourick
July 24, 2011
I have many fond memories of Father T from my time at KCHS. He was a jolly caring man who was always able to spark a smile on anyone at any time. I particularly remember spending several intensive weeks with him up at his friend's lake house. We all shared many laughs as we explored the great outdoors! I pray that his friends and family find comfort during this difficult time in his love and memories.
Robyn Rourick, Class of 81
July 24, 2011
I remember Father T as a wonderful art teacher and a kind thoughtful adviser. My prayers and sympathies go out to his family and many friends.
Nick Panuzio
July 24, 2011
Father T was an important part of my daily life when he served at St. Andrews. His colorful flair and wonderful sermans will be remembered by many. My sympathy goes to his family.
Nick Panuzio
St Michaels Maryland
Karen Zmachinski Gulli
July 24, 2011
To a great mentor! Rest in peace Father T...
July 24, 2011
I went to Franklin School with Fr. T. We both belonged to Holy Name of Jesus Church. I next met up with him again a few years ago. His stained glass windows in the Sratford Library will keep him in my heart and prayers forever.
Joan Janosko Stouppe, New Bern, NC
RON KURUC
July 24, 2011
As an alter boy in the late 60's & early 70's at Sts Cyril & Methodius I served many an early morning daytime Mass with just myself and Fr T in attendence. A 30 minute low Service CAN be done in 10 minutes. I will also remember Fr T as having "groovy" vestments and also the first priest to use whole wheat Sacramental Host. REST IN PEACE FATHER T
Nancy Tyszka Murphy CHS-Class of 1975
July 24, 2011
Thoughts and prayers go out to Father T's family and friends. May he rest in peace.
The Staff of Lesko-Polke Funeral Home
July 24, 2011
Offering our sympathies at this time.
Doreen (Orlovsky) Sabol
July 23, 2011
Remembering Father T's "Ladies and everyone else" over the PA system before morning prayers at Cathedral High School.
Great sense of humor, a very talented man who tried to pull the shyness and talents out a junior student, and placed her in the play, Mame! However, I became so sick and missed two weeks of school, and subsequently had to relinquish the part. I'm sure he's directing "something" in heaven.
Thanks Fr. T. for your kindness and rides home from school.
R.I.P.
July 23, 2011
Father T, was a kind and gentle teacher and my mentor.
July 23, 2011
Father T. was a great artist, a wonderful friend, and a great instructor for my son. Rest in Peace, Father T. May God bless your soul, and may your artistic talents add to the beauty of Heaven. Bill, Marge Tom, and Kelly Rockwell.
Roger Festa
July 23, 2011
When I was in 7th and 8th grade at St. Mary's School in Norwalk (1962-1964), Father Terentief was a very, very young priest in the parish. From time to time, he would come to 'hang out' with the 'junior high school' guys at the school. We thought he was really cool 'for a priest.' Many years later during the late 1970's, someone pointed him out to me across the room at a conference in Connecticut, but I did not have an opportunity to speak with him. But the memories of the 'cool young priest' who took the time to talk to a bunch of 13-year-olds and treat us like young men rather than as children have remained with me all these years. Rest in peace, Father T.
Linda Dreher
July 23, 2011
I am blessed to have known Father T. He was a kind man with a wonderful spirit!
He was able to bring out parts of a person they never knew they had. Being in Mame under his direction,was an opportunity that we may never had had if not for Father T. My years at Cathedral were enrich by him! And I will be forever thankful
COLLEEN JACQUOT-ZILLI
July 23, 2011
RIP Father T
talented art teacher at Kolbe-Cathedral HS....
Shirley Beatty
July 23, 2011
I remember Father T well. From many years ago when he was at St. Andrew's, I recall his warm personality, his smiling face, interesting conversation, & great sense of humor.
Happy days in heaven Father T.
Marie Kuruc Smith
July 23, 2011
I have fond memories of Father T at both St. Cyril's and as a teacher at Cathedral High School. He was truly a "Renaissance" man - RIP, Fr. T , from one of the "Ladies of the Ensemble" (as he would bellow during "Mame")
Liz McCarthy
July 23, 2011
While I am so very sad to hear of Fr. T's passing, I know he has all of Heaven laughing. He spent many days at my house when I was growing up and we had many of his beautiful flower arrangement gracing our home. A truly great guy will be missed by all.
Mary Cranwell
July 23, 2011
Father T. selflessly gave his talents to Georgian Court University. We are so fortunate to have his stained glass treasures to honor him.
Carol LeClaire Klock
July 23, 2011
Father T. taught @ then Cathedral Girls High School when I was a student (68-72). He was a wonderful man who was part of the senior "Mame" production. I particularly remember and still think of him every time I wrap a gift, as he taught us how to do just that. What an interesting life he led and I wish him everlasting peace.
Caroline D'Avignon
July 23, 2011
Father T is a very nice man abd He was doing a great job saying the Mass at Saint Gabriel Church in Milford, Ct and I am going to miss him alot and he is now going to heaven to be with his parents. i like you father T. and you are a great priest from Caroline D'Avignon
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