Daniel R. Tarasevich

Daniel R. Tarasevich July 14, 1921 - July 13, 2013 Groton - Daniel R. Tarasevich, 91, husband of Leona E. (Riggs) Tarasevich, of 30 Tower Ave., Groton, passed away July 13, 2013 at his home. Daniel was born July 14, 1921 in Berisso, Argentina, the son of Paul and Anna (Lutzka) Tarasevich. In 1924 he came to America with his family on the S.S. Voltaire and on June 28, 1924 they entered America through the Ellis Island immigration processing center. Mr. Tarasevich spent his early years in NYC and in 1932 moved to Bozrah. He was a graduate of Norwich Free Academy where he ran cross country. On July 17, 1944, in Norwich, he was united in marriage to Leona E. (Riggs) Tarasevich. Three days later, on July 20, 1944, Mr. Tarasevich reported to duty in the U.S. Army and he fought on the German front with the 30th Infantry Division. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Combat Infantryman Badge. He also served as a translator at the conclusion of the war. On February 27, 1946 he was honorably discharged from the Army, one of the last remaining survivors of the 30th Infantry Division (Hickory). He worked for the NY, New Haven and Hartford Railroads and retired from Amtrak in 1978. While working for the railroad Mr. and Mrs. Tarasevich developed their homestead in Groton, constructing a number of trailer lots and cottages. That business (Dan's Trailer Park) continues today. He enjoyed looking for bargains at Saturday morning yard sales. He also made frequent visits to the casino and the Plainfield Dog Track. Daniel's generosity touched many lives. We are forever thankful for his honesty, caring and wit. Mr. Tarasevich is survived by his spouse Leona, his three sons, Daniel P. Tarasevich and wife Margarita of Groton, Thomas S. Tarasevich and wife Sandra of Westerly, RI, and Terry J. Walker and wife Catherine of Pompano Beach, FL, and one daughter, Donna Lee Carroll and husband Alan of Stonington CT; one sister, Helen Tetreault and husband Norman of Norwich and eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren who brought great enjoyment to him. He was predeceased by two brothers, Alexander and Augustus Tarasevich, and three sisters, Anastasia Karpilov, Marie Mateyka and Olga Grogan. A private Graveside Service will held at Maplewood Cemetery in Norwich. Memorial donations in Daniel Tarasevich's memory may be made to Beacon Hospice, 12 Roosevelt Ave. Mystic CT 06360. Many thanks to the exceptional and heartfelt care provided by Beacon Hospice. Please visit www.labenskifuneralhome.com to leave a message of condolence for Daniel's family. The Labenski Funeral Home, 107 Boswell Ave., is entrusted with arrangements.