Bernadette Wezner

Norwich - Bernadette (Hyreniewicz) Wezner, 95, who passed away Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, will be remembered for her resilience, deep faith, quiet strength and sharp wit.

Born in Poland, Bernadette was displaced during World War II and lived in Germany as an interned Polish citizen forced to work under the Nazi regime. These early hardships shaped her lifelong values of perseverance, responsibility and compassion.

While living in a displaced persons camp after the war, she met her husband, Karol, at a dance in Germany, and together they immigrated to the United States by boat in 1951. During the journey, Bernadette became gravely ill and survived only through the care and kindness of a friend. That experience stayed with her and was reflected throughout her life of caring for others.

In America, Bernadette worked tirelessly in several factories, most notably at Continental Can and Thermos. While only being in America for under ten years, they built a new home in Norwich which was centered on family and faith. A devoted Catholic, she lived her beliefs through action, serving as a caretaker not only to her family but to her broader community. She raised her two sons, George and Ricky, and cared for an extended household of relatives, always putting others first and never complaining.

Bernadette is survived by her son George Wezner and his wife Jeanne (Rousseau), and their children Jacqueline (husband Rene Hart), Michael (wife Olga, formerly Zaragoza), and Erica (husband Stephen Tew Jr.); and by her son Ricky Wezner and his wife Kelly (Guntner), and their sons Ricky Jr. and Kyle. She is also survived by her beloved great-grandchildren: Ethan, Michael, Warren, Liliana, and Philip; her brother, Adam Hyreniewicz; and many nieces and nephews.

Known affectionately as "Babcia" to her grandchildren, Bernadette loved bringing people together. She hosted family gatherings with extravagant meals; her cooking and baking skills were extraordinary. She enjoyed dressing up and dancing, and offered gentle advice with warmth and humor.

She was an avid gardener and landscaper that took great pride in her home. Many considered her garden the most immaculate in the neighborhood. Neighbors admired it deeply, and it reflected her patience, care and pride in nurturing growth.

In the 1950s, Bernadette developed a fondness for professional wrestling, attending matches at Ocean Beach with her family to cheer on Ivan Putski. She was known for her quick, dry wit and her ability to deliver sly remarks with a perfectly straight face. Even in her later years, she appreciated an obscene joke, often responding with a subtle smile and knowing eyes that made it clear she understood more than she let on.

Her life was defined by faith, hard work, humor, and devotion to family and community. Bernadette's legacy as a loving Babcia, caretaker and strong woman will endure through all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A calling hour will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, at Sts. Peter & Paul Church, 181 Elizabeth Street, Norwich, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery in Norwich. There will be Celebration of Life beginning at 1:30 p.m. at the church in the Sts. Peter and Paul's parish center.

Woyasz & Son Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.