Stefan Casimir Bulgajewski
Stefan "Steve" Casimir Bulgajewski, 94, of Enfield, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on December 22, 2025. He was born on December 1, 1931, in Poroda, Poland. Following the conclusion of World War II, Steve immigrated to America with his parents and six siblings after the labor camp in which his family had been imprisoned was liberated by Allied forces.
Steve began his working life on potato farms in Connecticut and later worked at the Bigelow Textile Mill until its closing. He then joined C.H. Dexter Paper Mill, where he dedicated 36 years of service before retiring.
Steve was known for his strong work ethic and deep love of family. He was always "doing something." Despite long hours at work, he took great pride in maintaining his home and yard with meticulous care. Family time was always a priority, and he cherished yearly vacations with his immediate and extended family. He especially enjoyed day trips to the beach, the lake, or simply going for a drive together.
Extended family was equally important to Steve. His brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews were a constant and meaningful part of his life. After retirement, he stayed busy helping family with painting and various projects, always ready to lend a hand. He remained very active and could often be seen taking daily walks around the neighborhood.
Steve also had a passion for gardening and was especially famous for his tomatoes, which he grew with great pride. He planted a vegetable garden every year until just a few years ago and generously shared his harvest with family and friends. He also enjoyed preserving his vegetables, making homemade pickles and sauerkraut.
In retirement, Steve and his wife, Louise, enjoyed taking day trips throughout New England. Summers often found them driving along the Rhode Island coast, while fall brought scenic trips up Route 5 into Vermont, visiting farm stands and apple orchards.
Fishing was another lifelong joy. Steve spent countless hours fishing with his sons, his brother, and his nephews, and grandchildren, whether on vacations or simple day trips.
Steve was immensely proud of his family and was a wonderful grandfather who truly cherished his seven grandchildren. One of their fondest memories was his joy in spoiling them with chocolates from the large Costco bag he always kept on hand. His devotion to family, strong work ethic, and enduring values will be deeply missed by all who were privileged to know him.
Steve was predeceased by his parents, Pawlina (Pirzecki) Bulgajewski and Adam Bulgajewski; his sisters, Edwina Markunas and her husband Raymond, Helen Smolen and her husband John, and Janina Kucner and her husband Leo; and his brothers, William Bulgajewski and Theodore Bulgajewski.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Louise Bulgajewski; his daughter, Theresa Lesco, and her husband Michael Lesco, and their sons Michael, Stefan, and Thomas Lesco; his son, Michael Bulgajewski, and his sons Nathaniel and Zachariah Bulgajewski; his son, Thomas Bulgajewski, and his wife Amy, and their daughters Madison and Mia Bulgajewski; his brother, Charles Bulgajewski, and his wife Cecelia; his sister-in-law, Irene Bulgajewski; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
A funeral home service will take place on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels, 61 South Road, Enfield, CT. Family and friends are invited to attend visitation immediately following the service from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at a later date. For online expressions of sympathy, please visit
www.leetestevens.com.
Leete-Stevens Family Funeral Homes & Crematory
Published by Journal Inquirer on Dec. 31, 2025.