Steve Witter

Stephen A. Witter, Jr. of Middletown, formerly of Branford, died Sunday January 25, 2026, at Middlesex Hospital.

Stephen (Sonny) was born in New Haven, the only son of the late Stephen A. Witter, Sr and Rose Witter. He is survived by his children, Shaun (Leslie), Karl and Suzanne Witter, his sister Lori French Mullen, his grandchildren, David (Dana), Scott, Chelsea Witter, and Liz Shumbo in addition to his great-granddaughter Mara Witter. Along with many nieces and nephews. Stephen was preceded in death by his sisters, Elizabeth Jordan, Robin M. Witter, and Gayle Jones.

In addition to family, he leaves behind special friends. His former partner, Elaine Gallant of Stratford, whom he shared the last 15 years of his life. He also leaves Darlene and Shirley Scinto who've been great and fun companions for over the past 15 years. His beloved dog, Elliott, was predeceased and is very much missed and was years of constant entertainment.

He served in the U. S. Navy during the Korean War on the Aircraft Carrier the USS Bon Homme Richard. Affectionally known by those who served as the Bonney Dick. After his honorable discharge in 1954 he worked for Echlin/Dana Corp in Branford as a manufacturing design engineer for over 30 years.

Stephen enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life. There wasn't anything he couldn't do! He was into conservation and organic living in the early 70's where he started a small hobby farm. The animals included rabbits, ducks, chickens and chinchillas. He composted before it was popular and even designed, created and enrolled 2 vehicles in Mt. Washington Alternate Vehicle Regatta. Stephen loved everything about the ocean. Throughout his life he purchased several boats which he restored. He bestowed his love of the ocean onto his children and taught them to fish and sail. He restored a 1933 Model A car, joined the Model A club and was known for his manifold pot roast. He was a prankster and a jokester. He was known for his colorful outfits, especially at work.

In lieu of flowers please consider a tax deduction contribution to either of the following charities.

The Animal Haven

The Animal Haven is a 501(c)(3) no-kill animal shelter located in North Haven, CT. A charitable organization whose mission since 1948 has been to provide humane refuge for homeless, abandoned, or surrendered cats and dogs, while striving to find them loving, permanent homes.

Website: https://theanimalhavenct.org

The Animal Haven, Inc.

89 Mill Rd, North Haven, CT 06473

(203) 239-2641

Email: theanimalhavenstaff@gmail.com

The Wounded Warrier Project

Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) 501(c)(3). The WWP Federal I.D. number for donations is #20-2370934. For information on the tremendous impact WWP is having on those we serve, please visit Website: http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/mission/how-we-serve.

• Donate by Phone: 855.448.3997

Please send your donation inquiry or tax related questions to:

email: donorcare@woundedwarriorproject.org

Or call 877.TEAM.WWP (832.6997)

Funeral arrangements:

Visitation is scheduled at W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main Street, Branford on Sunday March 8, 2026. 10:00 AM -12:00 PM.

Casual attire is requested. Stephen wasn't much for suits. He was known for his original vibrant style which is why we are encouraging visitors to dress in such to honor his memory.