Edward T. Otremba Sr.

Edward T. Otremba, Sr.
On Monday, August 25, 2025, the world lost a great man: Edward T. Otremba, Sr., who died peacefully at home, in North Haven, at the amazing age of 105. A devoted and loving husband, son-in-law, father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and WWII veteran, Ed was quick to sing or whistle a melody and share a memory of days gone by, after which he would often close his eyes, smile, shake his head, and sigh in contentment. Gentle, kind, and sharp as a tack until his final moments, his long and wonderful life brimmed with music, love, and family. His passing is bittersweet and deeply felt by all who were fortunate enough to have known him.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Edward was a son of the late Louis and Josephine Otremba. He often spoke fondly of his parents and attending baseball games at Ebbets Field with his dad, where he saw the "Great Bambino," Babe Ruth. One of the last remaining Americans alive from what is commonly referred to as the "Greatest Generation," Ed was drafted into the U.S. Army a few months before his 22nd birthday and sailed to Europe on the Queen Mary alongside members of Glenn Miller's orchestra. Ed was an excellent typist and first served in the office of General DeWitt's Western Defense Command and was then assigned to the 9th Army Division as one of General Simpson's personal team. Ed had the honor of meeting and assisting the teams of some of our country's most influential generals, including Dwight D. Eisenhower and George S. Patton.
After the war, Ed met and married Helen J. Nosek. Their 70-year marriage, until her passing in 2018, was a testament to love and partnership. They began life together in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, before relocating to Bridgeport, Connecticut, where they raised their four children and lived happily for many years. Being educated at the renowned Brooklyn Technical High School, Ed's talents as a skilled draftsman led him to Sikorsky Aircraft, where he worked under founder Igor Sikorsky, then eventually became involved in local politics. He was elected to four terms as Bridgeport's Republican Registrar of Voters and served in that position for 16 years until his retirement in 1986. Ed was very proud of his accomplishments as Registrar. Under his direction, the office underwent significant improvements, including the computerization of voter records and streamlining of voter registration and election processes. He also served as the President of Registrars of Voters Association of Connecticut (ROVAC) and was a lifetime member of the American Legion.
Ed was well-known and well-liked in his neighborhood and throughout Bridgeport. He loved crossword puzzles, old movies, cold beer, taking long "power walks," and good Polish food. He played harmonica, sang tenor in barbershop quartets, served as an usher every Sunday at Saint Andrew Church, and was always humming or whistling a tune. One of his favorite songs offered this sage advice: "Enjoy yourself, while you're still in the pink // The years go by, as quickly as you wink // Enjoy yourself, enjoy yourself, it's later than you think."
Ed also liked to remind his family to "Love each other," which we will continue to do. Edward was predeceased by his loving wife, Helen; son-in-law, William Kurzbacher, Jr.; grandson, William Kurzbacher, III; siblings, Regina, Frances, and Alfred. He is survived by his children, Edward T. Otremba, Jr., Christine Ben and her husband, George, Mary Ellen Graham and her husband, Ron Rivard, and Cathy DellaValle and her husband, Michael; grandchildren, Elizabeth and Margaret Graham (Jonathan Calka), Michael Ben and Kristen Clancy (Gavin), Michael (Kaitlyn), Matthew, and Joseph DellaValle, and Kallian Socci (Adam), Marley Kelly (John), and Elizabeth Rivard; great-grandchildren, Walton Graham-Chavez, Zack Socci, Jack Kelly VI, Dmitri and Henrik Ben, and Finn Clancy; and many loving nieces and nephews.
The family would also like to thank the entire staff of the Landing of North Haven and all the wonderful caregivers and support people who provided their compassion, companionship, and assistance throughout the years.
Beecher & Bennett Funeral Home, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden, will be in care of private services. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. To leave a condolence for the family, please see obituary at www.beecherandbennett.com .