Raymond J. "Poppy" "Professor" Hoesten, Sr, 74, of Sandy Hook, died December 14, at Danbury Hospital.sandyhookfire.com.

His wife of 50 years, Patricia (Vacchio) Hoesten; his children and their spouses, Kelly and Shawn Hochstetler, Raymond Jr and Tara Hoesten, and Brian and Donna Hoesten; his grandchildren, Mia, Ryan, Trevor, Jack, and Emma; his siblings, Richard, James, Thomas, Gayle, Patti, and Marion; sister-in-law, Gabrielle; brother-in-law, John; and a devoted best friend survive him.

A muneral Mass will take place at St Rose of Lima, 46 Church Hill Road, Newtown, on Saturday, January 20, at 10:30 am, with Monsignor Robert Weiss officiating. A reception will follow at Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire & Rescue, 18-20 Riverside Road, Sandy Hook.

Donations in honor of Raymond J. Hoesten can be made to Sandy Hook Fire & Rescue, PO Box 783, Sandy Hook CT 06482 or by visiting

A memorial bench has been donated by family and friends in honor of Mr Hoesten at Dunkin' Donuts in Newtown. It was a fond and frequented place for him to spend his time. Whether reading the newspaper, watching TV, or awakening from a nap; he greeted a friend or stranger with a warm smile, an unforgettable story, and often a cup of coffee, his treat. His loved ones say, "This bench is to provide a special welcome at the door, as it inspires kindness in remembrance, reflection, and respect for our dearly loved Raymond."

Funeral arrangements are by the Jowdy-Kane Funeral Home, Danbury.