In 2000, Newtown Lost Many

Who Left Their Mark

During the past year, Newtown lost many residents who, while they were with us, made their marks in the community.

In January, 28-year-old Mark Rebong died after being shot while traveling along Interstate 84 in Danbury.

Nelson Curtis, 86, a longtime owner of Curtis Packaging, died in February.

In March, former civic leader John W. Deegan died at age 81. Anthony Crisci, 70, the retired owner of the Newtown Car Care Center, also died in March.

Also in March, Joseph Cavanaugh, 75, a charter member of the United Company of Botsford Volunteer Fire Company died. Longtime Newtown resident/civic leader Donald H. Smith, 76, died in March, as did 37-year-old softball standout Andrew J. Bilotto.

In April, Dr John W. Rhinehart, 69, a 42-year resident and holistic medicine pioneer died.

Clare York, 81, died in May. She was a 29-year Newtown resident and instrumental in initiating home health care through the Visiting Nurse Association.

Jonathan R. Ullo, 17, a Newtown High School student, died in June.

Entertainer/hostess Judy Fellows, 72, passed away in August, as did Kenneth N. Frederickson, 47, a 1970 NHS graduate and longtime Coastguardsman.

In September, Mary M. Holian, 83, a longtime resident/teacher and volunteer, died. Stan C. Karpacz, 70, a civic leader and former Legislative Council member, also died in September.

October saw the passing of NHS student/drum major/swimmer Gregory Chion, 17, and former postmaster Albert H. Nichols.

Pilot William Hard, 71, died in November as did longtime Newtown resident/volunteer Marguerite Osterman, 69.

December saw the passing of Sarah Mannix, a lifelong Newtown resident/civic leader.