John M.          Aurelia, Sr

John M. Aurelia, Sr, 77, a Newtown resident for more than 53 years, died peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones, November 9, after a brave fight against pancreatic cancer. He was born in Stratford to Alice and James Aurelia.

Mr Aurelia graduated from Stratford High in 1953, where he played guard on its football team. Active in the radio club and film club, he was voted most cheerful by his classmates.

He served his country in the Army National Guard and was honorably discharged in 1958.  He retired after working for IBM for more than 41 years as a customer service engineer.

He was very active in community service to Newtown and was elected for two terms to the Legislative Council, and was a member of the Commission on Aging for five years. A strong advocate for our senior residents, Mr Aurelia’s goal was to build a new Senior Center for the elderly in Newtown.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Karin, of 48 years; son John, Jr; daughters Debbie, Wendy, and Susan; son-in-law Brendan; grandsons Vincent, Ian, Michael, Daniel; granddaughter Sophia; and great-granddaughter Emma.

Interment in Resurrection Cemetery will be private.

Please consider making a donation in his honor to Newtown Senior Center Gift Fund, 14 Riverside Road, Sandy Hook, CT 06482.

The Newtown Bee      November 16, 2012