With broken hearts, the family of Edward A. Onofreo, 70, of Wolcott, announce that he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Monday, March 9, at St. Mary’s Hospital under the compassionate care of VITAS Hospice. He was the beloved husband of Karen (Parks) Onofreo, with whom he shared 40 wonderful years of marriage.

Ed was born in Waterbury on August 16, during the historic Flood of 1955, the son of the late Edward and Josephine (Rubino) Onofreo. He was a graduate of Wilby High School, Class of 1975. Ed dedicated more than 30 years of service to the University of Connecticut Waterbury campus, where he worked until his retirement. In 1985, Ed married the love of his life, Karen, and together they built a wonderful life in Wolcott, where they lived for the past 40 years surrounded by family and friends. In addition to his wife Karen, Ed leaves behind his daughters, Erica Onofreo and her partner Jaylen Jones, and Kristen Onofreo and her fiancée Gavin Foley; his cherished grandson, Jayden Jones; his sisters, Donna McCulloch and Doreen Lawson and her partner Bill Murphy; his brother, Paul Onofreo and his wife Linda; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Ed was predeceased by his sister, Deborah Ciccio.

Ed had many passions that brought him joy throughout his life. He loved golfing at Farmingbury Hills Golf Course and was proud to be the Thursday Early League Champion in both 2022 and 2023 alongside his partner, Tony Cerullo. A devoted sports fan, Ed cheered faithfully for the Dallas Cowboys and both the men’s and women’s UConn basketball teams. At home, he took great pride in caring for his yard and swimming pool, always keeping everything just right. He also cherished family vacations to the beaches of Rhode Island. Above all else, Ed loved his family. Whether it was sharing a laugh, watching a game, or simply spending time together, those moments meant the most to him. His grandson Jayden held a special place in his heart and brought him endless happiness. Being “Papa” to Jayden was one of the greatest joys of his life, and the time they spent together meant the world to him.

Ed will be remembered for his kindness, his easygoing spirit, and his unwavering devotion to his family. To his daughters, he was the true definition of a loving father—always there for them, day or night, no matter what. His love, guidance, and steady presence will be deeply missed, but the memories he created will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Eddie’s life on Saturday March 14th at Woodtick Memorial 420 Woodtick Rd in Wolcott with calling hours from 11 AM to 1 PM followed by a memorial service beginning at 1 PM. Woodtick Memorial is honored to serve the Onofreo family and you may visit www.woodtickmemorial.com for online condolences and flower arrangements.