Bernard W. Odoy, 88, of Ansonia, CT (Oct 21,1936-Feb. 27, 2025)

Bernard W. Odoy, a loving father and grandfather, devoted husband, and cherished member of his community, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on October 21, 1936, to Anna and William Odoy, Bernard grew up in Ansonia, CT where he was raised with his brothers, Edwin and Will, in a home filled with the rich traditions of their Polish heritage.

Bernie was a proud graduate of Ansonia High School where he excelled as a student and athlete. A talented running back, Bernie was co-captain of the 1953 Ansonia High football team and was an equally passionate member of the baseball and basketball teams. His athleticism, competitiveness and leadership on the field were renowned. He briefly considered trying out for a spot in Minor League Baseball but, after serving honorably in the United States Army, ultimately chose to attend college to build a stable future and graduated from the University of Bridgeport.

It was during these formative years that Bernie met the love of his life, Mary, on Chapel Street in New Haven, CT, asking her out for ice cream—an act that would spark a love story lasting nearly 60 years. Bernie and Mary married, bought their first home in Derby, CT and later settled in Monroe, CT where they raised four children: Bernie Jr., Patrick, Ann Marie, and Monica. Bernie was an exceptionally engaged and active father, never missing a sporting event or awards night for his children. His dedication, faithfulness and loyalty as a father were unparalleled, his love for his family knew no bounds.

Bernie’s professional journey was as diverse as his interests. After receiving his degree in accounting he combined his analytical skills with a keen entrepreneurial spirit. After a 5 year stint in the finance department of Frigitronics, a Shelton-based cryosurgical instrument manufacturer, he went on to start a number of small business ventures: EdBerns and the Golden Sleigh retail stores on the Post Road in Milford, General Products, a New Haven-based manufacturing company, and later, a series of laundromats and drycleaning stores in Derby, Naugatuck and Milford. In his retirement, Bernie was an avid investor and would discuss the stock market for hours with anyone that would listen.

In the later years of his life, Bernie and Mary moved to Florida, where they spent 16 years enjoying a slower pace of life. They traveled, played golf, and joined St. Anthony’s of Padua Church in Dade City, where they became part of a close-knit community of friends. Throughout their travels, Bernie and Mary cherished the time spent with their family, both in the United States and in Ireland. They were always up for a road trip stop to spend time with family and friends, creating forever memories. A favorite Polish family tradition was the annual pierogi-making gathering before Christmas, with everyone working together trying to beat last year’s record.

Bernie is now reunited with his beloved wife, Mary, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his brothers Edwin (Alice) Odoy, of Derby, CT and William Odoy, of Ansonia, CT and his children, Bernie (Teresa), Patrick (Hilary), Ann Marie (Julia), and Monica (Marc). Bernie and Mary also treasured their time with grandchildren Lucia, Gina, Marianna, Elisabeth, Kyle, Haylie, Bernard III, Alexa, Connor, Erika, Logan and Liam, great grandchild Eris, their cherished Odoy nieces Alison and Audrey, and all their Hartigan relatives in the U.S. and Ireland. Bernie’s legacy of love, dedication, and hard work will live on through his family, friends, and relatives, and the many lives he touched.

 A Mass of Christian Burial, Meeting Directly at Church, will be celebrated on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 11:00 AM in St. Joseph Church, 32 Jewett Street, Ansonia, CT. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery, 700 Middletown Avenue, North Haven, CT. The Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia, is in care of arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph, 32 Jewett Street, Ansonia, CT 06401. Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com. Rest in peace, Bernie. Your legacy of generosity, innovation, love, and faithful devotion will never be forgotten.