Obituary of Joseph H. Bloemen Jr.

Joseph Henry Bloemen, Jr., age 84, beloved husband of Joan L. Super Bloemen, of Shelton, passed away on January 1, 2024, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family. Born in Bridgeport on May 27, 1939, he was the son of the late Joseph H. and Marie DeKerf Bloemen. Mr. Bloemen was raised in Stratford and was a 1958 graduate of Stratford High School. He worked as a substation electrician for the United Illuminating Co. for over 35 years until his retirement in 1994.

Mr. Bloemen was a long-time member of the Huntington Congregational Church. Together with his wife, he actively volunteered for TEAM, Inc., and on the 1995 Host Town Committee of the Special Olympics, providing accommodations, meals, entertainment, and transportation for the athletes of Iceland and their families. The Bloemens also volunteered at the Lakota Indian Reservation in South Dakota, helping tribal members lead happier, healthier lives within the context of their history and culture. He was an active 13-year member and EMT of the Echo Hose Ambulance Corps.

An early retirement at age 55 allowed Mr. Bloemen to enjoy life, travel the world, and engage in various pursuits and activities. He enjoyed driving his pride and joy, a red 1960 Triumph TR3, in many car shows, cruises, and parades. He will be long remembered for his service to his community and his special love for his family.

In addition to his spouse of 63 years, Mr. Bloemen is survived by his devoted daughters, Deborah (Raymond) Oppel of Shelton, Karin Hongo of Derby, and Lori (Bob Bennard) Wannagot of Milford; cherished grandchildren, Ryan (Olivia) Oppel of MA, Alexander (Lauren) Oppel of Branford, Quinton Hongo of Shelton, Hailey Hongo (fiancé Jeff Gould) of NH, Amanda Wannagot (fiancé Wayne Caciopoli) of NC, and Joseph Wannagot of Stratford; great-granddaughters, Avery and Sloan Oppel of MA; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his son-in-law, James Wannagot.

Family and friends may call on Friday, January 5, 2024, from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at the Huntington Congregational Church, 19 Church Street, Huntington. Funeral services will take place at 11:00 AM. Interment will directly follow at Huntington Lawn Cemetery, Lane Street, Shelton. Memorial contributions may be made to the Huntington Congregational Church or to Shriners Hospital for Children, P.O. Box 1525, Ranson, WV 25438, https://donate.lovetotherescue.org/. The Wakelee Memorial Funeral Home, 167 Wakelee Avenue, Ansonia, is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.wakeleememorial.com.