Stephen P. Fredericksen, 59, passed away unexpectedly at Saint Mary’s Hospital on April 14, 2018, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family after a brief illness. He was the devoted husband of Catherine (Collett) Fredericksen.
Stephen was born May 1, 1958 in New Haven, the son of the late Max and Florinda (Forcinelli) Fredericksen. He graduated from Hamden High School and was an insurance agent for 35 years; most recently with the Knights of Columbus.
Stephen’s true passion was volunteering in the music and theater departments of several local school systems. He relished the opportunity to conduct, direct, play bass and guide students in their musical endeavors. Known as “The String Doctor,” Stephen enjoyed repairing and restoring string instruments.
He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Wolcott Council No. 35 Armor DEI Assembly, and a member of the Saint Mary Council No. 42 of Our Lady of Lebanon, and was a Fourth Degree Knight.
Stephen had held many roles within the Knights of Columbus, including district deputy and member of the state membership team; he served on the master’s staff as the director of fraternal remembrances and the Knight’s First Degree and Fourth Degree exemplification teams, to mention a few.
When Stephen wasn’t busy volunteering with the Knights of Columbus, schools or church, he could be found spending time with his adored grandchildren. Stephen was an active parishioner of St. Maron’s Church, an avid Seattle Seahawks fan, and enjoyed playing golf.
Besides his wife Catherine of 38 years, Stephen is survived by his children, Brian Fredericksen of Waterbury, Robert Fredericksen and his wife Tracie, of Bristol, Andrew Fredericksen of Middletown, Margaret Battisti and her husband Brian, of Naugatuck, and Kari Fredericksen and her partner, Paul Talbot, of Michigan.
In addition, he leaves his brother, William Fredericksen and his wife Lesliem of New Britain; his sister, Brenda Cantafio of Hamden; 12 grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his son, Shaun Fredericksen and sister, Lisa Ferrer.
Funeral services for Mr. Fredericksen was held on Saturday, April 21,when a Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at St. Maron’s Church.
To honor Stephen’s charitable nature, his family would like to request that, in lieu of flowers, a donation in his name be made to a charity of your choosing.
