Obituary of Ernest C. Trefz

Ernest C. Trefz, age 84, beloved husband of Joan Frisk Trefz, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 25, 2017 with his loving family by his side. Born in New Haven on December 19, 1932, he was a son of the late Christian and Katherine Pfister Trefz. A U.S. Army veteran, he was the CEO of Trefz Corporation. Ernest was a noted businessman and philanthropist. He was a member of the University of Bridgeport Board of Trustees for over 30 years; he was very proud to always give back to the community and the university, where there is a School of Business named after him. He supported many foundations and charities throughout his career. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and traveling the world. But above all of his accomplishments and roles in life, none was greater than that of husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. His greatest moments were found in the time he spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He always put his responsibilities first, taught his family the value of a strong work ethic and hard work and put a special emphasis on the value of a good education and having honest respect for and appreciation of other people. His love and memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him. In addition to his beloved wife of 59 years, Joan, survivors include three loving children, Linda Trefz, Chris Trefz and his wife Trish and Paul Trefz and his fiancé Susana Silva, eight cherished grandchildren, Theresa, Alex, Kevin, Christian Jr., Kendal, Josie, Gretchen and Wyatt, three adored great grandchildren, Cal, Leila and Scarlet; a brother, Christian J. Trefz and his wife Eva, a niece and nephew, Tara Locke and Jimmy Trefz. He also leaves to cherish his memory many dear friends and colleagues whose lives he has touched throughout his career. Funeral services will take place on Wednesday, March 1, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. directly in Trumbull Congregational Church, 3115 Reservoir Ave., Trumbull. Interment with military honors will follow in the Mountain Grove Cemetery, Bridgeport. Relatives and friends may greet the family on Tuesday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at The Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Road, Trumbull. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Ronald McDonald House of New Haven, 501 George St., New Haven, CT 06511 or The Ronald McDonald House of Greater Hudson Valley, 80 Woods Red, Valhalla, NY 10595.