Obituary of William A. Watcke

William "Woz" Watcke, 75, of Shelton, CT, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 16, 2025 with his daughter by his side at Yale New Haven Hospital. Born on February 24, 1950, in Bridgeport, he grew up in Trumbull before settling in Stratford and Shelton, where he built a life filled with hard work, humor, and deep friendships.

A skilled and dedicated carpenter, Woz took great pride in his craft. More than just a profession, his work was a way to connect with people, forming lasting relationships with clients who quickly became friends. His warmth, generosity, and ability to turn a project into a partnership made him a cherished figure in the community.

Beyond his work, Woz had a passion for music, playing the drums in a band and finding joy in the rhythm of life. He was happiest surrounded by friends, sharing a meal, watching football, and making everyone around him laugh. His quick wit and playful spirit made him the kind of person people naturally gravitated toward—a true jokester who always found a way to turn life's challenges into opportunities for joy. When we think of Woz we remember his love of fishing, Prime restaurant, Pepe's Pizza, dogs and going to get ice cream.

Woz was also a man of resilience. As a heart transplant recipient, he became an active member of the Yale transplant support group, where he offered encouragement, friendship, and strength to others navigating similar journeys. His ability to uplift those around him, even in the face of hardship, was one of his greatest gifts.

He is survived by his daughter, Stephanie Deeb and her husband Bassell and his beloved grandchildren, Olivia (6) and Harrison (4), who were his pride and joy. He also leaves behind his brother, Alan Watcke, his wife Deborah and his nieces Jennifer, Dawn and Alexis, their spouses and their kids along with many dear friends. He was predeceased by his son, Brian Watcke, and his parents, Albert and Mildred (Simna) Watcke.

Woz lived a life full of laughter, love, and resilience. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by those fortunate enough to have known him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. directly in St. Lawrence Church, 505 Shelton Ave., Shelton. Interment will follow in Huntington Lawn Cemetery East, Shelton. Relatives and friends may greet the family on Tuesday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Rd., Trumbull. To leave an online condolence, please visit us at www.abriola.com.