Obituary of Rachel M. Tanski

Rachel Mary (D’Angelico) Tanski, age 91, of Trumbull, CT passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 after leading a full and beautiful life. Born and raised in Bridgeport, CT, she was the daughter of the late John D’Angelico and Gabriella (D’Angelis) D’Angelico.

Rachel grew up on Catherine Street in Bridgeport and attended Central High School. She married the love of her life, William (Bill) W. Tanski and raised their children Debbie, Billy, and Wendy in Trumbull.  Rachel was a homemaker before working at Grand Union grocery store for over 20 years, though her true career was matriarch of her large, extended family.

Famous for her Sunday dinners, 4th of July parties and frozen lasagnas, Rachel ensured her household was a sanctuary for anyone needing goodness - whether it was in the form of a cup of coffee, cake, or company. Her home filled with so many friends and family through the years, her children answered the phone, “Tanski’s Holiday Inn.” Her coffee pot was always on, and her door was always open. She loved entertaining and hosting memorable gatherings and Christmases. Rachel was a talented bowler and never missed a UConn basketball game. A social butterfly, she enjoyed lunches with bowling friends, ceramics, casino trips, visiting her family in Florida and shopping for her grandkids.

Rachel, or affectionately called "Aunt Rae", will be remembered by those for her heart of gold. She had a quick wit, warm smile, generous spirit, and built a beautiful life for her family. Opinionated, resilient, devoted, and proud, nothing made her happier than spending time with family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and aunt, and was a godmother to many. 

Rachel is survived by her beloved daughters Deborah Pedersen of West Haven, CT and Wendy (Joseph) Suarez of Coral Springs, FL, her grandchildren Ashley (Brian) Browning, William Pedersen, and Veronica, Justin, and Jackson Suarez. A proud grandmother and even prouder “Noni”, her memory will live on in her great-grandchildren Caleb and Cameron Browning, Rowan and Meadow Pedersen, and Raelynn and Valor Lingle. She is predeceased by her husband Bill, son William Tanski, son-in-law Dave Pedersen, sister Ruth (D'Angelico) Dowin and brother Michael H. D'Angelico. 

She leaves behind a large extended family who were gifted with her love.

Calling hours are Friday, May 8th from 4-7pm at Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Road, Trumbull. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 9th at 10am in St. Catherine of Siena Church, 200 Shelton Rd., Trumbull. Interment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Trumbull. To leave an online condolence, visit www.abriola.com