Joseph Stanley “Butchie” Maler Jr., age 83, a lifelong Valley resident, entered eternal rest on October 30, 2025, at the West Haven VA Medical Center.
Born in Derby on September 21, 1942, he was the son of the late Joseph S. Maler Sr. and Mary (Dorso) Maler. Joseph was a proud graduate of Shelton High School Class of 1960. Shortly after graduation, he honorably served his country in the United States Navy. A talented painter, he spent most of his career perfecting his craft before later joining Honey Cell in Shelton, where he was employed until his retirement. Joe was a longtime member of both the Slovak and Lemko clubs where he enjoyed spending time with friends, playing games and sharing stories. He had many passions, fishing, collecting sports cards, arrowheads, coins, and stamps. Joe was also an avid fan of the New York Yankees, UCONN Huskies, and the New York Giants.
Joe leaves to cherish his memory, his six children, Pamela Kichar (Michael) of Derby, Patricia Melson of Ansonia, Tamara Maler, Joseph Maler III (Tricia) of Derby, Jacqueline Adams of MA, and Jolene Landino (Joseph) of North Haven, thirteen grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, siblings, Robert Maler (Sharon), Barbara Scarduzio, Maryann Miskowicz (Edward), and Gloria Eye (Gary) along with his longtime companion, Nancy Smith of Ansonia. He was predeceased by his sister, Marilyn Maler, brother, Frederick Maler, former wife Pamela Flaherty and longtime companion, Rose Hansen.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, doctors, and staff at the Veterans Hospital in West Haven for their compassionate care and dedication to Joe.
Relatives and friends are invited to greet the family and pay their respects on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 9:00-10:30 am in the chapel of SPINELLI-RICCIUTI FUNERAL HOME, 62 Beaver Street in Ansonia. At 10:30 am, a funeral service and celebration of Joe’s life will take place with Reverend Jeffrey Gubbiotti officiating. Inurnment with United States Navy military honors will immediately follow in St. Michael’s Cemetery in Ansonia. To sign Joe’s guestbook or share a memory, please visit, www.spinelliricciutifh.com.