Maria Gloria Caldaro Elker passed away on January 21, 2026, after a long battle with dementia. She was 80 years old.
Born in Vicenza, Italy, Gloria immigrated to the United States in 1960 and spent nearly her entire life in the New Haven area. Resilient, resourceful, and incredibly hardworking, Gloria was an amazing cook who never forgot her Italian roots. She had a genuine love for people and was always eager to help those in need. She was known for her strong beliefs and passionate expression of faith. Central to her life was her love for Jesus Christ and her enthusiasm for sharing God’s Word.
She is survived by her devoted and loving husband of 40 years, Frederick Elker of Ansonia; her sons, Rich Benevento (Anne) of Atlanta and Ray Bunton (Mary) of Milford; her daughter, Lisa Pasnault (Edward) of Seymour; her grandchildren, Stacey, Kara, Grey, Emma, Jackson, Ray, and RJ; three great-grandchildren Josiah, Lily and Amina; sisters Maria Testa (Joseph) of SC, Lucia Spear (Michael) of Deep River, Wendy Malazzi of FL and Wanda Malazzi of NC; and generations of extensive family in Vicenza. She is predeceased by her mother, Theresa Caldaro Malazzi, and brother Frank Malazzi.
The family is deeply grateful to the caregivers of Visiting Angels of Woodbridge, especially Lanora and Raquel, for their patience, compassion, and loving care shown to Gloria. The family also extends sincere thanks to Griffin Hospital and the hospice nurses for their dedicated care and support.
A Celebration of Gloria’s Life will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026, starting at 10 a.m. at Reclaim Christian Church, 11 High Acres Rd., Ansonia, CT 06401. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Operation Christmas Child or Samaritan’s Purse. The Ralph E. Hull Funeral Home, 161 W. Church St. Seymour, CT 06483 has been entrusted with her arrangements.