Mary Jo Wanciak, 81, entered into rest on August 29, 2017, at Bridgeport Hospital. She was the beloved wife of the late Richard Wanciak.
Mary Jo was born in Derby on September 8, 1935, daughter of the late Charles and Charlotte Mueller Woodin and lived most of her life in Ansonia. She was a graduate of Ansonia High School and Quinnipiac University. She was employed as a medical secretary and later as an administrative assistant with the Town of Woodbridge until her retirement. She was a longtime parishioner of the Church of the Assumption in Ansonia. Mary Jo, who was affectionately known as “MJ” to most or “Grammy Sunshine” to her grandchildren, was an avid reader who loved life, laughter, nature and animals. She was happiest when spending time with her children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed sitting outside in her backyard and looked forward to visits with family and friends.
She is survived by her loving, devoted daughter, Kristen Cosciello and her partner Mark Rinaldi of Seymour, sons, Clay Winters and his wife Karen of Shelton, Mark Winters and his wife Annette of Ansonia and Richard Craig Wanciak of Bristol, a brother, Charles “Red” Woodin of Seymour, dear friends, Patty Honas and Amanda Matejek of Ansonia, 12 cherished grandchildren, a great-grandchild and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a sister, Elizabeth Baldwin.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend her funeral on Saturday September 9, 2017, at 11:30 am (Please Meet Directly) at the Church of the Assumption, 61 North Cliff Street in Ansonia for a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family. In accordance with Mary Jo’s wishes, there will be no visiting hours.
Memorial contributions in Mary Jo’s memory are suggested to the Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter, 749 East Main St., Branford, CT 06405 or Milford Animal Control, 664 East Broadway, Milford, CT 06460.
The SPINELLI-RICCIUTI/BEDNAR-OSIECKI FUNERAL HOME in Ansonia has been privileged with the arrangements. To send an act of sympathy, please visit www.spinelliricciutifh.com.
