JoAnn Budzinski

JoAnn Budzinski, age 83, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on November 4, 2026 at her home, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born on December 21, 1942 in New Britain, CT and was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Mary Budzinski. A graduate of Mary Immaculate Academy, JoAnn lived in both New Britain and Kensington. She was employed for many years by the New Britain Herald and cherished her role as the former Director of the Berlin Senior Center.

JoAnn is survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Evelyn and William Orlowsky of Rocky Hill, CT and her nieces and their spouses, Mary and Jay Yuskis of Ponte Vedra, FL and Lynne and Kevin Finn of Farmington, CT. Fondly called “Auntie” by those who knew her, she loved spending time and making special memories with her beloved grandnieces and grandnephew, Jillian, Lauren, and Megan Yuskis and Abby and Tyler Finn.

JoAnn always admired the beauty in nature, enjoyed travel to locations all around the United States, and sharing in the celebratory events of her grandnieces and grandnephew. She spoiled loved ones with gifts for all occasions, including bringing “it’s-not-your-birthday” gifts to birthday parties. She especially loved the special bond she had with her Yorkshire Terriers, Oliver and Sam.

In accordance with her wishes, JoAnn was cremated and no formal visitation or funeral services were held. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. “Auntie” will be forever loved, forever in our hearts, and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, donations in JoAnn’s memory may be made to the Berlin Senior Center, 33 Colonial Drive, Berlin, CT 06037 or to Berlin Animal Control, 600 Christian Lane, Berlin, CT 06037.