Vito Zaffarana

Vito Zaffarana, 95, of New Britain, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on February 7, 2026. He was the loving husband of Vincenzina “Zina” (Cusmano) Zaffarana for 61 years and was the son of the late Gaetano and Paolina (Russo) Zaffarana. Born in Buccheri (Sicily), Italy, he immigrated to the United States in 1970 and lived in New Britain for 56 years.

He was employed by various manufacturing companies over his lifetime. He found happiness in the simple pleasures of life: tending to his tomato garden, working on projects around his home, and most importantly, spending time with his family. Sundays, in particular, were always special times to gather and share a meal with his family.

Vito will lovingly be remembered by his wife; his children and their spouses, Lillian Philippon and son-in-law William Philippon of Berlin, and Danielle Poulin and son-in-law Craig Poulin of East Berlin. Vito was also the proud and doting Nonno to his cherished grandchildren, Gregory and Zachary Philippon and Stefanie Poulin. He is also survived by his beloved niece and nephews, Victoria and Richard Pavasaris and Joseph Cataldo, and their families, as well as extended family in Italy and Australia. He was predeceased by his sister, Lucia Cataldo, and his brother, Gaetano Zaffarana.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home, 411 So. Main St., New Britain, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1755 Stanley St., New Britain. Entombment will follow at St. Mary Cemetery, 1141 Stanley St., New Britain. Friends and family are invited to attend a period of visitation on Thursday from 5–7 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association in memory of Vito.