Obituary of Irene Dorothy Rotella

Danbury- Mrs. Irene Dorothy (Balash) Rotella, age 86, passed away peacefully on Saturday October 22, 2022 at Hancock Hall Nursing Home surrounded by her loving family. She was the widow of Louis Rotella, who always referred to her as his bride. Both Louis and Irene were lifelong residents of Danbury. Mrs. Irene Balash Rotella was born May 4, 1936 the daughter of the late John and Marie Surovy Balash. She was raised Lutheran, however following her husband's passing Irene studied Catholicism and became a very devout confirmed Catholic. 

 Irene worked for many years at Union Savings Bank, she began as a teller and worked her way up becoming an administrative assistant. Prior to her years at the bank, she worked as a media resource aide at New Fairfield High School. After her retirement she spent her time volunteering at Danbury Hospital in the Gift shop, dedicated many hours to St. Joseph’s Church, worked every election at the voting booths, and was very active in the Danbury Garden Club. She took it upon herself to provide transportation for seniors to medical appointments, grocery shopping and other non emergent needs. She was only a phone call away for anyone who needed her.

It was her family that held her heart and soul. Mrs. Rotella is survived by her three children: Perry Rotella of New York City, Anna Marie Dufresne of Brookfield and Irene Roth and her husband Kevin of Danbury. Her seven grandchildren: Daniel Roth LCDR, Michael Rotella and his wife Katie, Madeline Rotella Eely and her husband Kyle, Stephanie Dufresne, Mark Dufresne, Jake Rotella and Evan Rotella. And one Great Grandchild Adrienne Eely. She was predeceased by her siblings: John “Sonny” Balash, Marie “Marika” Caliendo, Clarence “Bebe” Balash and Ann “Anca” Bagley.

Beyond her immediate family, Irene was everyone's beloved mother/grandmother. Endless sports events, proms, celebrations, dinners, dance recitals, holidays, plays, graduations, appointments, pool parties, concerts, etc. She rarely missed an event. Her presence was pure joy, love, acceptance, grace and a true passion for life.

Mrs. Rotella’s family will receive relatives and friends on Wednesday October 26, 2022 from 6-8pm at Cornell Memorial Home 247 White Street, Danbury. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday October 27, 2022 at 10am at St Joseph's Roman Catholic Church Danbury. Burial will be at St. Peter's Cemetery in Danbury. In lieu of flowers Memorial contributions may be made to Hancock Hall Recreation Fund. 31 Staples Street Danbury Ct. The family would like to acknowledge the exceptional devoted and loving care that our mother received daily from all staff. We are deeply grateful for each staff member for the respect and care given to our dear mother.