Obituary of Noreen M. Toscano

Noreen Marie Toscano (nee McWilliams), age 81, passed peacefully surrounded by her loved ones on October 1, 2023. Born in Corona, Queens, NY, on May 14, 1942, she was the daughter of the late Virginia and Sylvester McWilliams.

A graduate of The Mary Louis Academy in Jamaica Estates, Queens, Noreen met the love of her life, Ralph Toscano, when she summered on Candlewood Lake with her mother and beloved stepfather Arthur Horncastle. She married Ralph on June 30, 1962, and they raised their family in Danbury and Brookfield, where she was active in her church and community.

Noreen had a quick wit and a direct way with words, which she imparted with her inimitable New York accent. She was especially proud of her New York roots and her Irish heritage, and she was well-known as a creative and accomplished quilter, a ruthless Bridge player, and an avid crafter. She cherished her loving family and her dear, dear friends, who showed her so much affection and compassion over these last months. She will be truly missed.

Noreen is predeceased by her son Michael and her son-in-law Keith VanBezooijen. She is survived by her daughters Susan Barovich and her husband Jeff; Elizabeth VanBezooijen; and Ann Toscano and her husband Hank Rittal, and daughter in law, Jessica Toscano . The true treasures of her life were her grandchildren Erik and Jack VanBezooijen; Lauren Toscano; and Dana Barovich.

Friends and family are invited to gather in celebration of Noreen’s life at a Christian mass on Thursday, October 5, at 11 am, at Our Lady of the Lakes Church, 3 Old Town Park Road, New Milford, CT. Burial will be private at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org, or PO Box 1000, Department 142, Memphis, TN 38148.