Obituary of Elizabeth "Betty" Pusateri

Elizabeth "Betty" Pusateri, 94, of Bridgeport, formerly of Fairfield and widow of the late John R. Pusateri, passed away on Saturday, April 12, 2025.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, John and Clare Pusateri of Longs, SC; her son, Daniel Pusateri, and his significant other, Mary Elizabeth Bakunin, of Stamford, CT; her daughter, Susan Pusateri, and her significant other, Anthony Capua, of Milford, CT; her daughter and son-in-law, Patricia and Mark Mangone of Memphis, TN; and her daughter and son-in-law, Pauline and Kevin Lesko of Fairfield, CT.

She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Leslie Ciruna PhD and her husband Brian Ciruna PhD, Stephanie Knapp and her husband Toby, Kevin Pusateri LT USNR and his wife Veasna, Michael Mangone, Madeline Lesko D.V.M., Kyle Lesko, and Sophia Lesko. Furthermore, she leaves behind four great-grandchildren: Effie Knapp, Allison Ciruna, Avery Ciruna, and Nataliya Tan Pusateri. 

In addition, she is survived by her sister, Ann Hrobuchak of Old Forge, PA; her brother, Walter Doyle of Scranton, PA; her brother and sister-in-law, James and Judy Doyle of Scranton, PA; her sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Stephen Micciche of Ocean View, DE; her brother, Douglas Doyle of Scranton, PA; and her brother, Paul Doyle of Moscow, PA. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, as well as members of her late husband John R. Pusateri's family.

She was predeceased by her devoted husband, John R. Pusateri; her father, John Francis Doyle; her mother, Helen Doyle-Reil; her sister, Patrica Doyle; her brother, Leroy Doyle; her sister, Jean Gallucci; and her sister, Arlene Curatolo.

Born in Pennsylvania, she was the third of eleven children and dedicated her life to her family and community.

Early on, she left school to support her family by working as an elevator operator. However, she soon discovered her passion for photography. As an assistant in a darkroom, she hand-painted beautiful portraits of babies, children, and brides, showcasing her artistic talents.

After marrying John R. Pusateri, they raised five children and relocated to Fairfield. Throughout the years, Betty demonstrated tireless dedication to her family. She courageously returned to finish her high school education and later pursued studies in commercial art at Fairfield University, successfully adapting to the evolving world of technology.

A true do-it-yourselfer, she was known for her ability to fix anything around the house. She tackled home repair projects with confidence and skill, finding joy in her work at a local paint store. There, she embraced the art of color separation and even mastered wallpaper installation.

In addition to her professional life, Betty cherished her time spent gardening, weeding, oil painting, sewing, and baking. She was a devoted member of her church, attending services regularly and instilling a strong sense of values and morality in her children.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM at the Lesko Funeral Home, located at 1209 Post Road, Fairfield Center. A service will follow at 12:00 PM at St. Pius X Church, 834 Brookside Drive, Fairfield, CT. All other services will be held privately. To view Betty's full obituary, obtain travel directions, or sign her online guest register, please visit www.LeskoFuneralHome.com. 

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions can be made to St. Pius X Church, 834 Brookside Drive, Fairfield, CT.