Patricia Ann (Claffey) Kulpa

Patricia A. Kulpa
February 8, 1943 – March 14, 2025

Patricia A. Kulpa, 82, of Cromwell, CT, passed away peacefully at home on March 14, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on February 8, 1943, in Hartford, CT, to William and Mary Claffey of Hartford, CT, Patricia lived a life filled with love, kindness, and devotion to her husband, children, and grandchildren. She attended Hartford Public High School, Class of 1961, where she met her lifelong love, Bob. Patricia moved to Cromwell, CT in 1971 and remained in her original home ever since.

Pat worked for several years at Edna C. Stevens School before moving on to Aetna, where she later retired. She was known for her warm smile and unforgettable laugh, which could light up any room and bring comfort to those around her. Her warmth and compassion left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Pat enjoyed all kinds of crafts, disco dancing and music. She also enjoyed cooking and travelling, taking several trips to Europe with Bob.  Pat was a constant fixture at her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events for many years. She was also an avid fan of the UConn Women’s Basketball Program and the Norwich Navigator’s Baseball Club.

A faithful member of both St. John’s Church in Cromwell and St. James Church in Rocky Hill, Pat found great joy in her faith and community.

She cherished spending time at her cottage at Lake Hayward in East Haddam, where she loved being with friends and family. She participated in many Lake Hayward Association activities, including weekend bands, potluck dinners, Ladies’ Night, and her particular favorite, "Lake Hayward Days."

Pat is survived by her devoted husband of 59 years, Bob; her beloved daughter, Shannon LaPila, and son-in-law Jamie of Portland; her loving son, Michael Kulpa and daughter-in-law, Laura of Cromwell. She was a proud and adoring grandmother to her six grandchildren: Kyle, Matthew, Aubrey, Ryan, Brennan, and Peyton. She is also survived by her loving brother, William “Billy” Claffey, and sister-in-law, Christine.

She is predeceased by her parents William and Mary Claffey, her sisters Maureen Plourde and Karen Wallwork, as well as her grandson, Shane Patrick LaPila.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the following organizations for their compassionate care over the past few years: Middletown Homecare, Middlesex Hospital Hospice, Home Instead and All-Care of Middletown. 

Family and friends may call on Monday, March 24, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Cromwell Funeral Home, 506 Main Street, Cromwell, to celebrate Pat’s life. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Josephine Bakhita/St. James Church 767 Elm Street, Rocky Hill. A burial will follow in Cromwell Hillside Cemetery West.

To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.

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