Rebecca Michelle Wilansky

The world has lost a rare and beautiful spirit.

 Rebecca Michelle Wilansky, 46, of Higganum, Connecticut passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 27, 2023.  

 A long-standing financial analyst at Yale New Haven Hospital, Rebecca was more than just a wonderful mother, wife, daughter, sister, and aunt. She was the vibrant, passionate center of every family gathering, the orchestrator of fun, an inspirational source of warmth and cheer.

 But beyond that, she was something much more important. She was profoundly selfless. Everyone else came first. She was, and always will be loved by so many, because she loved so many.

 In 2012, Rebecca married the love of her life, Frank Bonito. Together, they produced and nurtured two amazing children, Isla, 11, and Elise, 9. They were the joy of Rebecca’s life. Their trips to Block Island, many beaches and concerts were only some of the highlights of the family's adventures. A dedicated mother every day of her life, Rebecca was not only transportation to dance and soccer, but an active backstage presence and cheerleader. 

Yet, the family was not complete without their cherished furry family members, Phoebe and Maverick, who provided unending sources of love and comfort.

 The circle of her love and influence extended far beyond the immediate family. Even the limitless space of the internet couldn't contain the list of people who meant so much to Rebecca -- and vice versa.

 Above all, she leaves behind her beloved mother, Susan Wilansky of Lanesboro, Massachusetts and longtime partner David Fiedler. Rarely would a day -- or oftentimes an hour -- go by without Rebecca and her mom sharing a quick phone call to update each other on the small, yet significant, moments that became the threads of an unbreakable bond. It's fair to say this wasn't just a mother-daughter connection; it was a deep and precious friendship that enriched both their lives in countless ways.

 Rebecca also leaves behind her mother-in-law, Connie Jarrell of Wallingford, Connecticut, who always occupied a special place in her heart, and her two treasured stepchildren Matt Bonito of Prospect, Connecticut and Nicole Bonito of Boston, Massachusetts. In addition, her brother Matthew Wilansky (Alane) of Marlborough, Connecticut, and their children, Lillian (13) and Calen (11), will deeply miss her presence.

 Rebecca was predeceased by her father, Stewart Wilansky, who passed away in 2004.

 This past Saturday was a testament to Rebecca’s zest for life. Along with her two incredible children, and her favorite niece and nephew, they embarked on a day-long adventure at Six Flags. They laughed, screamed, and ate candy. Lots of it.

 For all the joy and laughter from the kids, it was Rebecca's genuine happiness that day that truly and appropriately embodied the essence of her character.

 If we learned anything from Rebecca's legacy, it's to live life to the fullest. Be kind. More than anything, she taught us to love without limits.

  Funeral services will be this Wednesday, August 30 at 11:00 a.m. at Congregational Adath Israel, 8 Broad Street, Middletown, Connecticut. A burial will be held following the service in Adath Israel Cemetery in Middletown.  A luncheon will follow.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Rebecca’s memory may be made to Congregation Adath Israel Synagogue, P.O. Box 337, Middletown, CT 06457. To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.

If you would like to join the service virtually, the link is provided below;

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87305935679?pwd=d21QQjJqa0Z1ekw3ZnJYaWhyTTR6dz09

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