Rita B. Kunz, age 90, lifelong resident of both West Haven and New Haven, beloved wife to the late James L. Kunz, passed away suddenly on September 4, 2017. Born in New Haven on October 7, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Mose and Madelyn (McDermott) Brenner. Rita married James L. Kunz on June 29, 1951 in New York City. They lived together in West Haven until James’ death in 1999. Rita’s professional life began at the Knights of Columbus. After raising her family, Rita returned to work for the City of West Haven in the assessor’s office where she retired after 21 years as Deputy Assessor. She was a longtime parishioner at Saint John Vianney Church, where she was a lector and held many offices of the Ladies Guild. Rita’s greatest joys included her five children, siblings, and her grandchildren who she doted on and drew immense pleasure from. Family was everything to Rita. Her other joys included Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, and the daily crossword puzzle. Rita’s family is grateful to the residents and staff of Tower One in New Haven, Rita’s home for the last three years.
Rita is survived by her children Pamela A. Kunz (Robert Jones), Sharon M. Wise, Kimberly K. (Michael) Fitzgerald, James B. Kunz (Donna Giguere), Joseph B. Kunz (Amelia DeBaggis), grandchildren Amelia, Melanie, David, Stephen, Devon, Camryn, Christopher, Joshua, Nicholas, Derek, Chelsea, greatgrandchildren Liam and Joshua, and sisters Patricia B. Ives and Janet B. Franzoni. She was predeceased by her siblings Joseph L. Brenner and Helen B. Peck.
Visitation will be held on Friday from 6 to 8 PM at the West Haven Funeral Home at the Green. The funeral procession will leave at 9:30 AM for A Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated in Saint Lawrence Church on Saturday at 10 AM. Relatives and friends are invited to call at the funeral home Saturday morning from 8 to 9 AM. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rita’s name to a charity of one’s choice.
Provide comfort for the family by planting a tree in memory of Rita B. Kunz, please visit our
Heartfelt Sympathies Store.