Joseph L. Kurjiaka

Joe was born on December 4, 1946, to Joseph and Phyllis Kurjiaka and grew up surrounded by love. At age 13, he met his soulmate, Sheila, sharing their first sweet kiss—a moment that began a lifelong journey together. Their love blossomed through years of dating, and eventually they married, building a warm and caring family.

Joe and Sheila lovingly raised six boys, always putting his heart and soul into ensuring their lives were filled with joy, opportunity, and cherished memories. He dedicated himself to Northeast Utilities/Connecticut Light and Power/EverSource, working tirelessly through every kind of storm and challenge, all so his sons could have the chances he never had.

Joe’s unwavering commitment, strength, and spirit made him an inspiring role model, teaching his boys the value of perseverance and hard work. He was stubborn, determined, and resilient, but above all, he was a man who loved deeply and worked selflessly for his family, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion.

After retiring, Joe embraced each day with the same energy and devotion he brought to his family and career. He cherished simple joys: always telling a joke to make people laugh and sharing stories with his loved ones, taking long walks with the family dog by his side, and finding peace while tending to the yard that he created for the kids to use for all their hobbies to ensure they were safe. Above all, the golf course became a special place for him—a haven where he bonded with the boys and friends, perfected his swing, and relished every round. Joe was never one to sit still; his vibrant spirit touched everyone around him, making every moment together truly meaningful.

Danbury has always been home to Sheila and Joe, supporting all six boys through college and throughout their lives, helping them to develop into well-rounded husbands and fathers.

Besides his wife, Sheila, Joe was predeceased by his parents, Joe and Phyllis (Gagliardi) Kurjiaka; and his sister, MaryAnn Motika.

He is survived by his six children: Joe, Matt, Jeff, Kris, Tyler and Nick; his daughters in-law: Lisa, Leah, Liz, Kate, Lizabeth, and Lara; and his thirteen grandchildren: Kyle, Ryan, Lahja, Jordan, Cam, Elli, Oliver, Declan, Leo, Luke, Slater, Cody and Taran. He is also survived by his brother, Leon, and many loving nieces and nephews.

A Graveside Service with military honors will be held at 11:00am on Friday, April 24, 2026, at St. Peter Cemetery, 71 Lake Ave. Ext., Danbury, CT.

A Celebration of Life will take place at 1:00pm at the family residence.

Contributions in Joe's memory may be made to Ann's Place, 80 Saw Mill Rd., Danbury, CT 06810 or to D.A.W.S. (Danbury Animal Welfare Society), 147 Grassy Plain St., Bethel, CT 06801.

Arrangements by Green Funeral Home, Danbury, CT.