Orest Jaroslaw Sokolsky

Born on April 9, 1958, in Hartford, Connecticut, Orest spent much of his life in the Hartford area. He was the son of the late Roman and Anna (Pryshlak) Sokolsky. He built a career in information technology, working for Aetna and later for the Ukrainian Credit Union. He was also a longtime member of PLAST, the Ukrainian scouting organization, through which he maintained strong ties to his Ukrainian heritage and community.

Known for his quick wit and sense of humor, Orest had a gift for making people laugh. Friends, family, and even strangers could count on him for a joke or a clever remark. One of his favorite introductions was to tell people to pronounce his name as "Forest without the F," a line that reflected the playful personality that so many came to know and love. His humor left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to spend time with him.

Orest is survived by his wife, Lucy (Stepanec) Sokolsky; his son, Alex Sokolsky; his sister, Oresta (Sokolsky) Baldassari; Mother-in-Law Genny Stepanec; sisters-in-law Ellie Marcello with John and Jane Stepanec; several nieces and nephews; and great-nieces and great-nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Roman Sokolsky and brother-in-law Thomas Stepanec. He also leaves behind many extended family members, friends, and members of the Ukrainian community who will miss him dearly. A lifelong animal lover, Orest will be glad to be reunited with his beloved four-legged companions.

Orest will be remembered for the laughter he brought to others, his fierce love of his family, and the warmth and generosity that defined his life. His memory will live on in the stories, smiles, and fond recollections of those who knew him.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, June 12th from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the funeral home, with a Panahyda service at 6:00 p.m.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 13, beginning with a brief service at 9:00 a.m. at New Britain Memorial & Donald D. Sagarino Funeral Home, 444 Farmington Avenue, New Britain, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Josaphat's Ukrainian Catholic Church, 303 Eddy Glover Boulevard, New Britain. Interment will immediately follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, 1141 Stanley Street, New Britain.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to support the people of Ukraine.