Clara Sophia (Konefal) Bakaj

Clara Sophia Bakaj, 97, of Lebanon and formerly of Kensington, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023.  She was the widow of Edward Bakaj.

Born in New Britain, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Kata) Konefal.  Clara was a longtime Kensington resident before moving to Lebanon in 2006.  She was formerly employed at Sherri Cup and was a member of St. Paul Church.  Clara enjoyed canning, crocheting, puzzles and word searches.

Surviving are her children, Eddie Bakaj of Lebanon, Theresa Lee and her husband Warren of Colchester, Dorothy Reeve and her husband Edward of Southport, NC, and Michael Bakaj and his wife Tammie of Lebanon; nine grandchildren, and thirteen great-grandchildren.  In addition to her parents and husband, Clara was predeceased by a brother, Stanley Konefal, and by three sisters, Ann Danko, Helen Blois, and Bernice Chausse.  The family would like to thank Clara’s hospice team and offer special thanks to her caregiver, Lyshondra.

Funeral services will be held on Monday at 9 AM at Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home of Berlin, 111 Chamberlain Hwy, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 AM at St. Paul Church, Kensington.  Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery.  Calling hours are Sunday from 2-4 PM at the funeral home.  Memorial donations may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.