Stephen C. Zgradden, 73, of Shelton, CT passed away peacefully on June 14, 2023 due to illness brought on by Alzheimer's Disease at Bridgeport Hospital.  Born on August 3, 1949 in New Haven, CT, he was the son of the late Kathleen (O'Brien) and Ernest Zgradden.  After graduating from Notre Dame, West Haven in 1967 he went on to graduate from the University of New Haven in 1971 with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and Management.  While at the University of New Haven he was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon where he served as Interfraternity Council President and acquired the useful skill of parade float building which he later used to win multiple awards for his elaborate floats in Stratford's Memorial Day Parade for the Indian Princess/Guide program.  After College, Zig (as he was known to all) started his career at Lester H. Brenner, Inc. working in the Insurance industry, specializing in both Personal and Commercial Lines.  This career move would eventually lead him to Zgradden Insurance Group, Inc. which he founded in Stratford and proudly served his community's insurance needs for many years.  He earned countless professional awards throughout his career and made personal connections with all of his clients who became friends.  Zig was the kind of agent that would show up at your door when you were in need.  He was that kind of person-always.

In 1974 Zig married the love of his life, Mare - Mary Anne (Dlugos) Zgradden.  They resided in Stratford, CT for 40 years surrounded by the community Zig had helped create.  He was Director of the Stratford Jaycees from 1977-1982 and named the Key Man of the Year in 1980 for his community service achievements.  He would continue his community service efforts as a member of St. Mark Parish, Stratford with the Bazaar, musicals and Emmaus as well as Sterling House Community Center in Stratford where he volunteered countless hours and helped man events such as the Celebrity Breakfast.  He passionately gave his time to every sports team possible for his sons and the youth of Stratford coaching baseball, basketball and soccer.  He treasured those years on the fields/courts with his children, their teammates and his co-coaches.  Friendships were made that lasted a lifetime.  He ended his coaching career at Bunnell High School coaching the Freshmen Basketball team.  Zig's most successful philanthropic endeavor is undoubtedly the Annual Michael Zgradden Memorial Golf Tournament that benefitted the scholarship fund named for his brother.  He awarded over $100k to Hamden HS graduates over the years while providing a yearly event for friends and family.

Zig loved spending time with his friends and associates while bowling, golfing and enjoying the annual golf trip to Myrtle Beach he arranged every year.  In later years, Zig's enjoyment could be found again on the ball field or at the courts while watching his grandchildren, never missing a game.  He was a beloved Papa to his grandchildren, oftentimes shuttling one to an event while Mima (Mare) was in charge of another.  He gave endlessly to his family, his friends and his community.  He was a hero to his family and will remain so always.

Zig was predeceased by his parents Kathleen and Ernest and his brother Michael.  He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years Mare, Mary Anne Zgradden; his children Christina (Chrissy) Zgradden, Catherine (Katie) O'Neil and her husband James (Jim) O'Neil, Stephen (Steve) Zgradden and his wife Karen Nerkowski Zgradden, Michael (Mike) Zgradden, his daughter-in-law Nicole (Nikki) Zgradden; his grandchildren Brady, Dylan, Lucy, Aubree, Josie, Tate; his grand-dog Charlie; his siblings Maryann Furtak, Robert Zgradden and their families.

Friends and Family may call on Monday, June 19th from 4:00-7:00 pm at Dennis-D'Arcy-Abriola-Kelemen, 2611 Main Street, Stratford.  A Mass  of Christian Burial will be celebrated on June 20th, 11:00 am at St James Roman Catholic Church, 2070 Main Street, Stratford .  In lieu of flowers, please donate to: the Alzheimer's Association @ https://act.alz.org/donate