Fairfield Probate Judge Dies Suddenly

FAIRFIELD, CT — The Fairfield community is mourning the sudden loss of longtime probate judge Daniel F. Caruso, who was found dead Sunday night, according to the Connecticut Post. He was 60 years old.

The Post reports that Caruso, a Republican who also served as a state representative and on the Fairfield Board of Finance and Representative Town Meeting, was found unresponsive by a neighbor at about 9 p.m. Sunday in the laundry room of the Strathmoor building where he lived. Caruso's death is under investigation, but police told the Post there appears to be no foul play involved.

"Judge Caruso was a man of deep faith, a devoted public servant and a friend to many,” State Sen. Tony Hwang said. “To me, he was a mentor and a role model. He dedicated himself to improving the lives of Fairfield residents and the lives of people across Connecticut. His sudden loss is heartbreaking, and we join together in sending our condolences to his family. I know Judge Caruso's legacy will live on as we remember his commitment to community, his kindness, and his tireless efforts to help others."

Selectman Chris Tymniak said he was stunned by the news of Caruso’s passing.

“Dan was the most selfless man I ever met,” Tymniak said, via the Fairfield Republicans on Facebook. “Everyone who knew Dan has a story about how he went out his way to impact their lives, he was always a voice of reason and honesty. Dan’s passing is a huge loss for Fairfield and across the State of Connecticut. He was a true Statesman’s and will be missed by all.”

State Rep. Laura Devlin, R-134, said Caruso was an “amazing man with a distinguished career and legacy.”

“He truly loved the Town of Fairfield and was a major part of its community spirit,” Devlin said. “He was a man of great faith and integrity. You could always count on him to provide much needed counsel or advice when called upon—and many people did. I will miss him dearly, as I know countless others will. My thoughts are with his family as they go through this difficult time.”

“Dan gave his whole heart and soul to our community,” State Rep. Brenda Kupchick, R-132, said. “Fairfield has lost one of its finest. I’m going to really miss my friend.”

Fairfield Republican Town Committee Chairman Jamie Millington said Caruso possessed “all the finest qualities that we hope for in a public official and a friend.”

“He loved Fairfield and he loved serving his community,” Millington said. “Fairfield will never be the same place without him.”

Funeral services for Caruso will take place at Spear-Miller Funeral Home, located at 39 South Benson Road in Fairfield. Calling hours will be held from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, March 2. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, March 3 at 10 a.m. at t. Pius X Church, 834 Brookside Drive in Fairfield.

Photo via Spear-Miller Funeral Home