Madison Selectmen Board Member, Former State Rep, Noreen Kokoruda Dies

MADISON, CT — Decades-long public servant Noreen Kokoruda, 75, has died, according to First Selectwoman Peggy Lyons as posted on the town's official Facebook page.

"It is with great sadness that I announce today the recent passing of Madison Board of Selectmen member and former State Representative Noreen Kokoruda. Right up until her final days, Noreen was a dedicated public servant who loved this town dearly, serving Madison residents for over 40 years in so many different ways. Her compassion for others, commitment to service, and devotion to her family and friends, is a lasting legacy we can all share and celebrate together as a community. Our sincerest condolences go out to her family during this very difficult time.

"In honor of her memory, I am ordering all flags at all Madison town facilities to be lowered to half-staff starting at noon today, December 22nd, and to remain lowered until sunset on the date of interment, which has not yet been determined."

Kokoruda spent a decade as a state legislator serving Madison, was a current and former member of the Madison Board of Selectmen, was Chairman of Madison Beach and Recreation Commission and was a non-profit executive.

Community reaction was swift on social media.

Madison Democrats wrote: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Noreen Kokoruda. Although there may have been times where we disagreed on a policy, no one can question her dedication to Madison. Noreen served as our State Representative, on (the) Board of Selectmen and was an active member of several Boards and Committees. Right up until the end, she was on Zoom meetings giving her time and energy to Madison. For decades, Noreen was a tireless public servant for the Town of Madison and her voice will be missed.

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to her husband Dan and the entire Kokoruda family. Noreen touched many lives, and we are all better people for having known her."

The Madison Women & Family Life Center described Kokoruda as a "friend" and advocate for domestic and sexual violence survivors.

Connecticut House Republicans spoke of Kokoruda's "dedication to her community and constituents."

"Sad news out of Madison about former 101st District state Rep. Noreen Kokoruda, a member of the House Republican family whose dedication to her community and constituents can't be overlooked. We'll be thinking of Noreen's family and friends and hope you'll do the same."

State Sen. Christine Cohen said Kokruda's "love and commitment to her family, her friends, and her district was evident in all that she did."

"I feel fortunate to have known Noreen." Cohen said.

The Knights of Columbus Sacred Heart Council 5780, Madison called her a "longtime advocate" for Madison citizens.

"Many of us know Noreen Kokoruda, her husband Dan and their children and grandchildren who live in Madison. Noreen passed away yesterday surrounded by her family after a long and valiant fight against thyroid cancer. Noreen has been a longtime advocate for the citizens of our community through her dedicated efforts in both local and state legislative positions, including her most recent and current position on our board of selectmen. Noreen is a champion of Madison and will be sorely missed.

"Please keep Noreen, Dan, and their entire family in our prayers. I will pass along funeral service information as soon as I know it. May Jesus be close to the Kokoruda family, and to all of us, this Christmas season, and always! Thank you and God Bless!"

State Rep. Vincent Candelora said Kokoruda's "passion for public service within the shoreline region was eclipsed only by her boundless dedication to family and friends she loved with all her heart."

Current Madison Board of Finance member and former Madison Board of Education chair Katie Stein wrote: "Such a sad day. Thank you Noreen for your dedication, tireless work and inspiration. You were always available to talk, share advice and offer support. You have made a tremendous and lasting impact on Madison, Connecticut (and me). I will miss working with you. My condolences to the Kokoruda family. You are in my heart and prayers. Noreen’s legacy will live on."

State Representative Devin Carney (R-23) said Kokoruda took him "under her wing" when he was first elected.

"When I first got elected, one of my colleagues I admired - and looked up to most - was Noreen Kokoruda. She took me under her wing immediately and helped guide me through the legislature. Noreen embodied everything good and honorable about a public servant. She was incredibly caring and honest and worked so hard for her constituents, especially those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She poured her heart and soul into her service and the State of Connecticut is better off because of it.

"She was so dedicated to her family and I ask you to please keep her kids, grandkids, and her wonderful husband Dan in your thoughts and prayers. I - and so many others - will miss her terribly, but will always remember her positive impact, strength, and kindness."

Eileen Banisch said Kokoruda was her "friend, comrade in arms, 'my 4th sister.' and Madison's best ambassador and representative."

State Rep. John Michael Parker wrote a moving tribute to Kokoruda.

"Her service to the Town of Madison and the State of Connecticut were marked by a level-headed, pragmatic, and open-armed approach, and an unshakable belief in the possibility of government working to make our lives better."

But perhaps the most touching of all social media posts comes from Kokoruda's son, Shane.

"I’ve gone my whole life being known as 'Noreen’s son' and I can’t think of a greater compliment or gift," he wrote.

According to Swan Funeral Home, her services will be Jan. 7, 2023, a Mass of Christian Burial, at 10 a.m. at St. Margaret Church. Academy Street in Madison.