Newington Obituary: Henry Socha, 92

Henry J. Socha of Newington died peacefully on Friday (January 20, 2017) at the age 92.

Henry was predeceased by his beloved wife of 57 years Elizabeth “Betty” Socha, his brothers, Ed, Teddy and Richard Socha and his sister Irene Socha.

Henry was a devoted father and is survived by his children, Joseph Socha of Newington, Mark Socha and Nora Bernhard of Newington and Katherine Viani and her husband Edward of West Hartford. Henry leaves his younger sister Jennie Smith of East Hartford and many nieces and nephews as well as grand and great grand nieces and nephews. Henry’s pride and joy were his four grandchildren whom he loved, played, joked with, and cared for from the day they were born. Linnea Viani of Las Vegas, NV, Teddy Viani of Tuscaloosa, AL, Emily Socha of Minneapolis, MN and Connor Socha of Southington. Henry leaves his good friends and kind neighbors who have helped him over the years, Beverly and Glenn Billiter, Joe and Rose Kozun, Gail Geisel and his oldest friend Ed Wisinewski.

Henry served in the Merchant Marines during WWII and the U.S. Army in the Korean War. He had great pride for his country and all that the United States represents. Henry enjoyed his later years visiting his cottage on Cape Cod with Betty, family gatherings, a good martini made by Gene Viani and cheering on the UConn Women’s basketball team.

The family would like to thank the wonderful nurses and staff at Bliss 9 East and Dr. Albert and his palliative team. They made his last days comfortable and he thought they were all amazing.

In lieu of flowers a donation in his memory to a charity of your choice.

Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

To share a memory with the family, please visit www.dillonbaxter.com.