Obituary: Brian Nerkowski, 33; Stratford Native

From Pistey Funeral Home

Brian Nerkowski, a one-of-a-kind, Connecticut born producer whose passion was the news since the age of 5, died peacefully at the young age of 33 on Monday at Yale New Haven Hospital surrounded by family and friends.

Long-time mentor and friend Ann Nyberg said it perfectly, "As a little boy he walked in the door of WTNH News 8 and he was sold. Brian changed the world in his short life, everybody who knew him saw how very special he was."

A graduate of Bunnell High School, Brian went on to earn a degree in broadcast journalism at the University of Miami. He has written, and produced, in Florida and Boston and finished his impressive career as a senior producer at MSNBC.

Brian is survived by his devoted mother, Carol Vass and his sister Karen Nerkowski; his aunts and uncle, Joan and Michael Cataldo, Rose Soncarato (Aunt Rose) and Kathy Barnett; cousins, Matthew and Courtney Cataldo and Christine and Gabe Corbin, Helen O'Brien (Aunt Sis) and Rick Pavone. He was predeceased by his loving father Joseph Nerkowski; step-father Erno Vass; and grandparents Barbara and James Costello. In addition to his loving family, Brian was so incredibly blessed to have so many close and special friends to bring love and light to his life.

Friends may call on Thursday from 5 to 8 pm at the Pistey Funeral Home, 2155 Main Street, Stratford. Friends may attend the funeral on Friday, February 3, 2017 at 10:30 am at First Congregational Church, 2301 Main Street, Stratford. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the "Brian Nerkowski Scholarship Fund" c/o the funeral home. This scholarship will be awarded to a graduating student at Bunnell High who pursues a degree in broadcasting.

To leave online condolences, visit Pistey Funeral Home here.