Lauretta "Laurie" Jean Cruess

Laurie Coffey Cruess, 67, of Cheshire, beloved wife of 42 years to Michael Cruess, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2025 after a long courageous battle with cancer. Laurie was born on October 29, 1957 in Danbury, CT to the late Martin and Marie Coffey.

Laurie attended Danbury schools, graduating in 1975 from Danbury High School. Laurie greatly enjoyed attending the stock car races at the Danbury Race arena where she met her future husband, Michael. Laurie worked in the nursing home industry for many years, starting in the kitchen at the Pavilion in Danbury and moving to the front office. She stayed in this industry for many years ending as a business office manager at the Highlands in Cheshire. Laurie enjoyed spending time at her condo in Countryside Golf and Country Club in Florida during those cold winter months. Laurie loved watching her children in their sports and music endeavors. She of late enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s activities. Laurie and family appreciate all family, friends, and medical personnel from the Hartford Healthcare System for their support and care during her medical endeavors.

In addition to her husband, Mike, she leaves behind her children, Kristine (Jake) Ford and Patrick (Amanda) Cruess; grandchildren, Ashton and Killian Ford and Grayson Cruess; siblings, Martin (Virginia) Coffey, Karen (Gary) Tomasini and Glory (John) Bennette; brother-in-law, Tom Cruess; sister-in-law, Sharon (Paul) Carney; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members. She was predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law, Donna (Trevor) Wildman; her parents-in-law, Thomas and Eleanor Cruess; and sister-in-law, Noree Cruess.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Thursday, May 29, 2025 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Alderson-Ford Funeral Home, 615 South Main St., Cheshire. The family will greet visitors again on Friday, May 30, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. at St. Bridget of Sweden Church, 175 Main St., Cheshire. Burial will follow at Cheshire Hillside Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Vincent DePaul Mission.