Peter John Dirga, 83, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2026. The son of the late Andrew Dirga and Anna Kravitz Dirga, he was born in Bridgeport on July 12, 1943.

After graduating from Warren Harding high school and embarking on some youthful shenanigans that he would later recount to his family with a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face, he earned certification as a tool and die maker. Following his certification, he was employed by General Electric, working his way up to Foreman, Union Delegate and Representative.

He met and married the love of his life, Sharon K. Browning in high school. They had three daughters and spent 48 wonderful, happy years together before Sharon’s passing in 2014.

Peter loved life and lived it on his terms, right up to his final day. Enduring the tragic loss of his wife, two of his daughters and son-in-law, he was determined to enjoy every moment in honor of them.

He could be intimating upon first introductions, especially in his younger years, but he was the most kind, generous and fun-loving man; a big softie on the inside.

Pete loved baseball, basketball and football and watched college and professional games regularly. He was a Yankees fan but rooted for the Mets sometimes and was a long-suffering NY Jets fan. He was a well-known bookie in his younger years; he enjoyed the competition and excitement. We can reveal this now; the statute of limitations has expired.

Pete was an avid gardener, always excited to start a new season and share his organically grown produce. In his younger years, he bowled, golfed and played tennis. He renovated his home and never thought a project was too big to take on. Even when clearly, it was.

His duplex rental property in Milford is well known among a portion of the community as he rented for more than 20 years to young couples and people looking for a break, helping them start a future or secure one.

He listened to music, usually at full volume, and loved to sing. Music will be a part of his services at his request. Regarding services, please come as you are.

Family was the most important thing in Pete’s life, and he showed it every single day. He cherished his family and made sure we had the support we needed.

Pete was funny, outspoken and outrageous at times as everyone who knew him knows too well. He was one of kind, broke the mold and is greatly missed.

We take comfort knowing he is with the departed family and friends that he missed so much.

We love you Dad, Pop-Pop – friend.

Rest in Peace, you deserve – and earned it.

PS – don’t cause too much ruckus up there. They might kick you out.

Peter is survived by his daughter Michelle Murphy (Richard), his grandchildren Jennifer Berez (Aaron), Madison and Jake Murphy, Michael, Jonathan and Andrew Carroll, and great-grandson, Callen.

He was predeceased by his parents, siblings Andrew, George and Irene (Patrick), his wife Sharon, his daughters Denise J. Carroll and Leigh Dirga, and his son-in-law, Raymond T. Carroll.

Visitation will take place on Thursday, August 20th from 10-11:30 in the Adzima Funeral Home 50 Paradise Green Place Stratford. A prayer service will take place at 11:30 AM with interment following in St John’s Cemetery Stratford.

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the charity of your choice in Peter’s honor.