Stephen Francis Wadejko, age 61, of Bridgeport, a welder with Black Rock Column, Inc. passed away on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at St. Raphael Hospital in New Haven. He was born in Bridgeport on June 17, 1965, to Betty Racowski Wadejko and the late Francis John (Stephen) Wadejko and has been a lifelong Bridgeport resident.

Stephen was a graduate of Notre Dame High School, Fairfield, CT (Class of 1983). He also graduated from Porter & Chester Institute, attended Paul Smith’s College, NY, and served in the U.S. Army.

Stephen was a man of many talents. He could build or fix almost anything. He was an excellent cook, who loved making all the holiday family dinners. He was known as the “stuffed mushroom guru,” “sourdough bread master,” and the “carrot cake king.” He was also a lover of all things garlic!

Stephen was a natural born teacher. He instinctively understood how people learned, and was able to meet them at their level of understanding; finding just the right way to explain something so it made sense to them.

He was a puzzle-solver, driving instructor, gardener, and the list goes on…

Survivors in addition to his beloved mother Betty, include his sisters, Stephanie Zuiewski and Francine Grosso. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Scott Iannucci, his nieces Brittany MacLean, Brooke Turiano, Sarah Southard and nephew Brandon Grosso, great niece and nephew Teagan and Devin MacLean, as well as his beloved feline companion - Birdie-Cat.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the entire ICU medical team who cared for Stephen. The care, dedication, and support they provided throughout his illness is greatly appreciated. A special thank you to nurse Dan Judson, R.N. for his exceptional care, compassion, and kindness shown to Stephen and our family. Dan, your dedication and humanity made a lasting impression, and we will always be grateful.

All services are private and entrusted to the Adzima Funeral Home 50 Paradise Green Place Stratford. A celebration of Stephen’s life will be held at a later date. Details will be announced when arrangements have been finalized.