Sidney Hammond Challenger, Jr.

Sidney Hammond Challenger, Jr., age 89, of Trumbull, beloved husband of the late Mary Ellen Challenger passed away peacefully in his sleep Saturday, November 12, 2016. Born in Bridgeport, the son of the late Sidney H. Challenger, Sr. and Ethel (Hull) Challenger, he had been a Trumbull resident since 1953. Mr. Challenger graduated early from Bassick High School and served in the United States Navy during World War II stationed in Long Beach, CA. Following the War he attended the University of Bridgeport and West Virginia Wesleyan College. Mr. Challenger served as Vice President of his father's business, Frank H. Fargo Office Supply. He later retired as a Regional Sales Manager for the Hartford Office Supply Company. He was a long-time active member of the United Congregational Church in Bridgeport where he served as Sexton, was a Life Deacon and active on many boards and church groups. He was a member of the Contemporary Club, was a past President of the Trumbull Exchange Club, volunteered as an Ambassador Plus at Griffin Hospital and most recently served as President of the Residents Council at Spring Meadows in Trumbull. Mr. Challenger loved bowling and playing Bridge and was a member of many bowling leagues and Bridge clubs. He enjoyed playing tennis for many years and also enjoyed square dancing with his wife. Sidney and Mary Ellen travelled extensively throughout the world, but above all else his greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends. Survivors include two loving sons David Hammond Challenger and his wife Sharon of Haddam, and Paul Lawson Challenger and his wife Kim of Jefferson, MA; two beloved grandchildren, Colby Auger and her husband Andrew of Framingham, MA and Whitney Challenger of Harrison, NJ; a step-grandson, Bryan Meek and his wife Mary of Norwalk; and three great-grandchildren, Rachel, Brendan and Rebecca Meek. A memorial service will be held Friday, November 18, 2016 at 12:00 at the United Congregational Church, Bridgeport. Interment will be private in Mountain Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the United Congregational Church, 877 Park Ave., Bridgeport, CT 06604. For information or to sign an online guest register please visit www.SpearMillerFuneralHome.com