STEPHEN R. HUFTALEN

HUFTALEN, STEPHEN R., 72, of Sterling, CT, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on Friday evening, November 7, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Kathryn M. (Sherman) Huftalen for 49 years. Born in Providence, RI he was a son of the late Howard Benjamin and Dorothy Hope (Roberts) Huftalen. 

Raised in Barrington, Stephen graduated from Barrington High School in 1971 where he was well known for his aggressiveness on the football field. 

He went on to serve in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1978, after more than six years of dedicated service. 

Stephen was employed as a shipfitter at General Dynamics Electric Boat in North Kingstown for 34 years, before retiring in 2017.  

However, his real talent lay in his amazing craftsmanship and woodworking skills. From the house he raised his family in to beautiful wood turned pieces, his creations were admired and desired by all. He became the name to get for Secret Santa!

If he wasn’t in his workshop he could be found in his garage with his 1969 Chevy Chevelle which he rebuilt on his own. 

He was a (very) loud supporter of the New England Patriots, loved camping, overly large breakfasts, cannon balls, and his constant companions, Bear and Pebbles. 

Above all though was Steve’s love for his family.  Children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins… they were his greatest treasure.

He was the caring father of Stephen R. Huftalen Jr. and his wife Tarsha of Mansfield, MA, and Courtney J. Rhilinger and her husband Jeff of West Greenwich. Stephen was the adoring grandfather of McKenzie, Mia, Ryan and Hailey. He was the brother of Susan Braz and late husband Raymond of Coventry, Peter Huftalen and wife Sandy of Meredith, NH, David Huftalen and fiance Charlene of Hiram, ME, the late Howie Huftalen and wife Lisa of Hope Valley, the late Diane Huftalen, and sister in law Donna Huftalen. 

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025 from 10:45am to 12:15pm, followed by a Funeral Service at 12:15pm in the Iannotti Funeral Home at MAPLE ROOT, 2000 Nooseneck Hill Rd. (Rte.3) Coventry.  Interment with military honors at the RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter to follow at 1:30pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to RMHCNE.org  or Veterans Charity - Non Profit Organization for Veterans would be appreciated. iannottifh.com

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