Craig R. Alvarez

Craig "Bumper" R. Alvarez, 64, of Harwinton, CT, passed away Friday, January 24, 2025, at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital. He was the devoted husband of Pamela (Groden) Alvarez for 38 years.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter Kristin Thaler (Jack), from Nahant, MA, his son Tyler Alvarez (Julia Sheahan) of Watertown, CT, a brother, Scott Alvarez (Kristin) of Burlington, CT, two step-sisters, Loretta Giramonti (Gary) of Griswold and Lords Point, CT and Veronica Magistrali (Mark) of Torrington, CT, his sister-in-law Linda (Groden) Duclos of Worcester, MA and he was “Pops” to his greatest joys, his grandchildren Reese and Brody Thaler. Craig, also, predeceases an uncle, Ernie Torizzo and an aunt, Cora Regis. He leaves nieces and nephews, Kyle and Lauren Alvarez, Kim and Michelle Duclos, Kelly Pike, Mark Philip Magistrali, Dani Cutrone, Julia Lobe and Anita Gerrard. Plus, many cousins in his large extended family, including his closest cousin Andrew Cianciolo and friends.

Craig was born December 22, 1960, in Torrington, CT, the son of the late Robert and Barbara (Oneglia) Alvarez. Craig was a lifelong sports enthusiast. As a child, Craig was a pitcher in the local little league for many years. Sports continue to be a central interest in his life; bowling locally, playing basketball at Lewis S. Mills High School, and becoming the captain of his rugby team at Springfield College. He coached his sons’ soccer and lacrosse teams, and never missed his daughters' ballets at the Nutmeg or cheerleading for her high school! Craig also spent years skiing the mountains of Vermont with his family. He was an avid golfer belonging to Hop Meadow CC and Tower Ridge CC. In 2002, while at Tower Ridge he won the Men's Invitational Championship. 

Following his college graduation, Craig began his career working for the Marriott Corporation. He later co-owned the Import Pantry in Torrington with his cousin Bob Oneglia before joining O & G Industries.

Craig retired from O & G Industries as Vice President of the Masonry Division. During retirement Craig enjoyed weekly workouts with his trainer, watching his favorite sports teams and most of all playing with his grandchildren!

Family vacations were a priority for Craig. Whether on the Cape, the Vineyard, the Keys or, in more recent years, down the shore in Wildwood Crest. The beach was truly his happy place!

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025, with the Divine Liturgy of Resurrection at noon at St. Maron’s Church, 613 Main St., Torrington, CT. Relatives and friends are asked to meet directly at St. Maron’s Church. Burial will be private. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Cook Funeral Home, 82 Litchfield St., Torrington, CT 06790.

 In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to the B.O.A.T. Fund, c/o Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, P. O. Box 1144, Torrington, CT 06790.