Here in Hampton we escaped many of the consequences of Covid-19, living far from the close quarters of urban areas, with a school small enough to accommodate all of the students during the days of social distancing, and plenty of nature preserves to spend time in while we were isolating. We did not, however, escape the worst aspect of the pandemic, the death of loved ones. Here we pay tribute to two of our neighbors who we lost to this dreadful disease and tragic chapter of American history.
Duska Anne Meister Waite passed away on December 10, 2021 surrounded by her loved ones. She was 61 years old. Born in Meriden on June 10, 1960, Duska was the daughter of Dr. Jack and Dawn Meister. The family moved to Hampton in 1971, and Duska graduated from Parish Hill in 1978. A communicant of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, she taught catechism for several years there.
Duska was known for her heart of gold and was always putting everyone’s needs before her own. She was always spending quality time with her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she absolutely adored. For the last 14 years she was employed at Walmart, where every one of us who knew Duska took the opportunity to talk with her. I’d look forward to visiting with her there. She’d tell me how her grandchildren were doing, and ask about my boys, no matter how busy she was. We’d talk about small town drama. But she’d always get back to talking about her grandkids. She was just so thrilled to be a grandma. Her eyes would sparkle with love and pride. Duska always looked for the good in everyone, and was able to find it, even if it was hard to see. The town extends condolences to her family, her mother, her husband of 41 years Neal Waite, her two children, Jessica and Benjamin, her five grandchildren, Emily, Elly Boyle, Austin, Connor, and Derek Waite. She will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Becky Gagne