BETHANY- It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Dr. Jaak Rakfeldt, Ph.D, age 79, of Bethany, shares the news of his peaceful passing on Monday, April 20, 2026 in the comfort of his own home, surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Kristi (Ranna) Rakfeldt.

Jaak was born in Stockholm, Sweden on August 25, 1946, the beloved son of the late Ilmar and Miralda (Laanepere) Rakfeldt. His family escaped soviet repression via fishing boat crossing the Baltic Sea and were rescued by a Swedish ship. In 1949, he embarked on a new journey, immigrating to Canada on the RMS Aquitania and a year later to the U.S. where he grew up in Niagara County, New York. His remarkable intelligence and determination led him to score the highest marks on the New York State Regents Test, paving the way for a distinguished career in higher education. He earned his doctorate in Social Work from Syracuse University and moved to Connecticut for a post-doctoral fellowship at Yale University.

Dr. Rakfeldt dedicated more than forty years to clinical practice, serving as Professor Emeritus in the Graduate Clinical Social Work Program at Southern and as an Assistant Clinical Professor at the Yale University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry. His contributions to academia included publishing over 60 papers and chapters, more than one hundred conference presentations, and sharing his expertise through clinical supervision of third-year psychiatry residents. He authored a poignant book titled "Song of My Soul," which illuminated his family’s experiences and the resilience of the Estonian people during World War II.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jaak had a zest for life. He found joy in playing tennis, spending time in the sauna, engaging in creative writing, exploring the world through travel, enjoying the arts, and cherishing moments with his family. He was active in various organizations, including the Estonian American National Council, the Estonian World Council, the Estonian Academic Fraternity-Korp! Fraternitas Estica and served as the chairman of the Connecticut Estonian Society. His passion for Estonian identity and culture resonated deeply within him and in the lives he touched. Jaak will be remembered not only for his professional contributions but also for the love he shared with his family and friends. His legacy of compassion, intellect, and dedication will remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

Left to honor and cherish his memory, besides his loving wife of 46 years, are his children; Kaili Rehm and her husband Justin of Woodbridge, Kiia Mai Silverstrim and her husband Damian of Woodbridge, Jaak Kristjan Rakfeldt of Bethany, his grandchildren; Ayla, Tegan, Taya, Ty, Brie. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family members and beloved friends. He is predeceased by his son Aavo Rakfeldt and his sisters Helle Leetman- Klepp and Tiia Hughes.

A Celebration of Life for Mr. Rakfeldt will be planned at a later date. Burial will be held privately at the convenience of his family. Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St, Waterbury, CT, has been honored to care for Jaak and support his family during this difficult time. To honor Jaak’s memory and in lieu of flowers donations to The Connecticut Estonian Society https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=C9G9GTWM5JQP2, would be greatly appreciated by the family. In this time of reflection, the family welcomes all who knew and loved Jaak to share messages of condolence, comfort, and cherished memories. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to connect with the family or honor their loved one’s memory with floral arrangements and other gifts.