Gerald Kaczenski

Gerald E. Kaczenski, 78, lifelong resident of Bristol and dedicated man of service, peacefully passed on November 15, 2024, in Sebastian, FL., where he has resided since 2019. He was the beloved husband of Barbara (Smith) Kaczenski, with whom he shared 30 years of love and life adventures.

Born on October 19, 1946, he was one of two sons to the late Edward and Carmella (Laconte) Kaczenski.   A graduate of St. Anthony School, he showcased his skills on the basketball and baseball courts, shaping his love for sports that stayed with him throughout his life. His path led him to the US Army, where he valiantly served as a medic in the 1st Calvary Division during the Vietnam War.  Upon being honorably discharged in 1969, Jerry attended CCSU, and went on to establish himself as a successful entrepreneur and retail manager in his hometown, founding Jerry's Paint and Wallpaper, which later became Jerry’s Paint and Flooring Center, a testament to his hard work and ambition. He was civic minded, with a dedicated presence on various committees, including St. Anthony's PTO and Parish Council, Bristol Board of Education, the Bristol Zoning Commission, and as past Precinct Chairman of the 78th District of the Democratic Town Committee.  Jerry’s commitment to his community extended beyond politics, serving as a Justice of the Peace and embodying the values of service and integrity in all facets of his life. A devoted family man, he cherished time spent with loved ones and found joy in supporting his favorite sports teams, including the NY Yankees, Boston Celtics, and UCONN men’s basketball, and enjoying a round of golf whenever possible.  Jerry lived a life rooted in family, community, patriotism, and devotion, and will be remembered fondly for the leadership, wisdom and love he bestowed upon others.

In addition to his wife, Barbara, he leaves his daughter, Jaime Azab, her husband Saleh, and their children, Abraheem, Jennah and Adam; his son, Michael Kaczenski, his wife Nur Ashiqin Nirmal and their daughter, Lana Kaczenski; his step-son, Matthew Lane; brother Gary Kaczenski and his wife Flo; and many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his son, Bryan Kaczenski.

In lieu of flowers, Jerry may be remembered with contributions to benefit his fellow veterans at House of Heroes CT, 3342 Whitney Ave, Hamden, CT 06518 or www.hohct.org

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua, 111 School St., Bristol.  Committal services with military honors will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Bristol.  Family and friends may gather prior to the Mass on Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville.  For online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com

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