John Gacek

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John Gacek, 85, a lifelong resident of Plainville, who passed away peacefully on Friday, July 17, 2026, at the Hospital of Central Connecticut. He was the devoted husband of Patricia (Prior) Gacek, with whom he shared 62 wonderful years of marriage.

Born in Raceville, New York on September 6, 1940, John was the beloved son of the late John and Sophie (Lopata) Gacek. He graduated from Plainville High School in 1959 and is remembered as one of the greatest athletes ever to walk its halls—a true Plainville legend. Excelling in football, basketball, and track, John earned numerous records and accolades in each sport, leaving a lasting legacy in the community. In recognition of his outstanding achievements, he was inducted into the Plainville Sports Hall of Fame in 1998. Following high school, John continued his football career at Garden City Junior College in Kansas before playing semi-professional football with the Hartford Charter Oaks.

Every morning began the same way for John—with a song before leaving the house and a cup of coffee shared with friends at the local McDonald's. He believed in starting each day on a positive note. John loved the outdoors and had a deep appreciation for what he affectionately called "God's Country." His love for America inspired him to serve in the United States Army National Guard, from which he was honorably discharged.

John was a proud and highly skilled ironworker who dedicated his career to the Iron Workers Union Local 15 & 424. He was respected throughout his profession for his knowledge, craftsmanship, and willingness to help others. Colleagues admired him not only for his expertise but also for his work ethic and leadership. For John, work was never just a job—it was something he genuinely loved and took immense pride in doing.

His passion for sports remained a constant throughout his life. He enjoyed watching sporting events, especially UConn women's basketball, and remained an active golfer until his final day. John was also an avid hunter and fisherman whose love for the outdoors took him on countless adventures. For 25 years, he spent two months each year in Alaska, guiding hunting expeditions and sharing his knowledge, humor, and passion for the sport with others. He also enjoyed unforgettable fishing trips to Panama and Key West, creating memories that he cherished for a lifetime.

Many who visited John's home will remember his famous family room—a room that reflected his deep respect for wildlife and the outdoors. Displayed throughout were the animals he had hunted over the years, including dall sheep, elk, antelope and bear to name a few. The room itself was a work of art, featuring hand-crafted beams and a beautiful stone fireplace that John built himself. It became a place of conversation and admiration, drawing many visitors who came to see the remarkable space he had created.

Above all else, John's greatest joy was his family. He was immensely proud of his three daughters and their children, who were the center of his world. Their close-knit family shared an unbreakable bond, always supporting and caring for one another. One of their most treasured traditions was their family beach vacation to Sandbridge, Virginia, where they gathered in a house by the water to relax, laugh, and create lasting memories together. It was a tradition they all eagerly anticipated each year.

Throughout his life, John faced many challenges, but he never let them define him. His perseverance and determination often surprised his doctors, as he continually exceeded expectations with his strong desire to remain active and keep moving forward. He truly lived by the motto of doing things his own way. His strength, resilience, quick wit, down-to-earth nature, and unmistakable sense of humor touched everyone who knew him and will be remembered with great affection for years to come.

In addition to his wife, Patricia (Prior) Gacek, John is survived by his daughters, Sheri Ierardi and her husband, Richard, Cyndi Parker and her husband, Scott, and Wendi Kerr and her husband, Richard; his 8 grandchildren, Taylor, Jason, Katelyn, Riley, Justin, John, Jared, and Jake; and his siblings, Henrietta Zooleck and Mary McIntyre. He was predeceased by his brother, Francis Gacek.

Family and friends are welcome to gather in celebration of John's life on his birthday, Sunday, September 6, 2026 from 9 to 11 AM at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad Street, Plainville. Words of remembrance will be shared at 11 AM at the funeral home. Burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of John may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 http://www.stjude.org or to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306 http://www.t2t.org

For more information or to leave online expressions of sympathy, please visit http://www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com

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