John Kowalyshyn Jr.'s Obituary
John Kowalyshyn Jr., a devoted family man, dedicated community servant, and lifelong sports enthusiast, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on May 4, 1931, in Willington, Connecticut, he was the beloved son of the late Mary (Gladzys) and John Kowalyshyn Sr.
John spent many years working at Stafford Ginger Ale before concluding his career with the Town of Stafford Public Works Department.
On April 12, 1952, John married the love of his life, Elinor Spusta with best friends Barry and Jackie Bradley by their sides. Together, they shared 64 wonderful years of marriage before her passing.
A proud and loyal member of the West Stafford Fire Department, John joined in 1952 and served faithfully for decades, including ten years as Fire Chief from 1979 to 1988. Among his proudest achievements was helping to build the pavilion at the firehouse alongside his close friends, Buddy Burke and Karl Gordon—a lasting testament to his deep commitment to service and community.
A passionate New York Yankees fan and enthusiastic supporter of UConn Men’s and Women’s Basketball, John rarely missed a game. His love of sports was rivaled only by his love for his family.
John is survived by his sons, John (Scott) Kowalyshyn and his wife Leigh, Shawn Kowalyshyn and his wife Kim, and his daughter-in-law Cheri Kowalyshyn. He was a proud grandfather to Jacob and his wife Brittany, Shawn and his fiancée Michelle, Ashley and her husband Dan, Luke and his partner Kathryn, and Kate and her husband Jimmy. He also leaves behind his cherished great-grandchildren: Grace, Isabella, Sophie, and baby Scarlett, expected to arrive in September.
John’s circle of love extended beyond family to dear friends, especially Rod MacDonald and his wife Pam, whose friendship meant so much to him in recent years. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and his beloved wife Elinor, John was predeceased by his son Keith Kowalyshyn, his grandson Brady Kowalyshyn, his sister Anna Furness, and his brothers Stephen and Lawrence Kowalyshyn.
John will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to others, his quirky sense of humor, and above all, the boundless love he had for his family, friends, and community.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025 from 9:00-11:00 A.M., with a funeral service to take place at 11:00 A.M., at Introvigne Funeral Home, Inc., 51 East Main St., Stafford Springs, CT. Burial will follow in West Stafford Cemetery, Stafford, CT. Memorial donations may be made to the West Stafford Fire Department, 144 West Stafford Rd., Stafford Springs, CT 06076. To leave a condolence online for the family, please visit: www.introvignefuneralhome.com
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