Edward J. Tracz, age 63, entered into eternal rest on February 13, 2011 at home, surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Henrietta (Catlin) Tracz and was a proud lifelong member of the Derby community.
Edward was born on August 21, 1947 in Derby, son of Mary Ann (Pczonka) Tracz and the late Bronislaus Tracz. He had the distinction of serving his country as a Staff Sargeant with the US Airforce during the Vietnam War and received a Distinguished Flying Cross Medal for his valiant service as a member of AC-130 “Spectre” Gunship. Edward was a Police Officer for the City of Derby until his retirement in 1995. He was a dedicated, 40-year member of the Paugassett Hook and Ladder Company and was an inaugural recipient of the Meritorious Service Award given by the City of Derby Fire Department.
Edward is the devoted father of Michael Tracz and his wife Julie, and Jennifer Oliwa and her husband Louis; the loving grandfather of Louis, Christopher, Matthew and Ryleigh Oliwa, Natalie, and Calleigh, Lilyanna Tracz. He is also survived by his brother, William Tracz.
A Mass of Christian Burial took place Friday at St. Michael Church in Derby followed by a burial at St. Michael Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, 538 Preston Ave. Ste 1, Meriden, CT 06450.
