John A. Cesarek, 68, passed away on March 19, 2016, surrounded by his loving family at the VA Hospital in West Haven, CT, from complications incurred by a spinal cord injury sustained in 2008.
John was born in Derby on January 14, 1948, son of the late Stanley and Sophie Cesarek. John was predeceased by his loving and devoted wife of 40 years, Maria Cesarek.
He is survived by son, John S. Cesarek and his wife Jennifer Warren of Redwood City, CA; daughter, Melanie Caldwell and her husband Jeffrey of Seymour. He is survived by two grandchildren, Kyle and Kadin Caldwell.
As a veteran of the Vietnam War, John served in the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) as a helicopter electronics specialist. He earned distinguished medals during his service, including: National Defense Service, Good Conduct, Vietnam Service, and Gallantry Cross with Palm. Upon returning from Vietnam, John completed his apprenticeship at The Farrel Corporation in Ansonia and spent the next 20 years working as pattern maker.
In his retirement, John enjoyed time woodworking, gardening and carpentry. He was a master at working with his hands and his craftsmanship was unparalleled. He was an active member of the Catholic War Veterans St. Michael’s Post 1562. He loved music and was a devoted fan of Elvis Presley. He enjoyed sports, particularly baseball, and was a diehard fan of the New York Mets.
Friends may call on Tuesday from 4 to 7 pm at the Edward F. Adzima Funeral Home, 253 Elizabeth St. Derby. His funeral procession will leave the funeral home on Wednesday at 9:15 am for a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Joseph Church, 32 Jewett St. Ansonia. His burial with full military honors will follow in Mt. St. Peter Cemetery, Derby.
Memorial contributions may be made in John’s memory to the VA Connecticut Healthcare System, http://www.connecticut.va.gov/giving.
Online condolences may be sent to John’s family by visiting www.adzimafh.com.
