John T. “Jack” Buczek, Jr, 65, of New Milford, died unexpectedly November 15, at home. He was born in New Milford, December 2, 1947, and was the son of Catherine Buczek and the late John Buczek.

Mr Buczek will be deeply missed by his wife and partner Sherry, and their two children, Christopher Buczek of Sandy Hook and Rebecca Gerrish, and husband Kennith, of New Milford; and his mother. He also leaves his first grandchild, McKenzie, whom he cherished and was so looking forward to buying her first fishing pole. His sisters and brother-in-laws, Pat and Dave Nordling and Bernadette and Tom Foley, plus many nieces and nephews, also survive Mr Buczek.

He lived in New Milford his entire life, except during his military tour. He proudly served in Vietnam during 1968 and 1969 in the 101st Airborne Division. During his time in service he was awarded the Bronze Star, National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, Parachute Badge, Army Commendation Medal, and Air Medal.

A toolmaker by trade, Mr Buczek started his successful construction business more than 30 years ago. He was a master craftsman and loved the challenge of each job.

He had a passion for the outdoors and loved being in the woods. He immensely enjoyed hunting and fishing. In his early years, he was an avid bowler and a Boy Scout leader for Troop 58. He took up golf and was a former member of the Newtown Country Club and an active member of Heritage Village Country Club and Gator Trace Country Club, where he and his wife spent many wonderful times with their golfing friends. Jack gave unselfishly of his time to volunteer organizations. He was a longtime member of the New Milford Lions Club, managing director of Harrybrooke Park, and lifetime member of the New Milford VFW. He was looking forward to retirement and spending time at his Florida home where he vacationed with his family and friends.

Calling hours will be held from 5 to 8 pm, Thursday, November 21, at Lillis Funeral Home, 58 Bridge Street, New Milford, with a memorial service on Friday, November 22, at 11 am, at the St John’s Episcopal Church on the Green, in New Milford.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the New Milford Lions Club, PO Box 894, New Milford CT 06776; Harrybrooke Park, 10 Franks Lane, PO Box 364, New Milford CT 06776; or the Veterans of Foreign Wars, 11 Avery Road, New Milford CT 06776.