John Vincent Gambeski

John (Jack) Vincent Gambeski, age 88, beloved husband of almost 50 years to the late Arline Gambeski, peacefully departed on April 9, 2022. He was the son of the late Vincent and Anna (Gayeski) Gambeski born in Flushing New York on November 26, 1933. Jack is survived by his daughter Diana Wawrzynowicz, son-in-law Paul Wawrzynowicz, son Steven Gambeski, daughter Noreen Gambeski, daughter Judy Dewey and son-in-law Bill Dewey; grandsons Vincent Wawrzynowicz, Joshua Gambeski and granddaughter Lauren Dewey. Alyssa Gambeski, his first grandchild, was in heaven to greet him.

At the age of 8, John settled in Norwich, CT. After graduating from NFA he enlisted in the Navy. He graduated from Lyndon Teachers College in Lyndon Vermont with a Bachelor’s Degree in education and received his Master’s Degree from Eastern State University. For 35 years he was employed by the Groton Public School system teaching in the classroom for thirteen years and twenty-two years as an elementary school administrator. John dedicated his life to enhancing the educational experience for children, teachers and staff. In his career he touched many lives and made lifelong friends.

In college he met the love of his life and best friend Arline Merrow. It was then, their forever journey began. They married on August 27, 1960 and started their lives in Norwich. They were blessed to have four children and later on four grandchildren. It is true when they say the home is where the heart is, because everyone that entered his home felt welcomed, loved, accepted and appreciated. If John had any shortcomings in his life, it would be his sweet tooth. On any given day there would be some form of confectionery delights for him to enjoy. John was very particular about his clothing. All outfits needed to match from socks to jacket and Arline would sometimes have to wait for him to get ready.

John was gifted in so many different ways. He gave selflessly to the church and community. He was a parishioner of Sacred Heart Church of Norwichtown. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, traveling, watching the wildlife outside his living room window and playing pinochle at EGPFD and Thamesville AC.

His children and beloved niece Mary Gaudreau all had the honor and privilege to care for him as his health declined. Mary had a special place in his heart for the wonderful visits they shared reminiscing, their shared love for Hank’s hotdogs, and keeping the freezer stocked with her special twice-baked potatoes. The family would like to express extreme gratitude to Davita Dialysis, both the Windham and Norwich locations, and Dr. Kabadi for the wonderful care they provided to him.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Please visit www.cummings-gagnefh.com for full obituary and to leave condolences or share a memory.

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