Charles Kukucka, 86, of Andover, CT, passed away early on January 27, 2010, at home after a long illness surrounded by his loving family. He was born on April 24, 1923, in Andover, son of the late Stefan and Zuzanna Kukucka. Charles was a veteran of World War II having served in the U. S. Army, enlisting voluntarily underage. He was a carpenter by trade, retiring from Pelletier Builders. Charles loved spending time with his animals and family on the family farm. His love for animals was instilled in his children and grandchildren. He so enjoyed walking his pastures with his cows and faithful dogs beside him, before his illness took that from him. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Charles is survived by Lucille, his loving wife of 60 years. In addition, he leaves his children: Charles Henry Kukucka of Andover, , Marie Meixell of Vernon , Diane Kukucka of Windham and Carol Kukucka of Andover. He also leaves his five grandchildren that he so loved: Dale Kukucka of Southbury/Andover, Wayne Kukucka and his wife, Suzie, of West Hartford. Gail and Zachary Milliord of Andover and Marlie Meixell of Vernon. He also leaves his brother, Andrew Kukucka and his wife Grace of Andover and his sister, Sue Lebejko and her husband Mike of Norwich; numerous nieces and nephews, extended family members and special friends. Charles was predeceased by his brothers, Stefan, John and sister, Anna, and numerous brothers and sisters-in-law. His family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday Jan. 30th between 10:00 and 11:00am with services beginning at 11:00am at Potter Funeral Home 456 Jackson St. (Rte. 195) Willimantic. Interment will then follow in Townsend Cemetery, Andover. For online memorial guestbook and directions to the funeral home, please visit
www.potterfuneralhome.com
. The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the VNA East Hospice of Mansfield Center for their compassionate care of Charles. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to VNA East Hospice, 34 Ledgebrook Dr., Mansfield Center, CT 06250 or Andover Volunteer Fire Dept., School Rd., Andover, CT 06232.