Ralph J. Szymczak

Ralph Joseph Szymczak, 81, of Mansfield, passed away on Friday Aug. 30, 2002 at Douglas Manor in Windham. He was born on May 7, 1921 in Webster, Mass. He was the son of the late Bernadette LaValle. As a veteran of World War 2, he served the Army Corps of Engineers. Mr. Szymczak was a Mansfield resident for over 46 years. He was employed by the Brand- Rex Co. in Willimantic from which he retired in 1983. While working for Brand-Rex, he was instrumental in creating new wire that is used in the cable and communications industry worldwide. Ralph was outgoing, enjoyed life and found humor in it, which made people feel special. He was devoted to his family. He was a communicant of St. Mary's Church in Coventry. He was an avid golfer and was a former member of the Willimantic Country Club. He was a member of the Willimantic Elks Lodge, the Gold Star Post VFW, and the Pulaski American Citizens Club. Ralph was predeceased by 2 brothers and 2 sisters. He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years Antoinette (Leta) Szymczak. He also leaves his caring son Ralph J. Szymczak Jr. and his wife Elizabeth of Natick, MA. and their two children Julia Szymczak who attends Brandeis University and Neil Ralph Szymczak who attends the U.S. Naval Academy. He also leaves his loving daughter Pauline Szymczak Guerrero and her husband Gerardo Guerrero Jr. of Bloomfield, a brother Bernard Symczak of Dudley, MA, a sister Shirley LaValle Maryyaneck of California and several nieces and nephews. His family will receive friends at the Potter Funeral Home 456 Jackson St. (Rte. 195) Willimantic on Monday from 2:00 to 4:00pm. There will be a gathering at the funeral home on Tuesday at 8:00am prior to the funeral procession to his 9:00am Funeral Mass at St. Mary's Church, 1600 Main St., Coventry. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, Windham. In lieu of flowers, his family suggests memorial donations to the Alzheimer's Assoc., Greater Connecticut Chapter, 96 Oak St. Hartford, Ct. 06106 or to St. Mary's Church, 1600 Main St. Coventry,Ct. 06238.