John R. Zahorsky

John R. "Dick", Zahorsky 96, of Franklin, formerly of Norwood and Bonita Springs, FL passed away on February 28th after a long and fulfilling life.

Dick was the devoted husband of 50 years to the late Jean A.(Krafick) Zahorsky. They were childhood sweethearts, both born in Bridgeport, CT and were wonderful parents to Karen A. Zahorsky of Carlisle, MA; Gary R. Zahorsky of Plainville, MA; and John (Jack) J. Zahorsky of Aptos, CA. Dick is also survived by Gary’s daughter, Lauren M. (Zahorsky) Taylor, husband, Robert and great grandson, Robert "Bobby" Taylor. Dick also left special close friends—all who will miss his infectious smile and large laugh.

Dick was the youngest of three sisters, who predeceased him and is survived by several nieces and nephews, all from Connecticut.

After graduating high school in Bridgeport, Dick served in the US Army during the Korean conflict and was honorably discharged. He graduated from Bridgeport Engineering Institute and then Northeastern University, Boston.

An engineer at his core, Dick was Chief Engineer of the Power Products Group at Crosby Valve & Gage Co in Wrentham, MA and retired after 35 years. During his employment, he received several USA and International Patents for pressure relief valve designs used in power plants across the globe. He was active member of many American Society of Mechanical Standards that were used to regulate product and performance.

He traveled the world extensively in his work and with his wife, relishing new cultures, discoveries and opportunities.

Dick was a member of American St John’s Lodge #8 AF&AM of Stratford CT for much of his life.

Dick will be lovingly remembered for his curious mind, his quick smile, his commitment to hard work, his delight in fixing things, his thrill of lake and river fishing, his sense of responsibility and discipline, his learning and enthusiasm for life. But most of all, Dick’s joy was his beautiful wife and children. “You only go this way once.”

A Funeral Service will be held in the Grace Episcopal Church, 150 Chapel Street, NORWOOD on Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at 11 AM. Interment will be private and at a later date. Funeral Arrangements are in the care of Gillooly Funeral Home, 126 Walpole Street, Norwood.

In Dick’s memory, expressions of sympathy are welcomed in the form of donations to the good work of Dana Farber: Friends of Dana Farber, 450 Brookline Ave., SW120, Boston, Mass. 02215 or see www.dana-farber.org.