John Francis Czapla Jr.

John “Jack” Francis Czapla, Jr., born August 27, 1946, in Hartford, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026, at his home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Jack was the beloved son of the late John Czapla, Sr., and Felicia (Cybulski) Czapla, and was predeceased by his longtime partner, James Harrison Lassiter.

Jack leaves behind his devoted sister, Beverly Czapla Hawkins, and her husband James of the Villages, Florida; his nephew James Hawkins Jr. and his wife Maria, along with their son Cameron, of Manchester, New Hampshire; and his niece Heather Hawkins Bradford and her husband Deon, and their sons Alexander and Xavier, of Raleigh, North Carolina.

A proud Veteran of the Connecticut Army National Guard, Jack carried a deep sense of duty and loyalty throughout his life. He built a long and dedicated career with Northeast Utilities (Eversource) before retiring to Florida, where he enjoyed the sunshine, friendships, and the peaceful rhythm of coastal living. Jack had a love for animals and an affinity for Polka music and cars, all of which were a central part of his life.

Jack will be remembered as a talented “natural engineer,” who could fix anything. He had a loving heart, generous spirit, and quiet strength that he offered to all who knew him. His warmth, humor, and kindness touched many lives, and his absence will be deeply felt by family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to share in his journey.

May his memory be a blessing, and may he rest in peace.

It can be a great comfort to a grieving person or family to hear that others thought highly of their loved one, too. If you knew and admired John be, sure to let the family know by writing a few words in the "Memory" section of his obituary on the Kraeer - Fairchild Funeral Home website. www.KraeerFairchild.com.