Darla,
Two short years (1983-1985) of serving together in the 25th Infantry Division led to our 34 year friendship. Sandy and I will miss John. Our prayers are with you.

It was my honor to serve with John in Germany in the early nineties. He was a tough, fair man who led by example, and demonstrated daily what every NCO should be. To Darla and Darla, My sincerest condolences and  the hope that you find peace.

John Gacek was the finest man I ever had the pleasure to know and serve with. Not only was he a great friend, he was also a great mentor. He and Darla looked after this young Lieutenant and even introduced me to my wife of 25 years. We had so many great times and laughs, it is hard to single out one as my favorite. It didn't matter what the situation was, if you saw John get a little twinkle in his eye, and his lip start to curl a little, you knew something funny was going to happen! I will miss his wisdom and his wit, and pray the good Lord rewards him for his passion, his service, and his love for his family, soldiers, and friends. Thank you John Gacek for all you did for us and God bless the Gacek family.

I liked the world better with John in it. I will miss his wonderful sense of humor, and his insight. He was a good friend and he will be greatly missed.

God Bless All. You have been good friends and neighbors. You have my prayers

John had a gift for serving as a mentor to several young Army officers.  He did it with such class, we didn't even realize we were being mentored at the time.  He was never "in your face" about it, or "listen up, I'm older and wiser than you"- he was much more subtle. Often the advice in leadership and human nature came during lunch in the dining facility, or over beer and chili at his house on a Friday night.  He had a way of making you feel better about yourself after you met with him.  As we inevitably face the deaths of our comrades, we ask ourselves, "when I die, will my life had made an impact?" John's family knows that his influence went well beyond those who were legally related to him- the world was a better place with him in it and we are all better for having known him.

I don't know what to say, and at the same time there aren't enough words. John was a pleasure to work with and he was highly respected by other railroaders. When the phone rang in the middle of the night it was always a relief to hear the name "John Gacek" because you'd know that your were going to have a good trip even on a rotten train. John loved to talk about his family and he loved to tell stories. We had a lot of laughs over the years. It's a shame John's story had to end so soon. He will be missed.

John and I worked together on the railroad many times. He was truly one of the best. The thing I knew most about John was how much he loved his family. No matter how bad of a day we would be having, John would bring up a story about a past family vacation or his granddaughter and you could see the happiness in his eyes. He was the type of man others strive to become.  

Thank you for your friendship, John.

I am at a loss for words. When I saw the posting of your dad's passing, I was heartbroken, Darla. It's been years since you guys left Washington state, but I always hoped our paths would one day cross again and we could reminisce of good times. Your dad was a kind, gentle man. He was always smiling and full of jokes and laughter. I can still hear him and my dad sharing army stories and making long distance phone calls to our loved ones in Hawai'i lol.  Those two were so funny. I recall countless family gatherings and small dinners shared with you guys. And my love for the Beach Boys is all because of your dad. I was saddened when you guys left and I'm saddened that he's not here now. I love you my cousin, Darla. Sending my love and strength to you and your mom. Love and miss your dad always...until we meet again

To mama Darla and daughter Darla,  prayers and hugs go out to you both in this terribly sad time.  We were all blessed to be part of his life.  He had a love for family and respect for others who served in the armed forces.  He was a great man who will be remembered fondly by many!  Love you guys

I hired out with John almost 19yrs ago...he was smiling and fun to be around every day...cant believe we will not have you my friend. My heart broke when I heard you had left us. Sincere condolences and sypathy to family and friends.

You will be missed John! One of my all time favorite people to work with, always made the trip fun and made you laugh! Prayers go out to the family.

I always enjoyed when you guys would come to visit. We still can't believe you are gone. Wish we were closer. You are in my prayers.

Darla, I only met your dad once when we were in junior high, but I know how very much he meant to you. Know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

I had the honor of working with John during our days at BNSF . A wonderful man , great Condr. , most of all I will miss his humor . The whistle has blown he arrives at the final terminal, god speed John I will forever miss you we will again be reunited ..

Dearest Darla,
I am so sorry about the sudden, unexpected loss of your father. 
My heart aches for you. Sending prayers for you and your family. 
Forever connected Nick's Mom,
Susan Markowitz

OBITUARY

John Edward Gacek

May 12, 1947 – February 4, 2017

Church-Archer-Pasley Funeral Home

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