Teddy Cioper

Teddy Cioper, 94, of Acushnet, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, January 3, 2025. He was the beloved husband of the late Madeleine A. (Violet) Cioper. His unexpected passing occurred the morning of their daughter Kathleen Gioiosa’s burial, a poignant and heartbreaking moment for the family.

Born in Acushnet, a son of the late Michael and Michalina (Rojek) Cioper. Teddy was a lifelong resident of the town he cherished. He graduated from New Bedford Vocational High School and proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War.

Teddy’s dedication to his community was unmatched. He was a fixture in New Bedford for over 60 years as the owner and operator of Ted’s Service Station. His business became a cornerstone of local life, serving generations of families. Beyond his work, Teddy was deeply involved in civic affairs. He served as an Acushnet Selectmen, on the Acushnet Conservation Committee and represented the town on the Southeast Regional Transit Authority.

Teddy’s leadership extended to the Bristol County Budget Committee and the Southeast Regional Planning Board. He was also a regular and engaged participant in town meetings, always advocating for the best interests of Acushnet’s residents.

Teddy’s passion for public service didn’t stop at the local level. He was a devoted member of several organizations, including the American Legion Post 265, VFW Tuttle Post, and the Acushnet Lions Club, where he served as Past King Lion. He was also a Past President of the Independent Garage Owner’s Association. His commitment to community service and his fellow veterans was a hallmark of his life.

A proud Polish-American, Teddy was a founding member of the Friends of Poland, helping to send ambulances to his homeland. He was also a member of the Polish Veterans and cherished his heritage throughout his life. He hosted the Friends of Poland Annual Polish Picnic.

Teddy is survived by his children, Teddy M. Cioper and his wife Jaye, Christine Hacking and her husband George, Melanie Cioper, the late Kathleen Gioiosa and son-in-law, Mark Gioiosa; seven grandchildren, Myles Hacking, Teddy Cioper and his wife Jillian, Tyler Hacking, Alexandra Vaynerchuk and her husband AJ, Noah, Luke and Jake Gioiosa; eight great-grandchildren; a sister, Frances Mills; a sister-in-law, Beverly Cioper; and several nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Alfred Cioper and brother-in-law of the late Roland Mills.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, January 10, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Rock Funeral Home, 1285 Ashley Blvd, New Bedford.

Teddy’s funeral will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Rock Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Acushnet Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor may be made to either Lions Eye Research, 43 Stewart Terrace, Belmont, MA 02478, or online at www.mlerfi.com or Roza Czacka Center for the Blind via laski.edu.pl. For directions and to leave an online tribute, please visit www.rock-funeralhome.com

Teddy's legacy of service, kindness, and community will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.