WESTFIELD – John Thomas Stec, Sr., passed away peacefully on December 8th, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born May 12th, 1942, in Westfield, MA, son of the late John F. and Frances (Balcerzewski) Stec, where he was a lifelong resident. John (aka “Jack”) was a graduate of Westfield Vocational High School and Springfield Technical Community College. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps and went on to work at Pratt and Whitney before joining the Westfield Fire Department where he served for 26 years.
Jack was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend who loved hunting, fishing and boating. He was an avid automotive enthusiast and enjoyed buying and fixing cars that over the years included a 1938 Ford Coupe and a 1970 Ford F100, among many others. In 1995, Jack suffered a bilateral stroke that was debilitating. Despite the setback, he chose not to feel sorry for himself or allow the stroke to change his daily life. He simply adapted to his physical limitations with the help of his wife, family, and many loyal friends. Jack and his wife were able to travel around the country and spent many years enjoying time at the campground. He loved his children and delighted in the antics of his grandchildren. He was in his glory anytime he was with his family and was never shy about expressing his limitless love and pride in them and their accomplishments.
Jack is survived by his wife of 57 years, Patrica (Gibbs) Stec; his son John Stec, Jr. and wife Marianne; son Richard Stec and his wife Gina; sister-in-law Linda (Gibbs) Brittain; grandchildren, Colleen (Stec) McKibben (Ryan); Sarah Stec (Felix Chapdelaine) and Everett Stec; great-grandchildren Isaiah and Owen; nephews Jonathan and Brian Gibbs and their mother, AnnMarie. He was predeceased by his brothers-in-law, Robert Gibbs and Patrick Brittain.
Jack’s smile, his ability to light up a room, and his sense of humor will be deeply missed by his family and friends. His family is comforted to know that he is in heaven having some fun fishing with his friend and former firefighter, Tom Shea. The Stec family would like to extend gratitude to Holyoke Medical Center Hospice nurses as well as Aging at Home health aides (especially Greg and Donna) and nurse Debi for providing comfort care and support.
His relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Friday, December 27th, 2024, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Firtion Adams Funeral Home in Westfield, MA. A funeral Mass, followed by Christian burial will be held at St. Mary’s Church in Westfield on Saturday, December 28th, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children. Firtionadams.com
