John Edward Mazejka

It is with a heavy heart that we acknowledge the passing of John Edward Mazejka on January 10, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was a 1968 graduate of Gardner High School and a lifelong area resident. He leaves his beloved wife of 23 years, Irene (Turcotte) Mazejka; children from his first marriage, Amy Libby and Katy Mazejka (Daniel Espinal); stepchildren Bobbie-Lee Carr; Chad Cwartkowski; and Bonnie Nichols (Keith) and eight grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Steven (Diane); and his Aunt Jane (Toots) Mazejka. John is predeceased by his cherished parents, Leon and Rita; brother, Leon Jr.; sister, Janice Carter; and son-in-law, Joseph Libby.

John was a member of the National Guard following high school and owned the Gardner Country Store on Main Street for many years. He enjoyed baseball and bowling in his youth, playing on community teams well into his 20s, and coaching his daughters in little league. He reveled in joining his girls on area rollercoasters or down a freshly packed hill of snow during their years in Westminster. John later attended Fitchburg State College, receiving a bachelor’s degree in marketing and becoming a professional in the printing industry. He was also a friendly face behind the bar in the Gardner social scene for many years.

John most enjoyed local adventures with Irene, with many friend-filled camping excursions and spur-of-the-moment day trips across New England that were a hallmark of their early marriage. They also enjoyed frequent trips to Florida and Maine to visit family. He was a hobbied woodworker and remodeler, spending time updating their home indoors and out. Many will remember him as a fierce and strategic competitor in various card games and an avid collector and discoverer of treasured belongings while “yard-hopping” and walking Rietta Ranch. His grandchildren brought him great joy playing cards and LCR by the pool, spoiling them sweetly at holiday gatherings and proudly sharing Gardner-style fun on their summer visits.

John was a long-standing member and employee of the PACC, carrying forward a generation of pride, commitment, and camaraderie at the Polish club, where he enjoyed many great friendships over the years, playing Pitch and attending special events. He was also a member of the Gardner MET Club.

John carried a quiet and gentle demeanor sprinkled with occasional sarcasm to get a laugh. In his later years, he had a nostalgic way for the simpler things in life, enjoying quiet afternoons in the backyard barbequing his favorite foods and playing Gin, chit-chatting and reminiscing with his Aunt Toots, and spending evenings watching Jeopardy and movies with Irene and the “boys,” especially Coke. He was a devoted and loyal son, a deeply loving and dedicated husband to Irene, and a proud father and grandfather. 

Per John’s request, no immediate formal services will be held. However, a Celebration of Life will be held at the P.A.C.C. on January 27th beginning at 1pm.

To leave an online condolence please visit, www.mackfamilyfh.com

Mack Funeral Home, 105 Central Street, Gardner, MA 01440 has been entrusted with Edward's care. 

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, and Melissa A. McQuaid, funeral directors.