DR. WALTER DZIOKONSKI
Gardner - Dr. Walter R. Dziokonski, 77, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Monday, October 20, 2025. He is survived by his two daughters, Lisa Dziokonski and partner Scott Oliphant, and Krista Robichaud and wife Britt Casasanta; his beloved granddaughter Chloe Robichaud; sister, Karen Blodgett; brother, Brian Dziokonski and wife Clarice; generations of nieces and nephews, extended family and dear friends. He is predeceased by his former wife, Ann Dziokonski.
Son of the late Walter and Adela (Novak) Dziokonski, Walter was born and raised in Clinton. He graduated from St. Mary's High School, class of 1966, College of the Holy Cross, University of New Hampshire, and Case Western Reserve University, from where he obtained his bachelor's degree and two PhD's in Psychology respectively. In the midst of his academic accomplishments, Walter proudly served our nation as a commissioned officer in the US Navy, stationed aboard the USS Julius A. Furer until being honorably discharged.
Dr. Dziokonski, would return from military service to obtain his graduate degrees and begin his prestigious career as a clinical and forensic psychologist at various agencies and facilities as well as a private practice out of his home. His retirement followed a long-standing position as a staff psychologist at Westborough State Hospital. Dr. Dziokonski was a well-respected member of the American Psychologist Association and revered by his colleagues and patients alike.
Personally, Walter was a man of many hobbies and interests. A lifelong adventurer and accomplished outdoorsman, he cherished the many hiking excursions shared alongside his daughters, and possessed a great passion for mountain biking and the beauty of nature. Blessed with a brilliant mind, Walter was a voracious reader, lifelong learner, and a feared chess and poker opponent, who relished in games that were a challenge of intellect. From childhood, he amassed an impressive throwing knife collection and skill. He too, held a deep appreciation for the arts, which came to life through his paintings and drawings, where he expressed his unique perspective of the world around him. Walter also loved going to the movies and spent countless weekends there with his girls in their youth. Summer days were most enjoyed creating memories with his young daughters on the Rhode Island beaches of Scarborough and Narragansett, digging holes in the sand and riding waves on boogie boards. Known for always marching to the beat of his own drum, Walter will be missed for his ice cream wars with his granddaughter Chloe, remembered for his proud Polish heritage, affinity for lions, eccentric personality, extensive vocabulary, and above all, as a proud father and "GaGa."
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 2 until 4 p.m. in Philbin-Comeau Funeral Home, 176 Water St., Clinton. A Funeral Service will be celebrated in the funeral home at 11 a.m. on Monday, October 27, 2025, with burial to follow in St. John's Cemetery, Lancaster. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Dr. Walter R. Dziokonski to
Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741.
Online condolences may be placed at
www.philbincomeaufh.com.
Published by The Item from Oct. 22 to Oct. 24, 2025.