Walter J. Markiewicz

Walter J. Markiewicz, 87, of Simsbury entered into eternal life on November 14, 2017 at St. Francis Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in New Britain, the son of Jan and Eva (Nieckarz) Markiewicz. Walter graduated from New Britain High School, then served 4 years in the Air Force Teaching Radar Essentials during the Korean War. After the service, he would earn a Bachelor's degree from CCSU while playing both football and baseball, and a Masters from the University of Hartford. He was a firm believer in the value of higher learning and would devote his professional life to affording opportunities for education to all. He would start his career as a teacher and coach, then in 1965 he became one of the founders of Greater Hartford Community College (now Capital CC). He would serve in a variety of roles at the College, retiring as College Provost in 1989. Walter considered the establishment and subsequent flourishing of GHCC the highlight of his professional career. The GHCC community would recognize his years of service with the dedication of the Walter J. Markiewicz Community Room at the College in 1989. He was just as devoted to his family, his greatest personal joy was found in watching his children succeed in their varied careers. He is survived by his family. His wife of 30 years, Judith, daughter Pam Markiewicz and husband Joe Daughtry, son Jon Markiewicz and his wife Helen, son Eric Markiewicz and his wife Linda, and daughter Milissa Markiewicz. He is additionally survived by his grandson Joshua and granddaughter Teresa, as well as his nephews Richard and his wife Marj, and Robert, along with a niece Linda. Walter was predeceased by his first wife and the mother of his children Eleanor, and by his brothers, Stanley and Casimer and sister Nell. He was a gifted athlete and avid sports fan, enjoying coaching his kids and watching the Yankees and UCONN women. His faith will be celebrated in a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, December 1, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter Claver Church, 47 Pleasant St. West Hartford. Burial with military honors will follow in Fairview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Walter's Memory to the Simsbury Volunteer Ambulance Assoc. 64 West St. Simsbury, CT 06070. Directions and online expressions of sympathy may be made at www.molloyfuneralhome.com