John William Hlywa

Palm City - John William Hlywa, 60, of Palm City, Florida, passed away on February 8, 2024. Born on July 30, 1963, in Derby, Connecticut, John was a gentle soul with a deep love for animals, including his several cats and dogs, all adopted from the humane society. John had a passion for the outdoors from an early age, and particularly enjoyed being on the water. This affinity prompted him to join the Navy; and resulted in a life-long love of fishing and boating, both of which brought him immense happiness.

John grew up in Connecticut and participated in swimming and diving from a young age, which continued throughout high school. As a result of his dedication and hard work he was selected to the All-County dive team his senior year at Trumbull High School.

After graduating in 1981, John enlisted in the United States Navy, serving in active duty from 1981 through 1989. John was especially proud of being part of the search and rescue unit, in large part because it allowed him to jump out of helicopters. John served on the Dwight D. Eisenhower throughout the mid 1980's, during a number of altercations with Lebanon, and the Iran-Iraq War. In addition to the Middle East, his tour took him many other places around the world, including Normandy, France for the celebration of the 40th anniversary of D-Day and England where Queen Elizabeth II, greeted the crew.

Due to his proclivity with technology, John began working in tactical aspects of nuclear submarine and missile deployment. In the late 1980's he was stationed in South Australia, where he remained for several years, gaining dual citizenship before returning to the United States. John continued serving the Country by joining the Navy Reserve, until his retirement in 2008. During his service, John earned a number of Commendations and there is no doubt that his military associations shaped his character and instilled in him a sense of discipline and camaraderie.

A skilled handyman, John had an uncanny ability to fix just about anything, from repairing household appliances, to rebuilding cars, his expertise was admired by all who knew him. John's abilities led him into the field of internet technology and after leaving the Navy, John entered the private sector focusing his career as a cyber-security expert until his death.

In his free time, John enjoyed fishing, boating and shooting. These activities allowed him to connect with nature and find solace. John was also an excellent cook and enjoyed creating delicious meals for his friends and family.

John leaves behind his beloved wife, Debra Nolan-Hlywa; his daughter, Jocelyn Hlywa; his mother, June Ann Hlywa (nee LeVasseur); his sisters, Janice [Joe] Lombardo (nee Hlywa); June Peck (nee Hlywa); and Jean Gorton (nee Hlywa); his nieces, Carly Lombardo and Taylor Peck; and his nephew, Joseph Lombardo. He was preceded in death by his father, William Francis Hlywa, and his brother-in-law, Ronald Gorton.

A private Celebration of Life is being scheduled to honor John's memory. Contributions in his name can be made to the Wounded Warriors Project or the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast, organizations that were close to his heart.

John William Hlywa will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his kind and adventurous spirit live on in our hearts.