John Kwaitkowski

John Kwaitkowski obituary, Delray Beach, FL

John Kwaitkowski

John Kwaitkowski Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Gary Panoch Funeral Home & Cremations on Feb. 11, 2026.
John Kwiatkowski passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the age of 79.

John was the eldest of six children born to John and Elizabeth Kwiatkowski. Raised in Brooklyn, New York, he carried his strong roots and work ethic with him throughout his life before retiring to Delray Beach, Florida.

John proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and went on to dedicate nearly 30 years of distinguished service to the New York City Fire Department. He served in Brooklyn at Firehouse 201, whose motto, "Can Do," perfectly reflected the way John lived his life. Known as a fearless and determined firefighter, he earned the respect of his brothers and sisters in the FDNY. Following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, John stood shoulder to shoulder with his fellow firefighters, assisting in the recovery efforts during one of the most heartbreaking chapters in our nation's history.

John had a larger-than-life personality and could light up any room with his humor and quick wit. He loved gathering for happy hours with family and friends, spending time on the golf course, and traveling the world with his beloved wife of 20 years, Marie. Together they built a life filled with laughter, adventure, and love.

He was a devoted father to Sean, Tara, and Timothy. Above all else, the light of his life was his grandson, John, who brought him endless pride and joy.

John will be forever loved, always missed, and never forgotten.

Services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in memory of John Kwiatkowski.

Professional arrangements are entrusted to:
Gary Panoch Funeral Home
6140 N. Federal Highway
Boca Raton, FL 33487
561-997-8580
www.gpanochfunerals.com

easyonlinecremations.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in memory of John Kwiatkowski.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support John's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor John Kwaitkowski's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign John Kwaitkowski's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?