Walter Ochankowski

Walter Edward Ochankowski, 86, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2024, in New Britain, CT, following a courageous battle with cancer. Born on January 13, 1938, he graduated from New Britain Senior High School and furthered his education at E.C. Goodwin Technical School, where he learned the machinist trade. He honorably served in the US Army from 1961 to 1963, stationed in Korea. After the military, he started his career at his Uncle Stanley's machine shop, American Tool, in Plainville, CT. After decades of employment, he joined B&L Machine also in Plainville, where he retired in 2006.
Over the years, Walter exemplified the meaning of "doing the right thing," always putting others first. He served as a devoted family caregiver for many years, ensuring the well-being of his parents, aunts, uncles, and nephew. As a life member of the New Britain Elks Lodge, Walter volunteered on the waiter's committee and supported several charitable initiatives. He was a proud member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and a lifetime member of the New Britain YMCA, where he enjoyed spending time nearly every day. He was an avid enthusiast of racquetball, fishing, boating, snowmobiling, riding his motorcycle, auto racing, trips to Daytona, camping, and playing setback. As a lifelong resident of New Britain, his deep knowledge of the city's history made for great stories among his family and friends. His hobbies reflected his love for adventure and camaraderie. Walter was known for his generous, caring, compassionate, fun-loving, and easygoing spirit. He will be remembered for his happy-go-lucky and positive outlook on life, even through his recent health challenges.
Walter leaves behind his loving nieces Cindy Ochankowski and Sheri Naud (James), and grandniece Nicole Rainville (Robert), his lifelong friends Jack and Sandra Fuoco, and his "nephews" Glenn, David, and Marc Fuoco and their children. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rose T. (Gmeindl) and Walter S. Ochankowski; brothers Leonard W. and Donald J. Ochankowski; and nephew Donald J. Ochankowski, Jr.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute, Dr. Wylie Hosmer and staff, Euro Homecare, and Bart for their unwavering kindness and compassion towards Walter.
A graveside committal service with military honors will be held on October 18th at 2:45 p.m. at St. Mary's Cemetery in New Britain. Following this, Walter's life will be celebrated at his favorite place, The New Britain Elks Lodge, from 4 - 7 p.m. Friends and family are warmly invited to join this event. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Walter's name may be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation https://glioblastomafoundation.org. To share a condolence with her family please visit us at www.duksa.net.