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Albert Wojtcuk Obituary
Albert was born in 1931 in Jewett City. He attended St. Mary's School in Jewett City, Griswold High School, Willimantic Teachers State College (Eastern Connecticut State University) B.S., Wesleyan University M.A.L.S., University of Connecticut, Sixth Year Diploma and Ph.D. He received numerous educational honors, but the three that had the largest impact on him were the Fulbright-Hayes Fellowships he was granted from Yale University to Poland, and the one with the most profound impact on him was to Ghana.
Albert started his lifelong calling in 1954 at the Lovell School in New Haven, teaching 3rd grade. Following that, in 1956, while serving in the U.S. Navy stationed in Key West, he taught 7th grade at the Memorial Junior High School. In 1957, Albert started his devotion to three generations of children in Taftville at Wequonnoc School as a teacher for 7th and 8th grade; from 1960 to 1962 he was a Teaching Principal and in 1962 became the 1st Supervising Principal of the New Wequonnoc School. He served at this position until his retirement at the end of the 2007 school year, earning the loving title, "Father of Wequonnoc." When the children of his school would win one of the citywide academic contests, his face would show how much pride and joy he had for his students. His philosophy: no matter the child's family background or their economic situation, "If you have happy kids, they will learn." This was proven to be true when in 1998, Wequonnoc School became the first school in the City of Norwich to earn the national Title 1 Distinguished School Award. This award he attributed to the fact he had "The Best Teachers in the City."
Albert was very generous with his time with many charitable, religious and civic groups and organizations. He made the world a better place to live in. This was also true with his love of flowers. If you knew him, you would know he had a green thumb. The summers at Groton Long Point will not be as colorful without him.
He is survived by his loving children and their families, Barry J. Wojtcuk and his wife, Kathleen, of Norwich and their daughter, Susan, of New York City; Christopher J. Wojtcuk and his wife, Robin, of Lisbon, and their son, Albert, of Lisbon, their daughter, Anne and her husband, Connor Jones, of San Diego, Calif.; Robin J. Kostelos and her companion, Michael Creaturo, of Taftville and her sons, James and William of Taftville; Adam J. Wojtcuk and his wife, Robin, of Norwich and their daughters, Abigail and her husband, Thomas Lalor, of Groton, and Lexie of Greenville, N.C. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy Wildowsky of Brooklyn, and sister-in-law, Jeanne Barry R.S.M. of East Greenwich, R.I., and numerous extended family members. He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Gertrude (Lewinski) Wojtcuk, his wife, Therese (Barry) Wojtcuk, and his siblings, Vina Dudek, Janet F. Wagner, Frank J. Wojtcuk, Cecilia A. Bednarz, Felix Winters, Stanley Wojtcuk and Alice D'Andria. There were also three young siblings, John, Helen and Stanley, who predeceased him.
In keeping with Albert's wishes, there will be no calling hours. A Celebration of Albert's life with a Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 25, at Sacred Heart Church, Taftville, across from Wequonnoc School. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.
The Guillot Funeral Home in Taftville is handling the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to Rev. Dr. Matthias Mornah of St. Victor's Major Seminary, Ghana, West Africa; Care of Sacred Heart Church, P.O. Box 208, Taftville, CT 06380.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Albert Wojtcuk
Sponsored by Guillot Funeral Home.
Leon Field
March 15, 2024
One of the finest gentleman I have ever met, and a terrific neighbor.
Bobby Bissell
October 1, 2023
I knew Albert from What quanted elementary school in Taftville ct he was tough but very nice man Rest in peace DR wojtcuk youll be missed by many
candace j morse
March 15, 2022
In remembering Albert, it was his compassion for not only the students who walked through his doors at Wequonnoc, but his love of what was good for the whole community in which he loved. I will always have the feeling that I was fortunate to have worked for one of the greatest! Thank you Albert for your patience and guiding hand and compassion for students and teachers. He truly showed us the way and made a great impact upon me and the students I taught.
candace morse
April 22, 2020
I am so sorry for your loss to the Wojtcuk family. I want you to know that he was a great Principal that I ever had the pleasure of working for. He truly cared for his staff and the students at Wequonnoc. His kindness and the way he encouraged the students as well as myself as a teacher there, made a lasting impression on me. He truly was a great Principal and taught me alot about being a better teacher. I will always remember at the end of the school year his favorite song he played, which was What a Wonderful World. Thank you Albert, It truly was a wonderful world because you were there for us! I will miss you.
Candace Morse Special Ed Teacher
Barbie Gagnon-Ashmore
March 15, 2019
When I was in second grade he was the principal and he was so kind he drove me home when I got so sick in class. Rest In Peace I always remembered your kindness.
Shari Fury
August 7, 2017
As I was searching for Dr. Wojtcuk's contact information to advise him of my mother's passing I found this instead. I'm heartbroken for his family and for myself. Dr. Wojtcuk was my principal at Wequonnoc Elementary from 1969 to about 1972 when we moved to New Orleans. He took an an interest in me as a student and kept in touch with me all these years. I have the photo cards of his family which I cherish. Anyway,we moved a lot bc Dad was in the Navy but Dr. Wojtcuk kept up with us! I hadn't kept in touch these past few years because I've been helping mom. I'm am so sorry to the Wojtcuk family. He loved you all so much. He had a huge heart. Sadly, Shari M. Fury
LeeAnn Pepin
March 28, 2017
My condolences the family of Dr. Wojtcuk. As a student in the 70's we both loved and feared Dr. Wojtcuk. He was always in view, not one to sit behind the desk for long. When our teacher was out ill he came in and had us make cards for her with lilacs. I believe, showing us the easy way to draw them. It was really sweet. And when we sent our substitute home in tear and he had to teach our class it was evident how unhappy he was at out behavior.
Then, as I returned to Taftville briefly my oldest son attended kindergarten at Wequonnoc. I was able to see just how deep his caring was as he addressed some issues I was having. I was thrilled to see that he evolved with the times and really loved what he did.
He will truly be missed.
Janine Blanchet
March 27, 2017
I would like to offer my condolences to the family of a very dear and special man. Albert was a navy buddy of my late husband Lou Blanchet. They were stationed in Key West at the same time and became good friends. Back in July of 1956 I was visiting my sister who lived and worked at the Naval Base and I was fortunate to meet Lou since he was working for my sister's room mate. Lou was stumped as to how to arrange a date with me since he was a lowly sailor and my sister and her roommate were officers. Albert and your dear mother came to the rescue. They invited us both for dinner at their home and then afterwards, loaned Lou their car so he could take me dancing. We were married in September 1957 and we celebrated 58 years together until Lou passed away last April. We had a long and loving marriage and were blessed with 7 children, 12 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. We always credited Albert for the part he played.
We kept in touch over the years with Christmas cards and a few visits, us traveling up to Taftville and Groton Long Point with our then young children and your Mom and Dad coming to visit us in New Jersey. My daughter remembered your Dad taking her and a bunch of kids out on his little sailboat. The most recent visit was just your Dad and either Barry or Adam on their way to visit a granddaughter at Liberty University in Virginia. After Lou died, Albert called me several times and sent several loving and encouraging notes. Our last conversation was in January when he told me of his diagnosis and his impending treatment.
Albert and Lou shared a warm friendship in Key West, a strong love for their families, dedication to the children they both touched in education and a committed faith in God and the Church. Although we will miss them, they are now celebrating and enjoying perfection together with each other and all their loved ones.
Laurie "Godere" Velidow
March 25, 2017
As a former student of Wequonnoc school I was saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Wojtcuk. I remember him being a kind and very approachable principle. I'd like to extend my condolences to his family and friends. May he Rest In Peace with his dear wife.
Trish Malchman
March 25, 2017
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of your father. Dr. Wojtcuk was one of two principals I worked for in the Norwich Public Schools in the 1990's. Both he and Mr. Gelmini were not only educational leaders but wonderful mentors. Dr. Wojtcuk always took the time to stop and speak with his staff and connect on a personal level. Years have passed since I worked for him but each time we met he would greet me with a fatherly hug and genuine concern as to where my life's journey had taken me.
His great faith and his kindness to all people will be remembered. May he rest in heavenly peace.
John Cotter Jr
March 25, 2017
Some of the first words I can clearly remember hearing spoken were Dr. Wojtchuk's "I'm very surprised to see you here John" when some kindergarten-age antic landed me in his office. I remember he was kind to me then and remained kind, thoughtful and understated, when I encountered him in later years. I can still clearly recall the timbre and richness of his voice and the natural way he carried his authority. I looked up to him and admired him as a child and I've never stopped. A teacher now myself, I appreciate Dr. Wojtuck more than ever. Rest in peace sir. And thank you.
Diane Desjardins
March 25, 2017
Rest in peace. Will be missed by all that knew him.
March 25, 2017
When I just recently learned of Dr. Wojtcuk's passing, I felt it necessary to not only express my condolences to the family, but also to relay my personal interactions with him, albeit several years ago, but still clear in my mind.
In the 1970's, myself, (I was a NPD lieutenant), Sgt. Dan Jenkins and PW Barbara Pomo visited all Norwich elementary schools, and presented a program for the students on safety and the role of the police.
We were always warmly greeted by Dr. Wojtcuk and his staff AND VERY RESPECTFULLY BY WEQUONNOCK STUDENTS. I know this was a result of the doctor's personality and professionalism. The best part: what a great start for students on their life's path!
Thank you, Dr. Wojtcuk...the world could use many, many more just like you!
William Tewksbury, Jr.
(Captain, ret'd. Norwich PD)
St. Petersburg, FL.
Bill Cleveland
March 24, 2017
We are far away from Taftville, retired in Georgia but we will never forget the many ways that Al Wojtcuk touched our lives--he was so giving and concerned with our three children and he was a terrific friend to have in your house with a drink in his hand telling the history of Taftville. He felt everything deeply and worked to make everything better--he was a man of class and distinction. He kept a "good book' in his office and students who did something outstanding got to go to his office and put their names in the "good book."--what a simple and effective reward! We were blessed to know him.
Bill and Marilyn Cleveland
Jason Baack
March 24, 2017
I always enjoyed my conversations and stories with uncle Albert. Such a knowledgeable, kind and caring soul. Always engaging and there to offer assistance anyway he could.
He will be missed. Thank you for the memories. My thoughts are with the family - so sorry for your loss.
Arlene Pollack
March 24, 2017
Please accept my sincere condolences on your loss. Albert was the epitome of an educator. I was a teacher in the NPS and worked with Albert on many committees. What a kind, caring, wonderful man. RIP.
Rose Fratoni
March 24, 2017
May - Al REST IN PEACE! This Man lived life - His Stories and Memories. Everyone stDear and Precious. He has touched so many people each in a different way. What a religious Man and generous person, Al was so proud that Lexi got him to volunteer at Backus Hospital .He loved how people stopped by the desk ,and recalled past times about their education or in life how they were touched.So many new friends by volunteering. He would still educate.He would leave to Volunteer tuitor in the afternoons at Sacred Heart School in Taftville. He would take time to relax at the Beach. How he loved that place- give him his chair and a good book!Another pleasure of his was Gardening.
MAY AL KEEP THE GARDENS IN HEAVEN BEAUTIFULL!
William J. Flynn
March 23, 2017
I am so sorry that we have lost Dr. Wojtcuk. Please may I extend my sincere sympathy to all the members of his family and to all his friends and comrades.
Dr. Wojtcuk was a larger than life figure of a man. Sacred Heart Parish in Taftville will not be the same without him. I won't be the same without him!
May his great spirit live forever in the presence of God and in our Parish too.
Peace and love,
Father William J. Flynn
Gina Conover (Zerillo)
March 23, 2017
You could not ask for a kinder, sweeter, gentler man to befriend and we are all the better for having known him. Any child who was lucky enough to have been in his academic care was truly blessed. He was incredibly kind to my mother and to this day I still remember the kind words he spoke at her funeral service. He commented on a wreath she always had hanging on the door of her home that read, "loves grows here". I believe that saying applied as well to anywhere Dr. Wojtcuk taught, lived, or spent time with family and friends. He will be sadly missed, fondly remembered, and never forgotten.
dennis riley
March 23, 2017
Al was a remarkable person in the fullest meaning of those words...I met him when my wife taught at Wequonnoc in the early 1960s and later enjoyed many great social times with he and his wife--the Gales, the D'Aquilas, the Hartsons, the Mansfields and other members of the staff...I really believe that school should be named for him because of the countless contributions he made to the Norwich education system...they were meaningful and more
Louise DiGangi
March 23, 2017
I had the pleasure of attending Wequonnoc School, I was a wonderful school in a wonderful neighborhood, as I grew up I would often fun into Dr. Wojtuck and he never forgot my name, always a sincere smile with kind words. Rest in peace my friend with the angels.
Louise "Liskiewicz" DiGangi
Gail Navick
March 23, 2017
I met and enjoyed working with Al at the Backus Information Desk. I'll miss our interesting and fun conversations.
Please accept my deepest sympathy and heartfelt thoughts.
Sincerely, Gail Navick
Carol Butova
March 22, 2017
My deepest condolences to all the family of the loss of Dr. Wojtcuk. I worked with him when I was at Wequonnoc school. He was always a very concerned man for the workers and the children. His memories will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace Dr. Wojtcuk and thank you for what you have given to the children in Norwich.
Jennifer Baack
March 22, 2017
TO Barry, Chris, Robin, Adam
Your father was a remarkable man - a teacher, distinguished scholar, traveler, and one who was devoted to his family. He could tell a joke, recommend a book, give support and advice, and arrange flowers at any family occasion. He was very special to my Dad and he could always make my Mother laugh. I am blessed to have known such a man as my Uncle Albert. I hold the many recollections of him close to my heart.
May your fond memories of your parents bring you contentment and pride.
Michelle Goettlich
March 22, 2017
To all his children, we are all so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. Our condolences to all of you. My parents were so fond of yours and now they are together again. Love, The Surprenant siblings
Allen Thompson
March 22, 2017
I am deeply sadden to hear of the pasting of Principal Al, He knew my family. Very will spoken man, I have grown admerimire him I currently work for a school styterm and tell stories of Dr. Al when I was a boy. Rest will my friend.
Michele, Patrick, Sarah Messick
March 22, 2017
You have been our neighbor for the past twenty years and nine years my children attended Wequonnoc School. We were very fortunate to have you in our lives as, neighbor, teacher, and community leader. You touched our lives by your kindness and caring, you will be greatly missed. Our deepest sympathy to your family at this sad time.
Guy D'Andria
March 22, 2017
Barry, Christopher, Robin and Adam. I am so sorry to hear of your Fathers passing . When we all met at Uncle Felix's funeral little did I know that would be the last time I would ever have the pleasure of Uncle Albert's wit and company. He always had a kind word and genuine concern about my well being. I still have the bottle of soil from Poland on my dresser and think of him every time I see it . His life touched so many people and he will be truly missed.
Leon Field
March 22, 2017
One of the greatest individuals I have ever met.My children were lucky enough to attend his school and get to know him. Last time I saw Doctor Wojtcuk was when driving for American Ambulance, he was volunteering at the reception desk, AND still going to school for yet another degree. To his family I send love and prayers a
March 22, 2017
Dear Barry, Chris, Robin, & Adam
Alison & I will always remember the kindness
your Dad Showed us, when we were in need.
We have very fond memories of your Dad, my Uncle. His kindness to everyone, and the lives he touched was truly remarkable!
Our deepest condolences,
Your Cousin, Alison & Mark Wagner
David Oat
March 22, 2017
Will always remember Al and the Wojtcuk family at GLP.
Angela Arnold
March 22, 2017
Barry and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. What a great man! May God bless you and fill you with wonderful memories!
Angela Arnold
Julie Sicotte ( Ruffo )
March 22, 2017
Dear Chris & Family - I am so sorry for the loss of your father. I have very fond memories of him from years ago. He was a wonderful and caring / thoughtful person. I remember his love for Poland.. still have a gift he gave me from his trip to Poland years ago. Now, he is smiling as he is with your mom. May all your wonderful memories give you comfort during this sad time. God Bless.
roderick arpin
March 22, 2017
a better friend to a child there never was - a great person who NEVER forgot a student - he will be missed by those he touched
Dorrie Fraser
March 22, 2017
Chris, Robin, and all other family; I wish to extend my sincere condolences and prayers at this time of grieving. Your dad was a wonderful man who had a profound effect on every life he touched. Without him my children would not have flourished the way that they did. He will be missed beyond measure.
Lydia Blacker
March 22, 2017
I remember meeting him when I did my student teaching at Wequonnoc School in 1969. My condolences to his family.
Susan Hensley
March 22, 2017
Sorry for your loss. Condolences to the whole family. Dr . Wojtcuk was a wonderful man. He was the principal for all three of my children. He went out of his way to do what he could. RIP
The Hensley Family
john cotter
March 22, 2017
A Man for All Seasons--beloved by all who knew him. Have a wonderful journey Dr Al. We will miss you greatly.
March 22, 2017
Dr. Wojtcuk.....Albert.....Papa Wojtcuk....he wore so many hats within my family's relations with him. We all admired his laughter, smiles, incite and dedication to his family and friends. I personally will miss his morning mass readings. He has left such fond memories. Please let the wonderful times you shared with him help you all keep him alive in your hearts. Prayers are with you all! God bless.
Beth Belliveau
Billy and Nancy Culver
March 22, 2017
Chris, Robin, and family,
Our most sincere condolences on the recent loss of your Dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow.
Paulette Harwood
March 22, 2017
Barry, so sorry to hear of your father's passing, though his life was full and he will be remembered by many. May you carry on his legacy of generosity of spirit and compassion.
Josephine Bannister
March 22, 2017
Uncle Albert, You will be missed and you will be in my thoughts and prayers.Thank you for being there for me and my sister.Please say hi to our Mom for us.
Sharon & Bruce Parsons
March 22, 2017
You were always there to help us out. you were always there when I had to move Mom to live with us and then move to Florida. You always kept in touch and visited her with Uncle Felix. you opened your beach house to us when we came to visit and kept in touch. we will never forget you and you will always be in out thoughts and prayers now you can join the angel and your Mom and Dad, wife and sister and brothers in heaven.You are always in our hearts.
Bonnie Kenyon
March 21, 2017
My prayers and thoughts go out to the family Kathy and Barry!!! A Wonderful man may he Rest In Peace withthe Angels Above!!!❤
Jolene Ruffo
March 21, 2017
Albert, Dr. Wojtcuk, was a wonderful, kind and gifted man, one of the best. To fully know Albert was to love him. Wequonnoc School will never ever see a Principal or magnificent man as Dr. Wojtcuk, Father of Weqonnoc School. His way of living life and loving children cannot be duplicated. Albert, I will always remember you and your lessons of life (and flowers) you shared with me. I have a happy heart knowing that you now walk with your bride in God's garden.
Marie Tyler Wiley
March 21, 2017
Barry & Family, I just happened upon your Dad's obituary and wanted to reach out to you to say we are so sorry!!!
Your Dad was a life long "fixture" down at the "Point". And while I didn't know him other than Mr. Wojtcuk...Barry's Dad...I always knew he was a keen man and a fair one. He just seemed that way.
I have so many memories of him...either kerplunked in his beach chair...or fiddling around outside at home. He always seem to have something of import to do. :)
And then today...after reading his beautiful obituary...I am saddened that I never took the time to get to know him. Oh my goodness he had quite the illustrious career. I could have learned much from him.
What I did learn is that he raised a fine son, someone who every has always liked down at the beach.:). That's a fine legacy and as we all know every parents wish...to raise good children.
I'm sorry you're going through this painful time. We will keep you in our prayers.I'm certainly going to miss seeing your Dad around. The Point is just a little bit more empty now of the person who always made it seem normal. :) God Bless!
If there is anything Kip or I can do to help out...please feel free to reach out. Take Care
Marie & Kip Wiley
GERARD & KATHARYAN TANGUAY
March 21, 2017
...AND THE ANGEL SAID," ALL MEN LIVE, BUT, NOT THROUGH CARE OF THEMSELVES, BUT BY LOVE' ~TOLSTOY
REST IN THE ARMS OF THE ANGELS DEAR ONE;THANK YOU FOR YOUR LOVE, YOU WERE AN INSPIRATION TO MANY, A BRIGHT LIGHT SHINING ON THE LANDSCAPES OF OUR LIVES THAT WILL BE FOREVER CHANGED WITH YOUR PASSING.
LOVE YOU MUCH~LOVE YOU MORE!
Katharyan Tanguay
March 21, 2017
...You were always a bright light in our lives Godfather; We will hold you in are hearts until we meet again...Rest Well Dear One in the arms of the Angels...
...and the angel said, " All Men Live, But Not Through Care of Themselves, But, By Love ...Tolstoy
"Love You Much~ Love You More"
Barbie Ashmore
March 21, 2017
I was in second grade he was our principal I was very ill and he got me out of class and carried me to his car and drove me to my home. I will never forget his kindness . R.I.P. Barbie Gagnon Ashmore
linda sposato
March 21, 2017
Barry and Kathy...Sorry for your loss, he was such a sweet man. He always had a smile when greeting people at the hospital.
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