Edward S. Bockowski

Pawcatuck - Edward S. Bockowski, beloved husband for 33 years of Kristin (O'Keefe) Bockowski, of Pawcatuck, passed away peacefully Saturday, July 29, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was 59. Ed was a bright light, spreading his infectious good humor to everyone he met. If you weren't a friend of Ed's you just hadn't met him yet. A truly genuine soul, he was a kind and loyal friend.

Born in Staten Island, N.Y., Ed was the son of Eileen Finley and the late Edward "Butch" Bockowski. He cherished spending time with his grandfather, going on adventures with his friends and cousin Kevin, and taking care of horses.

After graduating from Tottenville High School in 1981, Ed made the life-changing decision to join the U.S. Navy. Ed was always proud to tell others about his experience in the military and shake the hand of any veteran or service member he met. Most importantly, the Navy brought him to Newport, R.I. where he met his wife Kristin. From the moment they met, his undying devotion to her never faulted and only grew over time. Their foremost desire was to create a happy family and that they did, welcoming Eddie, Danny, and Lily. While his family was the center of his world, he had great affection for his extended Bockowski/Finley and O'Keefe families.

Ed received his Associate's degree in Civil Engineering and Bachelor's degree in Business Management. He worked at Wheelabrator Technologies for 21 years, and at General Dynamics Electric Boat for almost eight years. He was a member of Groton Sportsmen's Club and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and at home projects. Ed's favorite pastime was spending time with his family.

In between working and helping raise three kids and a dog, Ed still had space to give himself to others. He specifically found joy in coaching. Between soccer and crew, Ed coached in the Stonington community for almost 20 years. Throughout every practice, game, and regatta, he was always ready to give inspiring advice to any young athlete, or lend a hand to anyone that needed it. He sought to make everyone feel worthy and helped countless individuals see their own potential.

Ed is survived by his wife Kristin Bockowski; his three children, Edward Bockowski Jr., Daniel Bockowski, and Lily Bockowski; his puppy Humphrey; his mother Eileen Finley; his siblings, Eileen Woll, Ellen Finley, and Ryan Finley; and several cousins, nieces, nephews, and other extended family members. He will be deeply missed by his family and anyone who knew his jubilant spirit.

Visiting hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 4, at Gaffney Dolan Funeral Home. A funeral service with military honors will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at the funeral home. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Stonington Crew at https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=7C7RDPHLAVT3A. Donations can also be mailed to PO Box 242, Stonington, CT 06378. For online condolences, please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com.