Stanislaus J. Skarzynski

Stanislaus J. Skarzynski, a native of Springfield MA, died on October 25, 2024, at the Center for Extended Care in Amherst, at the age of 72. He was the oldest son of Stanley and Irene Skarzynski. He was a parishioner at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in his early years, and after he married, joined Holy Cross parish. He faithfully attended Catholic Sunday mass throughout his life, whether at home or while traveling, and clearly in spite of being debilitated by Parkinson’s disease.  Reflecting a teacher’s note in an early school report card, Stan enjoyed the challenge of lively conversation throughout his life. With great love of singing, he joyfully sang in many different choral groups over the years.  And was just as happy singing along to a Sea Chanty or tapping his feet to Reggae. He literally saw life through his own lens, being a self- taught professional photographer. The images he captured of natural beauty were the best of that talent.  

Books were Stan’s constant companions, and he voraciously read the works of the world and local greats, in history, science fiction, and human nature. Stan was always about what was new and what there was to learn, often jumping into the next hobby or interest feet first.  Those who knew Stan could not help but be inspired by his dedication to duty, his intellectual curiosity, and his sense of humor.  Intellectual pursuits were not his only passion, though. Stan was a competitive individual, and instead of team sports, he preferred the one-on-one challenges of fencing, sailing, and climbing mountains-activities that reflected Stan’s desire to always make his own way. He personified the adage that life is not about the destination, it is about the journey. Stan did not, however, lack for team spirit. He enlisted with the United States Marine Corps and rose to the rank of Sargent, embracing the spirit of teamwork while proudly serving his country for four years.  
When he returned to civilian life, he brought that dedication to the Springfield Fire Department in the service of his neighbors, for many years.  Stan spent a good portion of his fire-fighting career in the station houses, and as a Captain, directed the Springfield Fire Training Center, continuing to lead by example.  As a well-respected Training officer, he capably achieved the results the department required of him.  

Stan’s greatest achievement was bringing his wife of 38 years, Cynthia, into the Skarzynski Family.  As a couple, Stan and Cynthia spent much time, energy, and love being aunt and uncle to their Nephews, generous to others in need, and good, loyal friends to many. As a pair, they hiked, traveled, and sailed. They brought their nephews on many memorable trips, including to multiple U.S. Open Tennis Championships and Boskone science fiction conventions.  But when it came down to it, they were just as happy at home, surrounded by the family and friends they loved.

Stanislaus was predeceased by his parents, and in 2023, his wife Cynthia, as well.  He is survived by his sisters Tina Skarzynski of East Longmeadow and Sr. Mary Irene, Missionaries of Charity Scotland, his Brother Jim and his wife Terri of Montague, and cherished nephews Nicholas and Daniel Skarzynski.  He was thrilled when his grand nephew was named Stanley.  

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, from 4:00-6:00pm at Nowak Funeral & Cremation Services, 15 Ludlow Ave., Springfield. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, October 31, 2024 assembling at 9:00am at the funeral home and proceeding to Our Lady of Sacred Heart Church, 407 Boston Road, Springfield for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am. Burial will follow at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. 

In the last few years the difficulties that Parkinson’s disease inflicted on Stan were eased with the care and attention of the staff at The Arbors Assisted Living at Amherst, and many wonderful people at the Center for Extended Care at Amherst. Many thank you’s from his family.

In light of Stan’s lifelong passion for reading and learning, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory (payable to) Reading is Fundamental ,750 First Street, NE Suite 920 Washington DC, Attn: Development Dept., or visit online at www.rif.org. This organization is dedicated to ensure all children can read. To offer online condolences to the family please visit www.nowakfuneral.com. 
 

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