November 15, 1932 – August 28, 2023 (90)

John J. Zajac Jr. Obituary

Former State Senator John Joseph Zajac Jr., 90, of Durham, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2023, surrounded by his loving family he led to build.

John was born November 15, 1932, on his Babci’s farm in Middlefield, CT by a midwife to the late Stella Kokoszka and John Joseph Zajac Sr. John was married to the love of his life the former Alice Marie Montana for 61 years and raised six children. They resided at 33 Dexter Avenue in Meriden until moving to Durham in 2006. John and Alice enjoyed a well-deserved and enjoyable retirement in Durham.

John attended St. Stanislaus Grammar School where he served as an altar boy. He also attended Meriden High School graduating in 1950. While at Meriden High School John lettered in three sports, basketball, baseball, and soccer. John played the accordion and had his own band while in high school. John also attended St. Bonaventure University with a Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medical and dental. Alice and John courted throughout their college years.

John was in the U.S. Army and was a Korean War veteran serving as a 1st Lieutenant in the 25th Tropical Lightening Infantry Division in the Pacific serving in Charlie Battery of the Artillery Battalion. He was stationed in Oklahoma and Hawaii.

John served his community and the state most of his life. His record of public service in the Meriden area extends three decades. He was chairman of the Meriden Board of Tax Review, State Senator, and Majority Leader from 1970-1974. He was appointed Deputy Minority Leader then later Majority Leader and House Whip in the State House of Representatives. John served with Governors Tom Meskill, Ella Grasso, William O’Neil, and Lowell Weicker.

For John’s full obituary, please CLICK HERE