Peter J. Jurzynski

Peter J. Jurzynski, age 71, passed away on Sunday January 29, 2022 at Smilow Cancer Center at Yale New Haven Hospital.

Peter was born in Waterbury, CT on June 7, 1951, son of the late Sigmund and Jessie (Pigut) Jurzynski. He grew up in Naugatuck and was a graduate of St. Hedwig School and Naugatuck High School. During his college years he worked as a lifeguard for CT State Parks. He went on to receive his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Springfield College. He lived many years in Springfield and Boston, MA where he made his home in “Southie” and swam at the LST Swim Club where he made many great friendships.

Peter worked for the Town of Stoneham in public relations and as a director of the Senior Center and at the Boston City Hall and also at the Boston School system as an educator. After returning to Naugatuck, Peter enjoyed substitute teaching at Kennedy and Crosby High Schools in Waterbury.

His true passion in life was swimming. Peter swam the English Channel fourteen times and was inducted into the Swimming Hall of Fame in Fort Lauderdale, Florida for his many accomplishments. He enjoyed his many trips to England where he made lifelong friends, especially in the town of Folkestone. He considered it his second home. He also loved politics and ran for mayor in his hometown of Naugatuck.

Peter also swam nearly every day at the Waterbury YMCA, up until his illness.

He had a great time and met and made many wonderful friends who encouraged him constantly throughout his illness.

Peter is survived by his loving sister Barbara Podlisny and her husband Stephen of Prospect; and several cousins and close friends.

Friends and family are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial which will be celebrated on Saturday February 11, 2023 at 11 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 318 Church St. in Naugatuck. A reception will follow immediately after the Mass.

Burial is private. There are no calling hours at the funeral home. To send an online condolence, please visit www.naugatuckvalleymemorial.com. The Naugatuck Valley Memorial/Fitzgerald Zembruski Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.