John Czapko, Jr.

John Czapko, Jr., 88, died January 2nd, 2025.

Mr. Czapko was born to John and Sophie Czapko and raised by Sophie and her second husband, John Raylain, in Gary, Indiana. After playing four years of football, John graduated from Lew Wallace High School in 1954. He enlisted in the US Navy in 1954, serving as a radio technician, his last tour being with the crew of the destroyer USS Waller (DD-466) and being honorably discharged in 1956.

John is survived by his wife of 68 years, Mary Czapko (Hilton), three of four children, John R. Czapko, Jean E. Czapko, Daniel R. Czapko, and six Grandchildren. Daughter Laura K. Czapko preceded John in death in 2009.

He met his future wife, Mary Hilton, in 1954, and married in July 1956. John was employed as a Draftsman with the American Bridge Company of US Steel for 28 years. He then continued work as a draftsman with other companies until he retired in 2001. Following their retirement, they relocated to Green Valley, Arizona.

John was an active member of Holy Resurrection Antiochian Orthodox Church in Tucson, volunteering and furnishing meals with Gospel Rescue Mission and Primavera Foundation. He was also an active member of the Green Valley Elks Lodge 2592. He enjoyed gold mining and fly fishing in his spare time and exploring the state of Arizona with his wife, Mary. Comfort for the last six months has been provided by the wonderful caregivers from Aegis hospice care and The Ranch Estates of Tucson assisted living facility.

The memorial and celebration of life service will be held Saturday, January 11, 2025, 11:00 am, at Adair Funeral Home, Avalon Chapel, 8090 N. Northern Ave., Tucson, Arizona 85704.