Obituary of John Edward Czaja

Palmer- John Edward Czaja, 63, a loving husband, father, grandfather, coach and friend, passed away unexpectedly on April 10th, 2021.  Born in Palmer, MA on Oct. 26, 1957 to John and Emily (Kapinos) Czaja, where he remained a lifelong resident. John worked as a Senior Sourcing Manager for the north east region of US Foods. John's greatest happiness came through passionately supporting his children in every aspect of their lives. When John wasn’t happily spending time with his family, he could be found working in his yard, setting up Christmas decorations and enjoying sports.  Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his Cioci, Helen Kapinos. John is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Charlene (Kozlik) Czaja. John will be deeply missed by his four children, Melinda Czaja (Jonathan) of Boulder, CO; Jenifer (Brian) Gernux of Milford, MA; Matthew Czaja of Palmer; and Emily Czaja (Tom) of Palmer. He is also survived by his cherished granddaughter, Ella Gernux and his mother-in-law Marion Kozlik of Bondsville.   Walk through calling hours will be held on April 14, 2021 from 4-7 pm at Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home. Family and friends are invited to gather the following morning at the funeral home at 9am for a 10 am Funeral Mass at Divine Mercy Church. Burial will follow mass at St. Peter and Paul Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Palmer Athletics at Palmer High School Athletics 4105 Main St, Palmer, MA 01069.