John David Dryja

John David Dryja, 64, of Berry St. Torrington, unexpectedly passed away on Wed. May 26, 2021 at Hartford Hospital with his loving family at his side.  John was born in Brooklyn, NY, on December 18, 1956, beloved son of the late Joseph Dryja and Jeanne Rudenko Dryja.  He attended Maple Street Elementary School and was a graduate of Seymour High School Class of 1974.  In 1976, he graduated from the Denver Automotive and Diesel College of Denver, CO. He was a devoted son and big brother to his sisters, Janice and Joanne.  Johnny taught them how to skate whips on the ice, and to skate backward. His swimming and fishing lessons at Sochrin's Pond included the finer points of leech removal.   John was proud of his Russian and Polish heritage. He always said if it wasn't for his Grandparents on his mother's side, Feodor and Efrosinia Rudenko, risking their lives and escaping from Russia 1910, life would never have been the way he enjoyed it. They paved the way for freedom in America for their family. He was forever grateful.

For the past twenty-five years he lived in San Diego and Tehachapi, CA where he was employed by several companies as a master automotive restoration mechanic and ultimately opened his own business.  Technically, he was extremely gifted and passionate about the masterpieces he created, especially his antique cars. He was very proud of his 100% customer satisfaction rating.  John loved boating, fishing, camping and hunting.  Over the years he owned three boats and enjoyed taking his friends on fishing trips.  John was the self-proclaimed biggest fan of Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys for over forty years. He was sure to attend any of their concerts in his area.  He was proud to have met Brian Wilson backstage on many occasions and became friends.  John was also a fan of the Beatles, Moody Blues, Herman's Hermits, Bread, Neil Young, the Allman Brothers and Old School Rock….but no one even came close to the Beach Boys.

John relocated to Connecticut seven months ago and enjoyed spending time with his life-long friends including, John Stowell and Jerry Paul.  Jerry said, "We had a lot of good times and John and I wouldn't want to change any of them. John, until we see each other again keep an eye on me and I will you. I love you man! Jerry."

He was a proud member of NA for over three decades and sponsored countless men who moved on to great accomplishments.  He knew everyone and was always ready to offer a helping hand.  According to his friend T-Bone, (Tom Berstler) his legacy was his "no BS style" which was appreciated and emulated by others.

John was a kind, compassionate and loving man. When someone was down on their luck and had no place to eat or sleep, John opened his door and said "there's the couch and the refrigerator is in there. Make yourself comfortable."

He is survived by his daughter, Katie Dryja Collins (Patience) of Dunwoody, GA; devoted sisters, Janice Easter of New Britain, CT, and Joanne DaSilva, and her husband Fernando, of Ansonia, CT; beloved nieces, Melania DaSilva Deaver (Ryan) of Santa Cruz, Portugal, Christina Easter Labieniec (Daniel) of New Britain, CT; nephew, Sean Easter (Jessica) of Minnesota; great nieces, Tiana and Moriah Deaver of Santa Cruz, Portugal, and Nora Easter of Minnesota; and great nephew Truman Easter of Minnesota.

Funeral Services are private and will be held at the convenience of the family.  Burial will be in the family plot at Pine Grove Cemetery, Ansonia, CT.  Final Services have been entrusted into the care of the Anthony V. Chepulis Funeral Home 47 Washington Ave. Seymour CT.  To leave an on-line condolence please visit: www.chepulisfuneralhome.com .  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Ansonia Animal Shelter 1 North Division Street Ansonia, CT 06401 (203)410-7716 or AnsoniaAnimalShelter on facebook