John Edward Proch

John Edward Proch, 85, of Seymour, peacefully entered eternal life on February 18, 2026, at Masonicare at Bishop Wicke Health Center in Shelton. He was the beloved husband of Phyllis (Abate) Proch, and in April they would have been blessed with nearly 60 years of devoted marriage.
Born in New Haven in 1940, John was the beloved son of the late Paul and Mary (Duffy) Proch. A lifelong resident of Seymour, he attended Maple Street School, and graduated from Seymour High School with the Class of 1958. During his youth, John enjoyed playing baseball and basketball and later continued recreational play with the Knights of Columbus. Golf became his true passion - a sport he enjoyed both on the course and as an enthusiastic spectator throughout his life.
John proudly served his country during the Vietnam War era as a member of the United States Navy, serving aboard the USS Shasta and USS Altair. Following his military service, he began his professional career in real estate and insurance before embarking on a long and fulfilling career as a Technical Writer at Sikorsky Aircraft. He dedicated 33 years to Sikorsky before retiring in 1999.
Following his retirement, John and Phyllis purchased a home on a golf course in North Fort Myers, Florida, where he happily spent countless hours perfecting his game. Together they enjoyed traveling to Florida, Virginia, Arizona, and the Grand Canyon, creating many treasured memories. Closer to home, John took great pleasure in organizing family ski trips, bringing loved ones together for time on the slopes in Vermont. A faithful communicant of St. Augustine Church of St. Nicholas Parish for many decades, John was also a past member of the Knights of Columbus Aurora Council #53. Quiet by nature and a man of few words, he was known for his warm, engaging smile and an appreciative nod – small gestures that spoke volumes. He will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
John was predeceased by his siblings: Paul, Michael, Robert, and George Proch; Mildred Jurzynski, Helen Bucko, Mary Frantisak, Ann Hedrick, Margaret Ellis, Irene Olszewski, and Joan Nolan.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Phyllis; his devoted children, Edward Proch of Seymour and Sandra Andes and her husband, David, of Seymour; his cherished grandchildren, Ashley, Jillian, and Ethan Andes; his devoted canine companion, Gibson; as well as his extensive extended family and many dear friends.
Funeral services are private and have been entrusted to the care of the Anthony V. Chepulis Funeral Home, 47 Washington Ave., Seymour, CT.  To leave an online condolence please visit www.chepulisfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to https://www.parkinson.org/ in memory of John Proch.