WORCESTER-Theodore J. “Ted” Plotczyk, 97, of Worcester, died peacefully Monday, October 4th in his home. His wife of 49 years, Veronica E. (Menkalis) Plotczyk died in 1996. He leaves his daughter, Linda-Sue Plotczyk of Worcester, and many nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by five brothers and a sister.
Mr. Plotczyk was born in Worcester, the son of Joseph and Anna (Gwardyak) Plotczyk, and was a graduate of the former High School of Commerce. He was a World War II Army Air Force veteran. Ted had worked for Crompton and Knowles, Dowd Box, and its successor, the Owens-Illinois Company in the shipping department, retiring after 26 years of service. He was a long time member of the former St. Charles Borromeo Parish, and currently a member of Blessed Sacrament Parish. Mr. Plotczyk was also a member of AARP, the Greendale Retired Men’s Club, a lifetime member of the Polish Naturalization Independent Club, and was a regular at the Worcester Senior Center. He also delivered food to the needy as a volunteer with the St. Vincent dePaul Society.
Ted stayed active through his 32 years of retirement, and brought much joy and pleasure to his daughter’s second grade class as a weekly volunteer. The intergenerational component brought love and smiles to all he encountered, especially when “Mr. P.” came to tell a story, teach coin counting, or talk sports with today’s seven and eight year old budding athletes. In 2003 he was awarded the Norfolk County Teachers’ Association Layperson of the Year Award for his tireless efforts and caring way. He was an avid sports fan, especially enjoying his Boston Red Sox, and will be remembered for his advice given after each disappointing team loss with the words, “It’s only a game.” Ted was a constant companion with his daughter on their daily walks. His selflessness, generosity of his time, and the fact he always placed others before himself will be his legacy.
The funeral is Friday, October 8th from O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue, with a Mass at 11:00 AM in Blessed Sacrament Church, 555 Pleasant Street. Entombment will follow in Notre Dame Mausoleum. A wake will be held from 9:00 until 10:30 AM the day of the funeral. Flowers may be sent or contributions made to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701.