John A. Kostrisak, Sr., of Avon, Connecticut, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at the age of 100. A decorated World War II veteran and a beloved member of the community, John lived a life defined by courage, perseverance, and devotion to both his family and his country.

Born in Burlington, Connecticut, he was the son of the late Andras Kostrisak and Anna (Scigulinsky) Kostrisak Hatala. He was later raised by his stepfather, Joseph Hatala. John was predeceased by his wife, Jennie (Zionce) Kostrisak, his siblings, and stepfather. He lived in Burlington before settling in Avon in 1963.

John was drafted out of New Britain Trade School at the age of 18 and inducted into the U.S. Army on April 9, 1943. He completed basic training at Camp Blanding, Florida, with the 66th Division and was later transferred to Camp Robinson, Arkansas, and Fort Meade, Maryland. On October 6, 1943, he boarded a British ship from Newport News with 5,000 other troops and arrived in Casablanca, Morocco. After traveling by French train to Oran, Algeria, he was sent to the front lines in Italy.

Joining Company E, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division on January 22, 1944, at Cassino, Italy, John served as a Rifle Grenadier. When his assault boat malfunctioned, he landed on the Anzio beachhead in daylight and came under intense artillery and air attack. On February 18, 1944, near Padiglione, Italy, John’s actions saved his company from destruction. For extraordinary heroism, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. During that day, he carried out three separate single-handed assaults, silencing enemy machine guns, forcing the surrender of dozens of German troops, and even damaging a Mark IV tank. His bravery under fire was unmatched, allowing his company to resume its mission despite suffering 93 casualties.

The next day, John was wounded by shrapnel from a German tank shell. He spent several weeks recovering in a hospital in Naples before returning to duty in May 1944. During the assault toward Rome, his company of 250 men was reduced to only 20–25 when the German lines finally surrendered. In August, John took part in the invasion of Southern France aboard an LCI, landing near Marseilles and facing intense enemy resistance before continuing to advance into Brignoles.

Later, during operations near the Maginot Line in September 1944, a devastating mortar attack killed many around him. John survived with internal injuries, severe concussions, and was buried under debris, resulting in another month of recovery in a hospital. He was later assigned to the 211th Replacement Battalion, where he helped wounded soldiers return to their units.

John served in five major campaigns: Naples-Foggia, Rome-Arno, Southern France, Rhineland, and Central Europe. His military service lasted from April 16, 1943, to November 14, 1945, with 25 months overseas. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart with two oak leaf clusters, Good Conduct Medal, WWII Victory Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Rifleman Badge, and the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with one silver star. He had also been recommended for the Medal of Honor.

After the war, John returned home and devoted his life to family and community. He worked as an Auto Technician for over 40 years, including 20 years at Weatogue Garage and Mitchell Pontiac, followed by 23 years at O’Neill’s Chevrolet-Buick before retiring. He became a member of VFW Post 3272 in Avon in 1948 and remained active throughout his life. He was also involved in the Disabled American Veterans and the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

A longtime parishioner at St. Patrick Church in Collinsville, John found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved gardening in his backyard, fishing and swimming at Barkhamsted Reservoir, polka dancing with his beloved wife Jennie, cheering on the Boston Red Sox, and enjoying activities at the Avon and Canton Senior Centers. He especially treasured taking day trips across New England with his family.

John is survived by his son, John Jr., and daughter-in-law Jan; daughter Joan; daughter Judy and son-in-law John; and his grandchildren, Michael and Matthew. He is also fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews.

A private Funeral Mass was held on March 26, 2025, at St. Patrick Church in Collinsville, followed by burial at Calvary Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to St. Patrick Church, Collinsville, Connecticut.

John Kostrisak, Sr. lived a life that exemplified American heroism and quiet strength. His remarkable legacy as a soldier, husband, father, and community member will continue to inspire all who knew his story.

Vet Stories | Canton, CT Patch 

John Kostrisak – Hall of Valor:  U.S. Military Awards 

Interview (Part One) with John A. Kostrisak, WWII veteran. CCSU Veterans History Project 

Click here for a PDF copy of his history