John Edward Regish, 76, of Avon, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2025, at UConn Hospital after a brief illness. His life was defined by service, craftsmanship, and deep devotion to his family, friends, and fellow veterans.
Early Life and Education
Born on August 22, 1948, John grew up with a passion for construction and engineering. A graduate of Canton High School, Class of 1966, he pursued further education at the Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston, Massachusetts, where he studied construction and engineering. This foundation led him to become a highly skilled and respected carpenter, running his own business for many years.
Military Service and Vietnam Deployment
In 1968, John enlisted in the U.S. Navy Seabees, bringing his expertise to the forefront of military construction. Assigned to the U.S. Naval Mobile Construction Battalion ONE (NMCB ONE), he deployed to Vietnam in July 1969. His unit played a critical role in supporting military operations, including the rapid reconstruction of a 260-foot bridge on Highway QL-1 in just ten days. He also contributed to civic action projects and the upgrade of a Vietnamese Naval Base.
John served overseas until March 1970 and was later honorably discharged in October 1970. His military decorations included:
- National Defense Service Medal
- Vietnam Service Medal
- Vietnam Campaign Medal
- Connecticut Wartime Service Medal
- Navy Expert Rifleman Medal
Life After Service
Returning home, John dedicated himself to his trade, family, and community. His talent as a carpenter and woodworker was well-known, crafting furniture, cutting boards, coasters, cribbage boards, and more—always creating something meaningful with his hands.
John was an active and proud member of VFW Post 3272 in Avon, Connecticut, where he worked tirelessly on the annual poppy drive and enjoyed camaraderie with fellow veterans. Several times a week, he gathered with his veteran friends at BeanZ in Avon, sharing stories and playing cribbage.
Over the years, he and his beloved wife, Laurie Fitzgerald Regish, had the opportunity to live in Connecticut, Arizona, and North Carolina, forming lifelong friendships in each place.
Family and Loved Ones
John leaves behind his loving wife of 53 years, Laurie Fitzgerald Regish, and their children: Jason Regish of Waynesville, NC, and Taryn Pratt (Alyson) of Phoenix, AZ. He adored his granddaughter, Elizabeth Regish (Joanna) of Beavercreek, OH, and cherished his great-grandchildren: Abby, Max, Olivia, and Matthew Ziemba, along with Gracie and Ada Hensley.
He is also survived by his sister, Patricia Woods of New Port Richey, FL, and brother, Paul Regish (Julie) of East Hartford, CT. He was a devoted uncle to many nieces and nephews and a treasured friend to countless others.
Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Service
John’s family will receive friends on Friday, March 28, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Carmon Funeral Home & Family Center, 301 Country Club Road, Avon, Connecticut. A Memorial Service will follow at 11:00 AM at the same location.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:
- BeanZ & Co. mission – www.beanzandco.com/donate
- Gildo Consolini VFW Post 3272 – PO Box 297, Avon, CT 06001
For directions, online condolences, or to share a memory, please visit www.carmonfuneralhome.com.
A Lasting Legacy
John Edward Regish was a man of integrity, craftsmanship, and unwavering loyalty—to his family, his country, and his fellow veterans. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched.