On this special day, we honor the birthday of John E. Regish, born on August 22, 1948—a proud U.S. Navy Seabee veteran, accomplished craftsman, and beloved family man whose life continues to inspire those who knew him.

John’s early years in Connecticut laid the foundation for a life dedicated to excellence and service. A graduate of Canton High School in 1966, he went on to study construction and engineering at the Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston. In 1968, driven by a deep sense of duty and passion for his craft, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy Seabees as a Builder 3rd Class (BU3). His military service brought him to Vietnam in 1969, where he contributed to critical projects such as the remarkable rebuilding of a 260-foot bridge in a hostile environment, civic action initiatives in Saigon, and upgrades to a Vietnamese Naval Base at An Thoi.

After completing his service, John channeled his skills into a successful career as a carpenter. Running his own business, he crafted furniture, cutting boards, and other cherished pieces that have become treasured family heirlooms. His passion for woodworking was matched only by his devotion to his family.

John shared 53 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Laurie Fitzgerald Regish. He is lovingly remembered by his son, Jason Regish of Waynesville, NC; his daughter, Taryn Pratt (Alyson) of Phoenix, AZ; and his granddaughter, Elizabeth Regish (Joanna) of Beavercreek, OH. His legacy also lives on in his great-grandchildren—Abby, Max, Olivia, and Matthew Ziemba, along with Gracie and Ada Hensley—as well as his sister, Patricia Woods of New Port Richey, FL, and his brother, Paul Regish (Julie) of East Hartford, CT. John was a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews and a dear friend to countless others.

A longtime and active member of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 3272 in Avon, Connecticut, John dedicated himself to supporting fellow veterans and strengthening community bonds. Regular gatherings at BeanZ & Co. for coffee and cribbage, where he shared stories and laughter with his veteran friends, were a testament to his enduring spirit and warmth.

Today, as we celebrate John E. Regish’s birthday, we reflect on a life marked by service, craftsmanship, and unwavering love for family and community. His memory remains a beacon of inspiration, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know him.