John W. Gawason, 77, of Woodbury, Connecticut, formerly of Westville and Woodbury, New Jersey, passed away Jan. 13, 2026, after a short, aggressive battle with vascular dementia and cancer.

Born in Philadelphia, John grew up in Deptford, graduating from Deptford High School in 1966. In 1971, he earned his bachelor's degree in biology, with a minor in mathematics, from Central Methodist University in Fayette, Missouri. There, he belonged to Alpha Phi Gamma fraternity, one of the oldest Greek organizations at CMU. John was a probation officer in Camden and Gloucester counties, retiring after 25 years of service with the State of New Jersey.

A devoted family man and proud Pop Pop who loved attending the numerous sporting events of his children and grandchildren, John also was exceedingly proud of his Ukrainian heritage. He was a faithful Catholic and was a longtime member of Saint Joachim Parish in Bellmawr, where he devoted his time as a lector. John lived his faith as a member of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. Upon moving to Connecticut three years ago, he joined the Prince of Peace Parish in Woodbury, where he belonged to St. Teresa's Men's Club. John was a lifelong fan of Philadelphia sports teams and especially loved cars and motorcycles. He took meticulous care of his vehicles, particularly his 100th anniversary Harley Davidson Sportster. He also loved telling stories and listening to oldies music.

John will be deeply missed by his wife, Sally, his partner of nearly 50 years; his children, Adam Gawason (Beth) and Corinne Palmer (Ronnie); his grandchildren, Owen and Caleigh Palmer and Caitlin Gawason; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Anna (Zapotochny) Gawason, and his brothers, Gregory Gawason Sr. and Peter Gawason Sr.

A memorial Mass will be held on Monday, Feb. 9, at 11 a.m. Saint Joachim Parish, 601 W. Browning Road, Bellmawr, New Jersey. Visitation with the family will take place prior to the Mass. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions in John's name to the American Heart Association, 7272 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75231.