Obituary: George Thomas Tokarz Jr., 74, of New Haven

Obituary courtesy of East Haven Memorial Funeral Home:

George Thomas Tokarz Jr. was born in New Haven, CT, on September 1, 1949, to George T. Tokarz Sr. and Lillian (Tokarz) Hummel. After a dedicated 24-year career with the United States Post Office on Brewery Street in New Haven, he retired in 2009.

George, known for his culinary skills, especially his coveted eggplant dish, brought joy to many through his love of cooking. To him, family extended beyond blood ties; if you were called "Benny," you were considered a cherished part of his family. His home was always stocked with Foxon Park sodas, Budweiser beer, and the comforting ambiance of a Yankee game on TV.

Survived by his daughters, Christine Tokarz Raffone and Jackelyn Tokarz Hizon, his greatest joys were his three granddaughters, Mikayla Raffone, Amber Raffone, and Julianna Hizon. George's generous heart was evident in the large fruit platters by the poolside and the ever-present aroma of a barbecue.

Preceded in death by his father George Tokarz Sr., mother Lillian (Tokarz) Hummel, and sister Sharon Tokarz of California, George will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A memorial mass will be held at a later date to celebrate the life of this remarkable man who left an indelible mark on those he touched.