Jack Melesko, 81, of Manchester, beloved husband of Catherine Mclarty, passed away peacefully at home on June 18, 2026.

Born on October 21, 1944, in Manchester, he was the son of the late John and Julia Melesko. A proud graduate of Manchester High School, Class of 1962, Jack enlisted in the United States Navy shortly after graduation. He served four years, traveling the world while training as an electrical technician. Upon his honorable discharge, he continued his education at Cheney Technical School and began a long career at Pratt & Whitney Aircraft.

Jack had a zest for life and many passions. He enjoyed taking his boat out fishing, hiking, and spending time in nature. He loved dancing, playing and watching tennis, cheering on his beloved New York Giants and Premier League soccer, and spending time with his favorite dog, Huck. One of his fondest memories was volunteering with friends and neighbors to maintain and preserve the Hockanum River.

He will be remembered for his great sense of humor and infectious laugh, his fiercely held opinions, and his love of lively debate. Jack engaged everyone he met with intelligence, enthusiasm, and unwavering conviction, always bringing a smile or a laugh to those around him. In his later years, he met his beloved wife, Catherine, while dancing. He devoted himself wholeheartedly to her, and together they shared a loving marriage filled with joy and companionship.

In addition to his wife Catherine, Jack is survived by his twin sister, Joan Melesko; his first wife and mother of his three sons, Doreen Melesko; his sons, John Melesko III and his wife Rebecca, James Melesko, and David Melesko and his wife Kelly; his stepchildren, Alan Zytowski, Sherry (Zytowski) Curtis, Melody Dodge, Abby (Dodge) Vasquez, Dana Dodge, and Patrick Dodge; and his four grandchildren, Austin Melesko, Mairyn Melesko, Liam Melesko, and Aiden Melesko. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Irene.

Jack leaves behind a family that deeply loved him and will forever cherish the many memories they shared.

Calling Hours will be held on Wednesday, July 1st, 2026 from 9:30am until 10am followed by a Half Hour of Prayer and Remembrance from 10am until 10:30am at Holmes Watkins Funeral Home, located at 400 Main Street, Manchester CT 06040. Burial will take place following the Prayer and Remembrance service at Saint James Cemetery. To leave an online condolence please visit www.holmeswatkins.com