Joseph F. Szabo, Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joseph Frank Szabo Jr., who breathed his last breath at age 74, on December 8, 2023. Known affectionately as Joe, he was born on December 13, 1948, in New Britain, CT.

Joe graduated from New Britain High School in 1967 and continued on to Springfield College and CCSU with a degree in Physical Education. There he met the love of his life, Christine, which resulted in a union that stood strong for 50 years.  One of Joe’s greatest legacies is the one he left behind in the Southington Community.  Joe taught physical education in the Southington School District for over thirty years and became infamous around the town as “Coach Szabo.”He was loved by his community as a devoted and popular gym teacher and coach of junior high baseball, softball and soccer.

A paragon of unconditional love and family devotion, Joe was a man whose honesty, politeness, warmth, and wit were treasured by those who had the fortune to know him. Joe was predeceased by his father, Joseph Frank Szabo, Sr., and his mother, Rosetta (Chadsey) Szabo. Their memory remained close to his heart and was often brought to life in his stories and recollections. He is survived by his wife, Christine (Gasecki) Szabo, his daughter, Erika, his son, Christopher, and daughter-in-law Kathy.  He is also survived by his older brother, Richard Szabo and his wife, Holly, and brother-in-law, Stephen Gasecki. Joe was a loving “Pa” to his five grandchildren: Monique, Mason, Sophia, Ellie, and Elias.  

His love and devotion to his family were palpable, remained evident throughout his lifetime, and are hallmarks of his legacy. Joe’s life and love will continue to reverberate in the hearts of all those who were privileged to know him. The most precious lessons he had to share included unconditional love, family devotion, and lifetime friendship. He will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. His memory will live on, not only in the stories that are told about him but also in the lessons he imparted and the love he shared.  Dad, your journey on this earth may have ended, but your spirit, lessons, and love live on in the hearts of those you've left behind. You will never be forgotten! We love you and will miss you every day!

 **UPDATE**  Funeral services will be held at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at the Plantsville Funeral Home, 975 S. Main St., Plantsville with a 9:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at the Immaculate Conception Church, 130 Summer St., Southington. Burial will follow in Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Southington. Calling Hours will be held from 5 – 7 p.m. on Monday, December 18, 2023 at the Plantsville Funeral Home.  For online condolences and directions, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com.