Very Reverend Joseph R. Krusienski

Very Reverend Joseph R. Krusienski, 75, of the Plantsville section of Southington, entered into the eternal rest of the Lord, on Saturday, June 28, 2025, with his children and close friends at his side at the HOCC after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. He was the devoted husband of Lorraine Drazba, who predeceased him just a few months ago in November 2024.

He was born on June 30, 1949, in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, to the late John and Anna (Sopp) Krusienski. From a young age, he felt a deep calling to serve God. After graduating high school, he followed this calling by attending the Savonarola Theological Seminary of the Polish National Catholic Church (PNCC) in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and was ordained to the priesthood in 1970.

For 55 years, he faithfully served the PNCC, dedicating his life to his faith, his church, and his parishioners, most notably St. Casimir’s Parish in Wallingford and his beloved home parish, Holy Trinity in Plantsville. In 1985, he was elevated to Administrative Senior Priest and served as Senior of the Southwest Seniorate of the Eastern Diocese of the PNCC. His service extended beyond the pulpit, as he served as the chairman of the Eastern Diocese Clergy Conference and Chaplain at Kurs Youth Camp at Spójnia Farm and contributed to the Eastern Diocese Youth Commission, Liturgical Commission, United Choirs, and the Supreme Council of the PNCC. Affectionately known as Father Joe, his life was a reflection of unwavering devotion—to God, to the Church, and to every parishioner he served.

Father Joe’s service to others also shined through his dedication to Freemasonry. He was affiliated with Compass Lodge No. 9 for over 51 years and was also an active member of Ashlar Lodge No. 332, both in Wallingford, CT. He served with distinction in numerous roles, including Worshipful Master, Chaplain and Grand Chaplain. In 1974, He was knighted in the York Rite of Freemasonry through St. Elmo Commandery No. 9 of Waterbury, CT and served as Eminent Commander. He served as Eminent Grand Prelate of the Grand Commandery Knights Templar of CT and was currently serving as Associate Grande Prelate. He was also affiliated with the Connecticut College No. 17 York Rite Sovereign College, the Keystone No. 27 chapter of the Royal Arch Masons, the Hamilton No. 9 chapter of the Royal and Select Masters and The Sphinx Shriners. In 2017, he was honored with the 33rd degree of the Scottish Rite, the highest recognition in Freemasonry, for his distinguished service and lifelong dedication. This was truly an honor that he held deep within his heart.

As a dutiful member of his local community, Joseph also served as a volunteer firefighter for Engine Company 2 in Plantsville, CT where he was known as “Rev Joe.” He joined the force in 1977 and served as Second Lieutenant in 1984, First Lieutenant in 1986 and Captain from 1988-1990. He was made a lifetime member in 2009. He was still serving as Chaplain for the Southington and Naugatuck fire departments.

Anyone that met Father Joe saw his zest for life, his optimistic outlook and his ability to not sweat the small stuff. Despite having many distinguished roles, he was down to earth and understood people. While he did not have much time for pure leisure, he enjoyed fishing, talking cars, watching the Steelers, eating whole belly clams and grilling a good steak. He loved the lottery, and although he never won the jackpot, he surely won at living a full and complete life.

While Joseph had many titles in his life, the most important ones were dad and grandpa. He is survived by his son, Jacob Krusienski and his wife Melissa of Halfmoon, NY, and his daughter, Lisa Berliner and her husband Nicholas of Southington, CT. He leaves behind four beloved grandchildren: Kyrah, Brynleigh, Luke, and Zachary. He is also survived by his sister Janis Cutright and her husband Travis of Canonsburg, PA, his niece Tracie, and his two treasured cats, Tiger and Abby.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Holy Trinity and Saint Casimir's Parish, 200 Summer St., Plantsville, CT.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 10:00 am at Holy Trinity Polish National Catholic Church. Please meet directly at the church. Please use the following link to join the church service virtually (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDW6mMkc4YBkCYc1MVpSqLA). There will also be a Masonic service at Ashlar Village, 74 Cheshire Rd, Wallingford, CT at 3:00 pm. All are invited to attend. Calling hours will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Plantsville Funeral Home, 975 S. Main St., Plantsville. Final resting place will be Saint Stanislaus Cathedral Cemetery in Scranton, Pennsylvania. For online condolences and directions, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com.