WEBSTER – Nicholas “Nick” Mochnacz, 91, died Thursday, June 11, 2015 in Webster Manor after a long illness.
He leaves his companion and caregiver, Lorraine Sharples of Webster; a sister, Walentyna Slodobchicova of Moldova, Poland; a godson, Dr. Jon Wojcik of Great Barrington; and 2 nephews.
He was born and raised in Woldzyn, Poland, son of Alexander and Katarzyna (Tawgien) Mochnacz. He moved to England in 1948 and immigrated to Worcester in 1952. After living in Leicester for 27 years, he moved to Webster in 1997.
He was a lance corporal in the Polish Army, serving in the Middle East and then in the campaign in Italy from April, 1944 to February, 1945, where he fought at Monte Cassino. He was awarded the Cross of Monte Cassino and the Cross for Valor. After the war, he helped in the occupation years, working for both the British and American Armies.
Mr. Mochnacz was a farmer in Poland. He worked as a meat cutter for Western Pork Packers in Worcester for 16 years, and then as a grinder at L. Hardy Company, also in Worcester, for 15 years. He retired in 1986.
He was a loyal member of Holy Trinity National Catholic Church. He was an active member of the Polish American Veterans in Webster and participated in the honor guard for the Webster-Dudley Veterans Council: he always carried the American flag at their ceremonies. He also belonged to the PAV Post 52 in Worcester. He was a member the AFL–CIO Meat Cutters Union during his working years.
The family would like to thank the staff on Unit One at Webster Manor for their concern and care for Nick during his stay there.
A graveside service will be held at noon on Saturday, June 27, in Holy Trinity Cemetery, New Boston Road, Dudley, with the Rev. Robert Frederickson officiating. The Webster-Dudley Veterans Council will perform the military honors. A celebration of his life will follow at the PAV Hall, 30 Ray Street, Webster. There are no calling hours. Donations in his name may be made to the Polish American Veterans, 30 Ray Street, Webster, MA 01570. Arrangements are under the direction of Sitkowski & Malboeuf Funeral Home, 340 School Street, Webster.