John M. Pawlak of Andover, Massachusetts passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, with Suzanne, his partner in life and love, by his side, and their beloved Yorkies close at heart. He leaves behind a loving family of brothers Ed (Jane), Jim (Reenie) and the late Stephen (Jean) Pawlak, cherished nieces and nephews and, Suzanne’s devoted Kavanagh family: William (deceased), Joan, Bill (Linda), Kathy (Bob), Caroline and Sarah.
John was born on September 17, 1952, in Brooklyn, NY to Helen and Marion Pawlak where his earliest memories began above his Babci and Dziadzi's White Eagle Bakery. Life was simple and sweet ?lled with family, laughter, and fresh Polish pastries. His family later moved to Farmingdale, Long Island where he became a spirited young man, an avid reader, a talented musician, a soaring athlete, 1st baseman and dependable Bethpage caddy. Sundays faithfully returned him to Brooklyn, to family traditions and Polish pastries.
As rifleman in the Color Guard, John performed bold aerial rifle maneuvers with unflinching focus. At home, he showed a similar dedication, rallying his mother to achieve her dream of becoming a Registered Nurse. Among his lifetime loyalties was the Yankees, win or lose!
At Farmingdale High School, John found both purpose and joy in running cross-country and track, something he carried for life. He ran the Boston Marathon twice, ?nishing under 2:45 – impressive! For John, the meaning wasn’t in the time itself, but the discipline, rhythm, and camaraderie the sport offered. His fascination with weather and his desire to serve others led him to the University of Lowell where he earned a degree in both meteorology and mathematics for secondary education.
At Lowell Catholic High School, he brought his master’s in Education (Rivier) to life by leading the “Education 2000” vision, advancing the school’s curriculum into the new millennium and helping raise $4 million. John had a way of inspiring others to believe in themselves and as coach and educator at Westford Academy and Lowell Catholic, his gift touched many. With a grin and burst of energy, he’d rally others forward with a signature rouse, e.g. “Hoorah, Master Chief.” His athletic teams earned championships and he received honors as both Coach and Teacher of the Year.
He carried an infectious spirit that made challenges seem possible and learning feel exciting. To know John was to be lifted by that energy. His story lives on in all of us, every time we dare to care, act boldly or simply give thanks – despite the weather!
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lowell Catholic High School, Holy Family Hospital in Methuen, and Andover Fire and Police.
Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, July 26th, 2026, from 3-6 pm in the Burke-Magliozzi Funeral Home, 390 North Main St, Andover, MA. John's Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, July 27th, 2026 at 10 am in St. Augustine Church, 43 Essex St, Andover, MA.