Stephen David Gatchek, 55, of 8 Rocket St., Westerly, died Sunday at The Westerly Hospital.
Stephen was born in Hartford on April 28, 1948 the son of Lillian L. (Bradshaw) Gatchek of West Mystic and the late John J. Gatchek. He was a graduate of Fitch High School and later served in the US Army during the Vietnam Era stationed at Ft. Eustis as a helicopter mechanic.
He was formerly employed at Soucy Tires in Westerly for 20 years. He was a member of the Portuguese Holy Ghost Society and took great pleasure in attending race car competitions.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Palm Ann Bruno of Westerly, his former wife, Kathleen Gatchek of Pawcatuck, a sister, Susan Montgomery of Pawcatuck, a son, Christopher Gatchek of Florida, a grandson, Christopher Gatchek Jr, 2 nieces, Ellen and Erin Montgomery, uncle Edward Bradshaw of West Mystic, his aunt, Catherine Bradshaw of West Mystic, and his aunt and uncle, Elvira and Henry Thibeault.
The family will greet relatives and friends at The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Historic downtown Mystic on Thursday from 10-11am. A service will be conducted at 11am with burial following in Elm Grove Cemetery. Donations may be made to The Union Baptist Church Deacons Fund, 188 High St., Mystic 06355 or the American Cancer Society, 190 Gov. Winthrop Blvd, New London Ct 06320.