Edward H Pekrul

Edward H. Pekrul of Torrington passed away peacefully in the presence of his family on October 2, 2023, at the age of 76. He was born in 1947 in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Harwinton. Edward later made Torrington his home. He was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Marion Rehm Pekrul, his brother Tommy Pekrul, and step-parents Barbara and Martin Nettleton of Harwinton.

Ed graduated from Lewis Mills High School in 1966, excelling in varsity baseball and basketball as co-captain for both teams. As shortstop for American Legion Post 38, he was dubbed a "defensive genius" by local sportswriter Owen Canfield.  Ed’s skills on the field caught the attention of the legendary Frank "Porky" Vieira, who recruited him to play for the University of New Haven Chargers, where he earned a Business Degree in 1971.

Sports remained a significant part of Ed’s life even after college. He was an avid softball player, runner, and cyclist. He enjoyed tennis and was a talented golfer. Edward also dedicated his time to coaching his son Bryan’s Torrington Little League and Babe Ruth baseball and PAL basketball teams. He later cheered on his grandchildren from the sidelines. 

Edward owned and operated Litchfield County Pest Control, earning him the nickname "The Bug Man." In addition, he served as a Corrections Officer at the Litchfield County Jail and Malony Prison for many years.  Ed enjoyed soaking in the sun, his “big dogs,” and especially loved spoiling his grandchildren.

Ed is survived by his four children: daughter Wendy Pataky and her fiancé Michael Cogan, daughter Ivy Brenker-Brochu and her husband Joe, son Bryan and his wife Becky, and daughter Abby Tomlinson and her husband Rick. Edward also leaves behind six beloved grandchildren: Charlie and Tommy Pataky, Adelaide and Graeme Tomlinson, Palmer, and Sawyer Pekrul; his wife of 37 years, Diane Pekrul; his sister Debbie Vincent; and several nieces and nephews.

Friends may call Thursday, Oct 12 from 5-7 PM at Phalen Funeral Home.  A Celebration of Life will be held Nov 25, at Noon at Torrington Country Club. 

In lieu of flowers the family requests contributions be made to any of the following local youth sports programs: American Legion P38 Baseball, Torrington Little League, or PAL Basketball. 

  www.phalenfuneral.com

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