Thomas J Hanecak

Thomas J. Hanecak, 77 of Norfolk, passed away Friday September 18, at his home he built with his father 55 years ago, surrounded by his loving family.  He was the husband of Rosanne Marino Hanecak.   Born in Torrington, CT on March 27, 1943, he was the son of the late John L. and Mary (Zajac) Hanecak.   He was a graduate of Sacred Heart; Litchfield High school and he also attended the Julliard School of Music in Hartford.  He served in the Army National Guard during the Vietnam war.

He had worked for Farley Lumber in Torrington, CL & P and later for SNET, retiring after 30 years from SBC Global.   He was a member of the Torrington Elks Lodge, the Veneta Society, the Germania Club and Torrington Country Club.  He restored several antique cars and was the proud owner of a 1956 Ford Thunderbird convertible and attended many classic car shows in the area, taking home several first prize trophies.

Tom was an accomplished guitarist – a classic jazz aficionado.   While at the Julliard School of Music, he was invited to New York to play a solo at that branch of the school.   His love for music extended to his singing and dancing.  He performed several times on Dick Clark’s show – American Bandstand.   Thomas performed in several night clubs throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts including Gracie Allen’s, Tiny’s, the VFW and was sought out for private events as well.   He loved to be surrounded by friends and family and was always quick with a joke or a story; even a song that would make you smile.  He will be missed greatly by his family.

In addition to his wife, he leaves a daughter Heather Hanecak of West Granby CT, a son Michael J. Hanecak of Sandisfield, MA, granddaughter Shelby Zorick also from West Granby, CT and a brother Stephen Hanecak and his wife Debbie, of Litchfield and several nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by a son, Todd Hanecak and his brothers John Leonard and James of Litchfield along with his beloved companion Obi-Wan Kenobi.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday September 24 at 11AM at Saint Peter Church in Torrington.  Friends may call Wednesday from 5:00 to 7:00PM at Phalen Funeral Home.  Memorial contributions can be made the Foothills VNA at 32 Union Street Winsted, CT 06098 or the Norfolk Lions Club Ambulance P.O. Box 399 Norfolk, CT 06058.   Online memorials www.Phalenfuneral.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas J Hanecak, please visit our floral store.