John "Jack" Kieft, Jr., 81, husband of Alene (Lentini) Kieft, of Charles Mary Drive, Middletown, died on Wednesday, September 25th at UConn Medical Center. He was a lifelong resident of Middletown, son of the late John Kieft Sr. and Helene (Boule) Kieft.

Jack was a veteran serving with the US Navy for five years. After he was discharged, he went to work for himself and was the owner of Portland Carriage Shop for over 30 years. Jack was a true craftsman; he was highly respected and sought after for his attention to detail and impeccable work when it came to restoring corvettes, hot rods, and 32 Fords.

Besides his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Jacqueline Cartelli and her husband Douglas of Old Saybrook; three grandchildren, Gregg, Dominic and Paris Cartelli, two great grandchildren Vincent and Angelina; sister, Jeannine Lis; brother-in-law, Al Lis; as well as two nephews, Justin Lis and his wife Michelle, and Dalton John, as well as many more nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his daughter Jeannine Kieft.

Funeral services were privately held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Hole in the Wall Gang at holeinthewallgang.org . To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.