Mark J. Gawlak, of Deep River, Connecticut, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, April 30, leaving a legacy of laughter, love, and devotion to family.

Mark's greatest pride and joy in life was his son, Ben. His love for Ben was immeasurable, and he spoke of him often with deep pride.

Born and raised in a large, close-knit family, Mark carried forward the values instilled in him by his parents, the late Janina and Charles Gawlak. He shared a lifelong bond with his siblings and took immense pride in his role as an uncle (UM), celebrating the accomplishments of his many nieces and nephews: MaeLynn, Andrew, Megan, Steven, Mikayla, Jake, Katie, Edward, Maeve, Fiona, Lizzie, Rachel, Elizabeth, and Ashley.

The annual Thanksgiving cousin card party was a cherished tradition he looked forward to each year, bringing together family, laughter, and friendly but fierce competition. He also deeply valued time spent with 'friends like family,' especially the Grace and Bartek families, and Fred and Joannie Salafia.

Mark dedicated 34 years of service to Wesleyan University's Center for the Arts, where he worked in facilities and technical operations. His commitment and reliability made him a valued member of the community, and he took great pride in his work.

Known for his sense of humor, Mark had a natural ability to make people laugh and feel at ease. Outside of work, he found joy in cooking, which became one of his favorite pastimes. He enjoyed traveling, fishing, and playing golf. He also had a deep appreciation for music and loved to sing, often bringing warmth and energy to any gathering.

Mark is survived by his son, Benjamin Gawlak of Deep River, CT; his sisters, Christine Raissis and her husband Nicholas of Southington, CT, and Margaret Dougherty and her husband Michael of Brewster, NY; and his brothers, Charles Gawlak and his wife Ann Marie of Middletown, CT, Matthew Gawlak and his wife Linda of Middlefield, CT, and John Gawlak and his wife Barbara of Dunnellon, FL, and Amy Gawlak, sister-in-law, Middletown, CT.

In addition to his parents, Janina and Charles Gawlak, he was predeceased by his sister, Mary Gawlak, and his brother, Michael Gawlak of Middletown.

Mark will be remembered for his humor, his generous spirit, and above all, his unwavering love for his family. He will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver Street, Middletown on May 8th, 2026, from 10-11 a.m. followed by a funeral service at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery in Middletown immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mark's memory may be made to the Mary Gawlak Scholarship Fund at Mercy High School, 1740 Randolph Road, Middletown, CT 06457. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.