Teofil Raymond Czaja, 93, of Rockfall, beloved husband of Rose (Sienna) Czaja, passed away on December 3, 2023 at Middlesex Hospital.  Ray was born on 3/27/30 in Middletown to the late Teofil and Mary (Franczyk) Czaja.  He attended St. Mary's School and Middletown High where he participated in Tigers football and track.

Ray and Rose enjoyed 71 years of marriage.  Ray was a veteran of the US Army serving in Germany during the Korean conflict where he became lifelong friends with the Wegman family.  Ray worked at Pratt & Whitney as a draftsman until his retirement.  He was a drummer in many Polka bands the last one The Musical Cavaliers.

Besides his loving wife, Ray leaves to mourn his passing his children, Karen (Henry) Stein, Raymond Czaja, Gregory Czaja and Kevin (Mary) Czaja.  Grandchildren Aaron Stein, Rebecca (Anupam) Adhikari, Joshua Stein, Rachel (James) Higgins and Patrick (Baylee) Czaja.  His precious Great-Grandchildren Maya and Leela (little Karen) Adhikari, Rhys Higgins and munchkins Jax and Zephyr Czaja. Also devoted son in law Mark Stein and kitty Tegra. Ray was pre-deceased by his sister Thadea Jakielo and nephew James Jakielo.

Ray was the center of our family.  He was a wonderful, loving husband, dad, grandpa and grandpa-grandpa.  We will miss him so much! He enjoyed watching UCONN Husky sports especially girls basketball but most of all he loved spending time with family especially with his great grandchildren.

Thanks to Gregory Czaja who cared for Ray allowing him to remain at home until his passing and to Raymond Czaja who was there daily to help out. We would also like to thank the Middlesex Health aides who gave Ray weekly showers.

There will be no calling hours.  Graveside services will be held at Middlefield Cemetery at 350 Main St. Middlefield at 11 a.m. on Saturday December 16th.  Those who wish may send memorial contributions to a charity of your choice. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.