Joseph James Opalski

Joseph James Opalski, age 80, a cherished husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Alamance Regional Medical Center in Burlington, North Carolina, surrounded by his devoted family. He was born on September 13, 1945, in Meriden, Connecticut.

Joseph dedicated 30 years of service to Pratt & Whitney Aircraft in Middletown, Connecticut, where he retired as a plant supervisor. His strong work ethic and integrity defined his career, but his greatest devotion was always to his family, who meant everything to him.

He shared 59 beautiful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Laura Worcester Opalski. Together, they built a life rich in love, laughter, and shared experiences. Their enduring partnership grew into a close-knit family, including their beautiful daughters, Lisa Opalski (and her husband, Pasquale Amendola) and Dr. Deborah Opalski (and her spouse, Dr. Michele Erickson).

Family was the center of Joseph’s world. He treasured every moment spent with his loved ones, creating memories that will be cherished by all. Most recently, the family shared a meaningful trip to Europe in June 2025. It was a journey filled with special experiences and heartfelt moments, especially the one in which Joseph climbed 128 steps to kiss the Blarney Stone in Ireland. One of Joseph’s proudest accomplishments, alongside his father, was building the family home in Durham, Connecticut, where he and Laura raised their daughters. The love, strength, and warmth of that home continue today, as their eldest daughter and her family now reside there.

An active and adventurous spirit, Joseph had a deep love for the outdoors. He was an avid golfer, hunter, and fisherman, and later in life found great joy in caring for his yard and cultivating beautiful plants and flowers. He especially delighted in his birds—most notably his beloved hummingbirds—with countless feeders adorning his gardens. Joseph appreciated life’s simple pleasures and was known for his hearty appetite and love of good food, particularly pizza during visits “back home” to Connecticut.

Joseph is survived by his loving wife, Laura; his daughters, Lisa and Deborah; his sister, Cynthia Ann Opalski; and his sister-in-law, Nancy DePino. He is reunited in eternal rest with his son Paul Stanley Opalski, his parents Theodore Martin Opalski and Helen Dorothy Michalczyk Opalski, and his sister Jane Kondracki.

As we say goodbye to a remarkable man, we carry forward the warmth of his love, the strength of his example, and the countless lessons he shared with those fortunate enough to call him family or friend. Joseph James Opalski will be deeply missed and forever remembered in the hearts of all who loved him.

A celebration of Joseph’s life will be held at a later date in Connecticut. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.lowefuneralhome.com.