John M. "Jack" Ponusky

FITCHBURG – John M. “Jack” Ponusky, 83, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Fitchburg on July 28, 1940, a son of the late Alexander and Pauline (Croteau) Ponusky. He graduated from Saint Bernard’s High School in 1958. Jack spent his life in service to others; he enlisted in the US Army where he proudly earned the rank of SGT and served his country until his honorable discharge in 1963. Upon returning home, he was appointed to the Fitchburg Fire Department where his career as a Firefighter spanned 33 years. He loved the camaraderie and serving his Fitchburg community. He was a member of the South Fitchburg Social Club and had served on the board. Jack was a parishioner of Saint Joseph Church, where he was active as a Lector. In his spare time, Jack was an avid hunter and fisherman; he loved being outdoors. Family was the most important aspect of Jack’s life. He was a proud and loving grandfather and great grandfather, who could often be found with a camera in hand video taping life’s great moments. He enjoyed family card nights, all the while telling his many famous stories to everyone gathered around. He will be greatly missed. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Janice R. (Rivard) Ponusky; his children, Dina Ponusky, Jodi Audet and husband Jody, Timothy Ponusky and wife Stephanie all of Fitchburg; grandchildren, Steven Audet, Korey Ponusky, Kirsten Perham, Katie Ponusky, Tyler Ponusky; great grandchildren, Emmett Perham and Rylee-Jo Audet, all of Fitchburg; siblings, Donna Squires of SD, Linda Baumhoffer of Marthas Vineyard, Sandy Murphy of Fitchburg; many nieces and nephews. Jack was predeceased by his brothers Alexander Ponusky of Fitchburg and Robert Ponusky of NY. Calling hours will be held in the Isabelle and Anderson Funeral Home, 316 Clarendon St., Fitchburg on Wednesday, August 9, from 4-7pm. The funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, August 10 in Saint Joseph Church, 49 Woodland St., Fitchburg at 10:00 am. Burial will follow in Saint Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial contribution to the Fitchburg Fire EMS and Equipment Fund, 33 North St., Fitchburg, MA 01420

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John M. "Jack" Ponusky

July 28, 1940 - August 2, 2023