Victor Galecki, devoted husband of the late Kathy Galecki, loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, at the age of 88, surrounded by the love of his family. 

He was born on April 28, 1938, in Serock, Poland, to Emilia and Julian Galecki.  Victor’s early life was marked by hardship and perseverance. After losing his mother as a toddler, he endured a difficult childhood during the years of World War II.  Despite the challenges he faced, Victor grew into a man defined by strength, humility, kindness, and an unwavering work ethic.

In 1968, Victor married the love of his life, Kathy Zalusky. Together they built a life on their farm along the beautiful shores of Lake Święcajty in Węgorzewo, Poland. From dawn until dusk, they worked tirelessly on the farm to provide for themselves and their son, Mirek. During the summer months, they warmly welcomed vacationers from across Poland and Germany to their farm, creating lasting friendships and cherished memories.

In 1978, Victor and his family emigrated to America in pursuit of a better life and to reunite with Kathy’s siblings and parents. He was deeply grateful to become part of a loving extended family and embraced every opportunity that his new home provided. Victor worked tirelessly for many years at E.H. Titchener, where he eventually retired. Through long hours and double shifts, he achieved the dreams he and Kathy shared — first a car, then a home, and a stable future for their family.

Victor was a humble, hardworking, and generous man who never hesitated to help others. He especially cherished working alongside his son on various projects, always offering a helping hand, practical advice, and steady encouragement. In his later years, he taught his son the value of slowing down and being patient. Victor was the kind of man who consistently put others before himself and never turned away anyone in need. He was also a devoted member of Sacred Heart Ukrainian Catholic Church.

He also had a playful spirit and a unique sense of humor. Victor was a true “smart alec” who loved joking around and teasing people just to bring smiles and laughter to their faces. He loved telling stories, which could often become very lengthy. 

Above all else, Victor’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his devoted son, Mirek Galecki, and daughter-in-law, Anetka Galecki, whom he lovingly referred to as his own daughter, proudly saying he had two children. He was a proud and adoring grandfather to Anya and Michael, who brought endless happiness to his life. He treasured helping raise them from infancy, playing with them, and taking them on special trips for KFC and for ice cream — moments they will forever hold close to their hearts.

Victor is also survived by his sister, Teodozja Domańska, and his half-brother, Jerzy Galecki as well as many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Kathy to whom he was married for 52 years, as well as his two sisters, Stefania Fandrejewska and Jadwiga Chmielewska.

During the last seven years of his life, Victor resided at Hilltop JGJ United Methodist Nursing Home, and during his final year, at Willow Point Nursing Home. His family is deeply grateful for the loving, and compassionate care provided by the staff at both nursing homes. Their kindness, patience, and dedication brought comfort not only to Victor, but also to all who loved him.

Victor’s life was one of resilience, sacrifice, devotion, humor, and love. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, generosity, deep family bonds, and countless memories filled with laughter that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Victor’s memory can be made to the Sacred Heart Ukrainian Catholic Church Building Fund.

Friends and family will be received at Sacred Heart Ukrainian Catholic Church, 230 Ukrainian Hill Road, Johnson City, NY, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 29, 2026. A funeral service will be offered by Very Rev. Archpriest Teodor B. Czabala, Jr.  at 10am. Burial services will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Johnson City, NY.