Obituary of Joseph Paul Miezejeski

Joseph Paul Miezejeski, former Deep River First Selectman and World War II Veteran, passed away peacefully at his home, Joe's Christmas Tree Farm, on March 13, 2017 at the age of 91. Joseph was born in the caring community of Deep River to Vincent Miezejeski and Anna Ryzner Miezejeski. He was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Evelyn Dix Miezejeski and by his eldest son, Daniel Joseph Miezejeski. Joseph was the ninth of thirteen children and was predeceased by eight brothers: Charles (Mike), Thomas, Paul, Peter, John, Edward, Vincent and Stanley. Admired for his gentle manner and devotion to family, he will be profoundly missed by children Susan Miezejeski, Steven Miezejeski, Alan Miezejeski and Dianne Hearn, thirteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by sisters, Lillian, Genevieve, Yon and Mary. Recognizing Deep River as a unique community, Joe devoted himself to enhancing the town he loved. He was First Selectman for eight years and his strategic vision and dedication were instrumental in elevating the quality of life for fellow residents. The broad spectrum of his legacy includes the creation of Plattwood Park, the renovation of the prized Town Hall Auditorium, the expansion of Devitt Field, initiating the development of senior housing and securing grants to create Plattwood Industrial Park. Joe, a lifelong grower and nurseryman, added to Deep River's beauty by planting flowering trees along Main Street. He also transplanted trees he had grown from seed to the lawn of the picturesque flat iron building that serves as Deep River's Town Hall. Joe was held in high regard for the impact he had on his hometown and it is truly gratifying for those who loved him that his accomplishments will be enjoyed for many generations to come. Joe and his late wife Evelyn were known for their summer picnics, especially the Democratic Party Picnics, where they hosted governors Ella Grasso and Bill O'Neil, Senator Chris Dodd, Congressman Sam Gejdenson and hundreds of Deep River residents. Joe was legendary for his herculean work ethic. Born into farm life, the pleasure he derived from hard work was evident in his many pursuits, from his business Plains Nursery, to his contributions as First Selectman and beyond to his retirement project, Joe's Tree Farm, where it is estimated he planted over 30,000 Christmas trees. His love of work branched out to numerous volunteer activities such as the Antique Veterans Honor Guard, the Deep River Historical Society and the Town Hall Restoration Committee. Joe's fascination with nature and love of travel prompted multiple cross-country road trips. Favorite destinations included the Redwood, Sequoia, Yellowstone and Petrified Forest National Parks and the Alaskan wilderness. Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at the Deep River Congregational Church on Sunday, April 23rd at 2:00 pm. A gathering in the adjoining hall will follow. Contributions in Joe's memory may be made to the Deep River Historical Society. Please visit Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home website to share a memory or express condolences.