Jeffrey John Vrlik

Jeffrey John Vrlik of Seymour was taken suddenly and far too soon on July 8, 2022, at the age of 54. Jeff was the beloved and adored best friend, partner, and husband of nearly 29 years to Kathie (Pucci) Vrlik and much-loved father of their children Kellen, Aidan and Kyla. Jeff was so proud of his children from the moment they were born and gave each of them their names. He loved them unconditionally and was always involved in their activities, their biggest fan and most importantly, their friend. Jeff's family, which includes his beloved mother, Carol "Meema" Vrlik of East Harwich, Massachusetts, his treasured sister Janna Said and her husband Amir who was like a brother as well as their sons Zak and Zayn whom he loved. Jeff was equally adored by his mother-in-law Lorraine "G-Ma" Pucci and his "brothers" David and Michael Pucci and their spouses Sarah and Catie, respectively and his niece Mari Pucci. Jeff will also be missed by his numerous cousins and his friends who are family: Bonnie and Bill Halligan and their children, Tony and Sue Meneo and their children, Dawn Spilsbury, and so many, many more. As much as Jeff was adored by his family, which is beyond measure, Jeff was treasured by so many, many others. When Jeff became a nurse, his hands were blessed, and he spent every day from that moment forward extending that blessing to others. After starting his career at St Vincent's Medical Center, he joined the staff at the VA Hospital in West Haven where he served Veterans in the Emergency Department. He was also a member of the staff of the ICU at Griffin Hospital in Derby for 10 years. Jeff's family was constantly regaled with stories of his skill, his compassion and his inimitable way of supporting his fellow nurses and staff with a constant smile, an always ready story or joke, words of wisdom or a hug. When not serving others, Jeff delighted in throwing pottery and had grown quite skilled at it. He was always working on special artwork for his colleagues and would surprise them with lovingly crafted pieces for weddings, promotions or ‘just because'. He also loved travelling with his family and friends, especially to the United Kingdom, from where we had recently returned. Life for Jeff was full of adventure, and he and Kathie were always planning the next trip. Jeff was the proud "Fire Guy" at Legends of Fear and was loved by staff and owners alike. Customers would emerge from the woods and Jeff would delight in hearing their tales as he reached into a blazing bonfire (with gloves of course) to their shock and awe. Jeff loved building things, watching soccer and hockey (and countless pottery videos) and puttering in the yard. Jeff was warmly greeted at the Other Side by his father, John Vrlik, his father-in-law Enio Pucci, his nephew Alex Pucci, his dear friends Betsy and Frank and his long-time canine companion Ozzy with whom he is now taking long walks all over town. He was also met by his Aunt Rita, his Aunt Mary, his cousin Mark and so many others who we know welcomed him with a cup of coffee, a Guinness and love. Jeffrey John Vrlik was a diamond taken from us way too soon. He was bright, strong, multi-faceted, precious and beautiful. We all miss his laugh, his smile, his hugs, his kindness, his patience, and his wisdom and can't believe he will no longer walk through the door. Jeff loved everyone, and everyone loved him. The world lost one of the best when he was called away and we will only understand why when we meet him again. Final arrangements are being lovingly overseen by Miller Ward Funeral Home and calling hours will be Friday, July 15th, from 4-7 pm. A graveside service will be conducted at Mountain Meadows Cemetery, 117 Mountain Road in Seymour on Saturday July 16th at 10:30 a.m. The family plans to set up a charitable foundation to try to honor Jeff's legacy to give back to the community he loved. While doing this will take time, we ask, if you wish, in lieu of flowers to send donations through the funeral home. Gone too soon. Always Loved. Never Forgotten. Cemetery Details Mountain Meadows Cemetery 117 Mountain Road Seymour, CT 06483 Previous Events Visitation JUL 15. 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM (ET) Miller-Ward Funeral Home 260 Bank Street Seymour, CT 06483 Graveside Service JUL 16. 10:30 AM (ET) Mountain Meadows Cemetery 117 Mountain Road Seymour, CT 06483