Plaza, John J. January 22, 1965 - September 13, 2025

John J. Plaza (née Jan Płaza) passed away on September 13 at his home in Bronxville, New York. John was born in Kolbuszowa, Poland, on January 22, 1965, to Józef Płaza and Zofia Konefał and was raised in his family’s hometown of Dzikowiec. He graduated from technical school and later immigrated to New York and the United States in 1990, where he began his career as a carpenter. He married Grace (née Grażyna) Pas in 1992.

John and Grace lived in Brooklyn, New York, for a few years and had two beautiful children, Alex and Emily. In 2005, the family moved to Bronxville and adopted their dog Melody, whom John adored. John was passionate about many things: cooking, skiing, soccer, cars, and history to name a few. He was a fan of Manchester United, Stal Mielec, the New York Rangers, and just about any sport that the Polish National Team would play. Above all, his true passion was his family.

John was known by a few different names, Johnny, Jan, Janek, Tata, Mr. Plaza, or even simply the man who walks Melody. Everyone who had the privilege of knowing John, regardless of how they came to know him, encountered the same infectiously friendly personality that welcomed strangers and close friends alike. He was a beloved member of the 64 Sagamore Road Community and a proud member of the Church of Saint Joseph in Bronxville.

John is survived by his beloved children, Alexander and Emily; wife, Grace; mother Zofia; and brothers Stanley and Leszek. He is predeceased by his father, Józef Płaza.

Close family, friends from work or the community, and even acquaintances made by chance could sense John’s warm presence and special heart. He could talk to just about anyone, with a sense of humor and subtle smile that could comfort the soul and fill up your heart. He seldom complained, he never shied away from lending a helping hand, and he had a reverence for the simple life that could reaffirm anyone of the meaning of a life well lived. It is that faith and love for family that will endure in all those who had the pleasure to meet him.