Chicopee bids farewell to a remarkable soul, John H. Amlaw, Jr., (Soltys), who graced our lives with his presence and passed away on August 27, 2023, at the age of 58. Born on May 20, 1965, in Holyoke, MA to his loving parents, John H. Amlaw, Sr. (Soltys) and Carol Amlaw (Brien), John's journey was one of both joy and challenge.
He was a graduate of Chicopee Comprehensive High School class of 1983. He also attended Porter and Chester and Asnuntuck Community College. He was employed at Sonoco Products Co. in Holyoke for 33 years.
For those fortunate enough to have known him, John was a beacon of light, an individual whose company enriched their lives in immeasurable ways. If you had the privilege of sharing moments with him, you undoubtedly understand what a gift it was. He was a mosaic of experiences – at times a joyful companion, and yes, occasionally a bit of a handful. Yet, these facets only added to the depth of his character and the colorful tapestry he wove into the lives of those around him.
John's legacy is woven into the hearts of his family, including his sister Theresa Devlin with husband James Devlin, his brother David Amlaw (Soltys), with companion Lisa Midura, all residing in Chicopee. Additionally, his sister Audrie Vantangoli with husband Nicholas Vantangoli of Ware, along with his cherished nieces and nephews: Anthony Devlin and Jillian Lantco with husband Brandon, Sophia and Vincenzo Vantangoli, all remember him with affection and gratitude.
A Liturgy of Christian Burial is scheduled for Friday, September 8, 2023, at 11:00 AM at St. Anne’s Church in Chicopee, MA, followed by inurnment at St. Rose De Lima Cemetery, Chicopee. In honor of John's memory, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause that resonates deeply with his generous spirit.
While John's physical presence may have left us, his indelible impact on our lives ensures that he will forever remain in our thoughts and hearts. To express your sympathy and share cherished memories, please visit John’s memorial page at
www.nefcc.net
. John H. Amlaw, Jr., is an embodiment of a life well-lived, a lucky star that illuminated our existence, and he will be profoundly missed.
New England Funeral & Cremation Center, 25 Mill Street, Springfield, MA has been entrusted with the arrangements.