Generous Enfield Businessman, Community Leader Myron Marek Dies

ENFIELD, CT — Myron Marek, one of the most civic-minded, generous small business owners the town of Enfield has ever known, died Friday. He was 91.

For decades, Marek was president and owner of Marek Jewelers, a family-run business founded in 1931 by his father, Wallace Marek. The business operated out of several different locations over the years, but is likely best remembered as being a staple in the heart of the Thompsonville community in the 1950s and 1960s.

A U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War, Myron Marek was one of a handful of small businessmen who annually decorated the Pearl Street business district with holiday lights across the roadway. Other members of that committee included Al LaRussa of LaRussa Appliance Store, Vincent Sferrazza of Vincent's Apparel and Robert Gray of Faber's World of Carpets.

Eventually the store moved to the State Line Plaza on Elm Street, then settled into a longtime home in the Mountain Laurel Shoppes at 786 Enfield Street in the 1980s.

Throughout his tenure, Marek served on the board of directors at Enfield Federal Savings and the former New England Bank. He was president of the Connecticut Jewelers Board and Trade, and was an usher for many years at St. Bernard Church in Hazardville.

His generosity toward community organizations was unparalleled throughout the years. For decades, he sponsored youth sports teams, and contributed countless thousands of dollars in gifts and merchandise to civic groups and charities.

Many family members, colleagues and friends expressed their feelings about Marek on social media following announcement of his passing by his son, Scott.

Marek's niece, Leah Secondo, wrote, "Devoted to his family, his community and his business. A lasting influence on so many. Blessed for he and Aunt Rose to be my godparents. We will miss you! The countless years of memories to hold dearly. You are home Uncle Myron. The end of an era here and an open arms beginning back with Auntie Rose and rest of the family who have left us."

Another niece, Donna Webber, wrote, "Uncle Myron was a beacon of life in our family and will be truly missed."

"Myron was loved by all, I will always remember my many years of working for him. He was a kind and caring man,"wrote longtime employee Alane Landry.

Janet Richardson wrote, "Now remembering all those times we stopped into Marek Jewelers to surprise Nana (Helen Richardson). Myron was so gracious and patient as her excitement overtook the store and all its customers."

"We all must have some piece of jewelry in our possession that came from the family store, and fond memories of our purchases,"wrote Tammie Bousquet.

Marek was predeceased by his beloved wife of 55 years, Rose, in 2011. He is survived by his two children, eight grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and three siblings.

Calling hours are slated for Tuesday, Oct. 24 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels, 61 South Road. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place Wednesday at 10 a.m. at St. Bernard Church, Enfield, followed by burial with full military honors in St. Bernard Cemetery.