Gerald F. Pietruska

Gerald F. “Jerry” Pietruska, 78, of Westport, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, November 26, 2023. He was the husband of Elizabeth A. (Cetola) Pietruska, with whom he shared 53 wonderful years of marriage. Along with his wife, he leaves two daughters, Jamie Pietruska, son-in-law Jason Burns and their sons Miles and Silas, Jodie Pietruska and son-in-law Ryan Stankiewicz, a brother, Stanley A. Pietruska, Jr. (late wife Anne Pietruska), several cousins, and a niece and nephew. Jerry was the son of the late Stanley and Helen (Kaminski) Pietruska.

Jerry earned his Bachelor’s degree in chemistry and his Master’s degree in Physics from UMass Dartmouth (SMU) and taught chemistry and physics at Tiverton High School and Bristol Community College for 46 years. He had a passion for science and helped generations of students to succeed. Former high-school students reported that they sailed through college chemistry and physics thanks to what their beloved Mr. Pietruska taught them. College students sang his praises as a rigorous and dedicated teacher and, in many cases, the best professor they ever had. An avid drummer, Jerry was the percussionist in the Charlie Perry Orchestra in the 1960s and 1970s. In addition to music, Jerry enjoyed playing golf and tennis, and he coached the Tiverton High School tennis team to its first state championship.

Jerry loved being out on the water, deep sea-fishing with his father and brother and quahogging with his friends. He also delighted in yardwork, finding joy in splitting wood and maintaining a meticulous lawn. Jerry spent his life helping others. Whether it was helping with chemistry homework, hauling firewood, shoveling snow, mowing lawns, or checking in on friends, Jerry was always ready to lend a hand. Above all, Jerry was a family man. He was a loving, doting husband and father, and he loved his grandsons beyond measure. He spent many summers camping with his family, always ready with his camera to capture every memory. He will be forever loved and missed.

Services were private.