Thomas A. Bacik, 73, of Stratford, loving Husband, Daddy and Papa extraordinaire, passed away January 10, 2017 at Bridgeport Hospital. Tom grew up in Stratford, CT, son of the late James Bacik and Mary (Timko) Bacik. Determined to serve our country, he enlisted with the Airforce before he was of legal age and served from 1961-1964 during the Vietnam War. After his services to our country, Tom briefly worked as a draftsman for Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. He then joined Honda Automobiles of Westport to help his sister and brother-in-law with their new business adventure. He dedicated more than 40 years of his life, retiring there as Sales Manager. Tom had the biggest heart and was an incredibly devoted family man to "his girls" and grandkids. His wife, Karen, was the love of his life and he always credited to owing his amazing life to her. Even with his 6-day work week he still always managed to make time for his three daughters with years of daddy-daughter Indian Princesses, wisdom and patience coaching basketball throughout their elementary school years while surviving their teenage years even in the face of twins. Understanding the importance of life's lessons he made sure his girls were well equipped. Tom taught his girls to be great softball players, quasi – mechanics, quasi-carpenters and proficient in the art of cards, particularly blackjack. To him Super Bowl Sunday was the most magical day of the year after Christmas and with both, meant free reign of the junk food aisle and all presents his girls could wish for. Known to all as Papa, since the birth of his first grandchild Jimmy, his grandchildren became his world and the focus for his love. He embraced every moment he could give to them which kept him young, with forever memories of nerf gun wars, princess movies on the computer, hugs and an unlimited supply of desserts. Papa is survived by his loving wife Karen, daughters Kara and her husband Harry Gruss, Kristi Bacik and Kim Bacik; sister Jean Casey, sister-in-law Jeannette Bacik ,brother Donald and his wife Connie Bacik;
brother-in-law Ronald and wife Nancy Spehle (of Wisconsin); sister-in-law Mary Ellen and husband Jeffrey Zachman ( of Minnesota);
and his biggest pride and joy - his grandchildren, James (Jimmy) Galpin, Kassandra Gruss and Carlye Gruss. In addition, he loved all of his nieces and nephews to pieces, and grateful to have and love so many great-nieces and great-nephews. Tom also felt grateful and privileged to have so many incredible friends he regarded as family. Tom was predeceased by his sister, Mary and husband Larry Tirreno and brother, James Bacik. Proudly, Papa was a registered organ donor and his wishes have been respected with the donation of his eyes in honor of his grandson. In addition, the family wishes to convey their sincerest appreciation to Dr. Frank Spano and the numerous times he saved his life and the kindness and love he has shown our family for the last 20+ years. With respect to Tom's wishes there will be no service however, a celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations are made to LOF Adaptive Skiers, c/o Karen Bacik, 75 Beth Drive, Stratford, CT 06614.