Henry "Hank" Poplaski

Henry R. “Hank” (Poplawski) Poplaski, a lifetime resident of New Britain, passed away Saturday, July 17, 2021, after a brief illness while in Hartford Hospital. “Hank”, as he was most well known by friends and customers, was an automotive repair business owner of Hank’s Automotive on Farmington Avenue for 60 years. He dutifully served thousands of individuals and businesses throughout New Britain and the Central Connecticut area.

He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict, and was a member of the Board of Directors of People’s Savings Bank for many years, and was a lifetime faithful parishioner of Holy Cross Church until his death.

“Hank” was a member of numerous civic groups and organizations, including the local Veterans of Foreign Ward (VFW Post 511), and lifetime member of the New Britain Elks Lodge 957. He loved antique cars and shows, and owned for years a near mint condition 1937 Chrysler which he cared and loved for decades.

He and the love of his life for 65 years, Irene Szurley Poplaski, along with his loving sister-in-law Rita Szurley, traveled for decades to Polish polka festivals and events throughout the Northeast United States. “Hank” loved dancing, the polka especially of course, enjoyed his gardening and made the  most delectable pickles from his own garden cucumbers every year to share with his family and closest friends. “Hank” passed countless summers entertaining his many relations, excelled at horseshoes, grilling and making some of the best “world-reknowned” clams casino.

He was predeceased by five(5) siblings: Joseph Poplaski, Bruce Poleske, Stanley Poplaski, Helen Hermes and Sophie Mitchell. He is survived by his wife for 65 years, Irene Szurley Poplaski, sister-in-law Rita Szurley, and a sister, Esther King. “Hank” will be cherished and fondly remembered through future generations by his 15 nieces and nephews, 23 grand nephews and nieces, and at least five (5) great grand nieces and nephews.

The Poplaski relatives and wife Irene would like extend their gratitude and warmest appreciation to the nursing and medical staff of the New Britain Fire Department, EMS Services, Hospital for Central Connecticut, Hartford Hospital ICU Unit, Step Down Unit and 9 North. Their dedication, professionalism and caring for Henry(Hank) was genuine and will not be forgotten.

Family and friends are invited to view Henry “Hank” Poplaski and pay respects Friday, July 23, 2021, at the Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home, 411 South Main Street, New Britain, CT from  8:30 am to 9:30 am. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday at 10:00 am at Holy Cross Church, Farmington Avenue, New Britain.  Burial, with military honors, will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery.