John J. Aukstolis

Providence, RI - John J. Aukstolis, Jr., 68, of Providence, RI, formerly of Jersey City, NJ, and Wethersfield, CT, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at home. Born in Hartford, CT, on July 21, 1955, he was a loving son of the late John J. Aukstolis, Sr. and Carmela (Todaro) Aukstolis.

John grew up in Wethersfield, CT, and was a graduate of Wethersfield High School. He went on to further his education, earning his Associate's of Occupational Studies from Johnson & Wales University. He was most proud of becoming a member of the faculty at his alma mater, Johnson & Wales, in 1995, where he mentored and was revered by countless students.

Before joining the team at Johnson & Wales, John served as a Sous Chef at Windows on the World Restaurant, located on the 106th and 107th floors of the North Tower of the former 1 World Trade Center in New York City. While there, he was responsible for overall restaurant service as well as Chef Garde Manger and the 106th Floor ballroom. His extensive Garde Manger experience began at area golf resorts in CT and with the Canteen Corporation, where he was responsible for feeding over a thousand meals a day.

John was an avid Providence Bruins hockey fan and a New England Patriots fan. He was the dear brother of Joseph J. Aukstolis, Sr.; the uncle of Joseph J. Aukstolis, Jr., Jamie S. Aukstolis, and Jeremy T. Aukstolis; and the great-uncle of Christopher Aukstolis, Nicholas Aukstolis, and Kayleigh Aukstolis, all of Wethersfield, CT. He also leaves behind many cousins.

Funeral arrangements are pending at this time.

John J. Aukstolis, Jr. will be deeply missed by his family, friends, students, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His legacy of dedication, mentorship, and culinary excellence will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

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