John Clifford Smolenski Sr 80, of Cranston, passed away on April 30, 2024 at Kent Hospital. John was born on November 14, 1943 in New London, Connecticut. He was the son of the late Zigmond and Agnes (Garvey) Smolenski

John “Smo” was the devoted, loving husband to Sandra Miller.  He was preceded in death by his son, John Smolenski Jr. and is survived by his four daughters Heather (James) Christie, Gwen (Joe Kells) Smokenski, Rachel Smolenski and Diane (Sarah) Pompae, three stepchildren Paul (Rose) Berger, Scott (Sherrie) Berger and Christine (Michael) Flint, as well as fifteen grandchildren. he was the brother-in-law of Susan (Kirk) Morang.

John graduated from New London High School in 1961. He attended the University of New Haven from 1974-1975. He graduated from Thames Valley Community College in June 1994 with an associate's degree in general engineering. He was a Shipfitter at Electric Boat for 3 years, returning 10 years later as a Shipfitter Supervisor until 1984. He was the Manager at Jolly King Restaurant and was the Concession Manager for the New York Yankees from 1993-1998. In addition, he was Master Cook at Foxwoods Resort Casino from 1998 until his retiring in 2012.  John was also a member of the Holy Apostles Catholic Church.

John always enjoyed going out and finding something to do. He liked to go to different restaurants and places to try something new. He enjoyed dining out.  He loved going to Iggy’s restaurant for seafood and oysters. John looked forward to his daily walks at the Warwick Mall or around the “lake” at Meshanticut Park with Sandra. During their walks they would meet and talk to different people that would become friends of theirs. When at home, he enjoyed doing puzzles, watching sports and Jeopardy.  John was an amazing cook.  John was a true New Englander-loved the Red Sox and the Patriots.  He also enjoyed watching the UCONN woman's basketball team!

Family was important to John. He was a proud, supportive and present grandfather to his grandchildren. He attended countless volleyball, baseball, basketball and football games, and went to track meets and cheerleading competitions.  John attended his grandchildren's school plays, chorus and band performances, and was present for most of their school milestones.     

A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday May 8, 2024 at 11:00am in The Butterfield Chapel 500 Pontiac Avenue Cranston. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service beginning at 10:00am.   Burial will follow in Pocasset Cemetery Cranston.