The Rotary Club of Enfield is honoring Enfield’s veterans by sponsoring military tribute banners that will be displayed in Higgins Park, the Town Green, Freshwater Walkway, North Main Street and Hazardville between Memorial Day and Veterans Day in 2026 and 2027. The Enfield Public Library partnered with Enfield Rotary to preserve digital versions of these banners as well as biographical information about each veteran.
John C. Netkovick
United States navy 1952-1956
korean war
petty officer third class
good conduct medal
John was born to Beatrice (Martin) Netkovick and John Netkovick of Willimansett, MA. He attended local schools in Willimansett and served as an altar boy for ten years at St. Mary's Church. He graduated from Chicopee High School in 1949.
John entered the United States Navy in 1952 and completed basic training in May of that year at Naval Training Center Bainbridge, where he trained as a Radioman. During his naval service, he was assigned to the USS Rockwall (APA-230) and later to the USS Payette County (LST-1079), originally commissioned as USS LST-1079. He rose to the rank of Radioman Third Class and was honorably discharged in February 1956.
After returning home from the Navy, John began working at Hamilton Standard, where he met his future wife, Madeline (Devenero) Netkovick, in 1956. The couple married on July 20, 1957, at St. Patrick's Church and made their home in Enfield, where they continue to live today. Together they raised four children — Michael, Robert, Madelyn, and John — and became proud grandparents to seven grandchildren.
John retired in 1994 from Peerless Tool and Machine Company, after 32 years working as a machinist. Beyond his career, he devoted many years to coaching baseball in Enfield Little League with the Moore Rug team. He is also a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus Council #50, with 76 years of membership.
At the center of John’s life has always been his family — especially his wife of nearly 69 years, his children, and grandchildren — along with his dedication to the Knights of Columbus, his love of sports, and the pride he carries in serving his country.
