06/18/2026
Today marks one year since we lost John Czerw.
Not a day goes by that someone doesn’t walk through our door and share a story about John. A favorite memory. A laugh they had together. A time he helped them when they needed it most. The impact he had on this community continues to reveal itself every single day.
Over the past year, we have been humbled by the incredible tributes honoring John’s life. The heartfelt messages, stories, photographs, and memories shared by family, friends, customers, and neighbors have reminded us just how many lives he touched. The plaque dedicated in his honor by the Philadelphia firefighters stands as a lasting symbol of the respect and admiration he earned throughout his life. The City of Philadelphia’s decision to rename Tilton Street as “Czerw Way” ensures that his name and legacy will forever remain part of the neighborhood he loved.
To so many people, John was more than the face of Czerw’s. He was a friend, a mentor, a storyteller, and someone who could make you feel like family within minutes of meeting him. His personality filled every room he entered, and his passion for Czerw’s Kielbasa was impossible to miss.
The past year has not been easy. There are still moments when it feels impossible to imagine this place without him. But every batch we make, every customer we serve, and every tradition we continue is a tribute to the foundation he helped build. Keeping this family business moving forward is both an honor and a responsibility that we carry with great pride.
John dedicated his life to Czerw’s, to his family, and to this community. We know he would want us to keep going, keep working, keep laughing, and keep preserving the traditions that meant so much to him.
Thank you to everyone who has shared a story, stopped in to check on us, offered support, or simply kept John in your thoughts over the past year. Your kindness has meant more than words can express.
John, we miss you every day. Your legacy lives on in this business, in this neighborhood, and in the countless lives you touched.
Forever in our hearts. ❤️
