On November 16, 2010, Senior Corrections Officer John H. Paskewicz Sr. of the Maine Correctional Center gave his life in service to others. Today, as we mark the anniversary of his End of Watch, the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation pauses to honor his extraordinary career, his devotion to duty, and the legacy he left behind through family, service, and sacrifice.

A Sudden Loss During Training

Senior Officer Paskewicz was participating in a training exercise on defending against edged-weapon attacks—the type of scenario designed to keep officers safe in some of the most dangerous situations they may encounter on duty.
After successfully completing a scenario, he was speaking with fellow officers, including his own son, when he suddenly collapsed from a fatal heart attack.

His colleagues immediately administered CPR and worked tirelessly until paramedics arrived, but despite their efforts, he could not be revived.

His passing was felt deeply throughout the Maine Department of Corrections, where he was respected as a seasoned officer, a mentor, and a friend.

Twenty Years of Dedicated Service

Senior Officer Paskewicz served with the Maine Department of Corrections for 20 years, spending his career protecting staff, inmates, and the public with professionalism, courage, and a steadfast sense of responsibility.

He was known for his leadership, calm presence, and willingness to guide new officers—an influence that continues to be remembered across generations of Maine DOC staff.

A Veteran, a Father, and a Hero

Before beginning his corrections career, Officer Paskewicz served his country as a veteran of both the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. His life was defined by service—first to his nation, and later to his state and community.

He is survived by:

• Three children, including a son who served beside him in corrections

• Four grandchildren

• A fiancée

• Several brothers and a sister

To his family, he was not only a dedicated public servant but a loving father, grandfather, partner, and sibling whose memory remains cherished every day.

A Legacy That Endures

Officer Paskewicz’s story reminds us of the physical demands placed on correctional staff—even during training designed solely to keep them safe. His commitment to continual preparedness and professional excellence reflects the highest standards of the corrections profession.

As we honor his End of Watch, we reaffirm that his sacrifice will never be forgotten. The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation stands with his family, colleagues, and the Maine DOC community today and always.

Keeping His Memory Alive

We invite our CPOF members, supporters, and the broader corrections community to join us in remembering Senior Corrections Officer John H. Paskewicz Sr.

To help us continue honoring fallen officers and supporting their families through our mission of “Taking Care of Our Own,” consider becoming a CPOF member today.