Jason Weiss, a production manager with Aramark who mentored co-workers and helped them provide meals to University of Hartford students for nearly 20 years, died on Sept. 27.
Weiss made a positive impact on the lives of friends, students, and colleagues—who numbered in the hundreds. He was known for always willing to lend a helping hand, for his perpetual smile and sharp wit, and for his can-do/will-do work ethic.
Born and raised in Connecticut, it has been said that Weiss considered the University of Hartford a home as much as his actual residences. He was distinguished for how he braved the elements to get to campus regardless of the severity of the weather. His dedication to his job was unparalleled. Colleagues say that he never wanted to put extra burden or extra stress on co-workers by not showing up.
“Jay’s dedication to this team is one that will not soon, if ever be replicated, says Michael Pieksza, Aramark district manager. “Blizzards, hurricanes, you name it—Jay was always part of the team that was on the ground to take care of our students, employees, and guests."
Weiss also made an effort to carve out personal time to engage in some favored off-campus activities with beloved friends and family, including hiking, mini-golf, video games, and cards.
"We are all undoubtedly better people for our time with Jay,” Pieksza adds. “I will always remember him as that smiling, gracious, witty, happy guy who would always be there for any of us with keys hanging and jingling off his belt loop.”