Mr. Stanley J. Tiska

Stanley J. Tiska, 68, of Hinsdale Ma, left this world on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, with loved ones at his side. Born to Edmond J. Tiska and Barbara J. Tiska (Danford) on June 5, 1957, in Pittsfield, MA., his childhood was filled with adventure and a touch of mischief, shared with friends and family. He joined the Boy Scouts and spent much of his time exploring state forests. He developed an independent and wild spirit that stayed with him throughout his life. In 1976, Stan began working as a bartender and doorkeeper at The Dog House in Pittsfield. He later worked in sheet metal fabrication, building armored vehicles, and spent many years in manufacturing and shipping and receiving. Alongside these roles, he worked security for local establishments and events, and as a personal bodyguard. Dedicated to safety and empowerment, Stan sought to provide others with confidence and ability to protect themselves. He volunteered as a crisis counselor for victims of abuse and taught women’s self-defense classes. He worked as an emergency room security guard, for local ski patrol and was a licensed bail enforcement agent (bounty hunter) for five years. Stan pursued his many interests with intensity. As an ultra-runner, he completed two 100-mile races, more than fifteen 50-mile races and others of varying distances. He competed as an endurance and distance cyclist. His favorite events were those set in treacherous terrain, with mountain ridges and sweeping views of the horizon that came with them. He found joy in supporting others through their first marathons, and formed many lifelong friendships. Stan was an avid firearms enthusiast with extensive knowledge and skill, and created a welcoming environment for others to learn. He participated in many other activities, pushing them to the adrenaline pumping extreme whenever possible. As a devoted martial artist, he achieved the rank of 4th Dan in Aikido, 1st Kyu in both Judo and Jujutsu, practiced Taekwondo, Kendo, most recently Doyle Irish Stick fighting. He was skilled in archery, and knife/tomahawk throwing. He shared his knowledge generously and remained a lifelong student. He embraced opportunities to teach and learn along some of the most widely recognized and accomplished martial artists of diverse disciplines throughout the Northeast, and held deep admiration for their skill and guidance, humbly recognizing that his own accomplishments were shaped by those meaningful connections He believed in inclusion over exclusion, welcoming and blending unique practices, seeing their value not only for himself but for the community he cultivated around him. At his home, he cut trees and hewed beams by hand to craft his own dojo, a space that served as his school, his church, and a gathering place for friends and family. Stan was strong spiritually. He took part in annual multi-day ventures with the Men’s Council of ME, sharing in fire making, drum circles, the burning of sage, and connecting to the earth, rooted in mutual support and forming bonds, companionships that held profound meaning in his life. His greatest pride was his family, and he valued their time together, often turning ordinary days into full family gatherings. Stan faced his final challenges without fear and with a warrior’s spirit, the same way he lived his life. He continued to embrace life fully, sharing his time and passions with those he loved. He is survived by his “lovely bride,” his wife of 45 years, Audrey Tiska. Her unwavering support made all of his great endeavors possible; his children, Joshua Tiska, Naomi Tiska (Steve), and Rachel Tiska (Matt); his cherished grandchildren, Aurorah, Azaliah, and Ingrid; his siblings, Rainbow Hornyak (Dave) and Sally Rice (Mark); his brother in law Corey Arndt (Kelvin); his nieces, Lori, Trina, and Sarah Jane; his great-niece, Elizabeth. He was predeceased by and is survived by many family members and friends who were like family—more than can be named. His strength, spirit, and humor will live on in all those who knew and loved him. A celebration of life will be held in Stan’s honor, details to be announced at a later date.

Mr. Stanley J. Tiska

June 5, 1957 - March 31, 2026