Edward V. Zilnicki

Lifelong Riverhead resident Edward V. Zilnicki died April 24 at the age of 78.

He was born May 12, 1933, in Riverhead to Vincent and Michalina Zilnicki, and was educated through high school. He married Constance Sadowski in Southampton on Jan. 25, 1953.

A lifelong farmer, Mr. Zilnicki owned Ed Zilnicki & Sons farm in Riverhead, begun by his grandfather over 100 years ago. On over 350 acres he grew primarily potatoes, and also grew wheat for the Hasidic community in New York. Mr. Zilnicki opened the farm to the local public in the fall for pumpkin-picking and fun in the corn maze.

Mr. Zilnicki was a member of St. Isidore R.C. Church in Riverhead. He loved farming and driving his tractor and was an avid fan of the Giants, the Mets and the Knicks. He adored his wife’s Polish cooking and loved to spend time with his many grandchildren.

Predeceased by his son Edward Jr. and his grandson Jeffrey, he is survived by his wife of 59 years; his children, Richard (Sue-Ann), Kenny (Annie), Bonnie (Pete), Jimmy (Janice), Nancy (John) and Peggy (Ed); 20 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Visiting hours will take place Thursday, April 26, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at McLaughlin Heppner Funeral Home in Riverhead. A service will be held Friday, April 27, at 10 a.m. at St. Isidore R.C. Church, followed by interment at the church cemetery.

Donations may be made to St. Isidore R.C. Church.

This is a paid notice.