Jeffry W. Czerniawski

Longtime Riverhead resident Jeffry W. Czerniawski died Nov. 12 at the Hamptons Center for Rehabilitation in Southampton. He was 91.

Born in Cutchogue Dec. 21, 1919, to George and Josephine Czerniawski, he graduated from Riverhead High School in 1939 and served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1945. Wounded in Germany, he was discharged with a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star.

An all-around athlete, Mr. Czerniawski played tennis and baseball in high school, semi-pro baseball — as well as on a team in the service — and, later, bowling and golf.

He married Eleanor Goozda in Wading River on Oct. 9, 1942. After his military service, he joined his father-in-law in the building trade and also worked as a self-employed carpenter, building the first two bungalows in Reeves Park. He was a member of St. Isidore R.C. Church in Riverhead and a life member of the Riverhead Polish Independent Club, VFW and Disabled American Veterans.

Mr. Czerniawski is survived by his wife of 69 years; his sister, Anne Mallardi of Commack; and his brother Stan, of Connecticut. He was predeceased by his brother John.

Visiting hours were held Nov. 14 at McLaughlin Heppner Funeral Home in Riverhead. A funeral service at St. Isidore Church on Nov. 15 was followed by burial at the church cemetery.

Memorial donations may be sent to the Long Island Alzheimer’s Association.