Edward J. Szurek, 88, of Gloversville, formerly of Amsterdam, passed away May 26, 2019, at Mt. Valley Hospice House surrounded by his family. Born in Amsterdam, July 21,1930, he was the son of the late Joseph and Telica Szurek.
He attended schools in Amsterdam, and then served in the U.S. Army from 1951-53, at the rank of corporal.
On May 2, 1954, he met and married the love of his life, Angelina (Julia) Viola at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Gloversville, who survives him. Besides his wife of 64 years, he is survived by his two sons, Rick (Linda) Szurek of Johnstown, and Mike Szurek Sr. of Gloversville; grandsons, Mike (Erica), Matt, and Zach Szurek; three great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Dominic (Rene) Viola; sister-in-law, Mary Renda; and several nieces and nephews.
To say that Ed was a hard worker would be an under statement. He worked two jobs after his sons were born so that his wife could stay home and attend to them. Working eight hours at various leather mills, coming home, having dinner and turning right back around to put in another four to six hours more at various leather mills. Ed retired in 1994; was of the Catholic faith, attending church every Sunday. He always had a love for the great outdoors, was a master gardener, an avid hunter and fisherman. After retirement he spent winters on Caroga Lake jigging smelt to share with his friends at Vrooman’s on Sunday afternoon. Ed was also known to take a sip of wine now and then to “take the chill off,” as he would say. He also enjoyed country music; and was the most proud man you would have ever met and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. God Bless.
He was pre-deceased by his siblings, Lottie and Clara.
A memorial Mass will be held Friday, May 31, 2019, at Church of the Holy Spirit at 10 a.m. Inurnment will be held 10:30 a.m. on June 3, 2019, in Saratoga National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Valley Hospice, 108 Steele Ave., Gloversville, NY 12078. Online condolences to www.amicofuneralhome.com.
