Obituary of Edward Wysocki

Edward Wysocki, age 87 of Youngstown, passed away peacefully on Saturday April 18, 2009 at his home surrounded by his loving family, after a long illness. Ed was born at home on August 8, 1921 in Niagara Falls, NY, the son of the late Joseph and Rozalija (Rose Konieczka) Wysocki. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy January 1, 1940 and went to Newport, RI for basic training. He was assigned to the U.S.S. Constitution and served on the U.S.S. Denebola, Destroyer Tender as a 3rd Class Baker. Ed also served on the Normandie, which caught fire and turned over in New York City Harbor. He was then transferred to the U.S.S. John Penn, an Attack Transport. While serving on the Penn it was attacked by Japanese planes and sunk at Guadalcanal on August 13, 1943. He was then assigned to the U.S.S. White Plains, CVE66 which took part in many island invasions including the Battle of Leyte Gulf. Ed received the following Ribbons and Medals: Good Conduct Medal, American Theatre Ribbon, Victory Ribbon, Asiatic Ribbon, and Asiatic Pacific Ribbon (6 stars), Philippine Liberation Ribbon (1 star), Unit Citation (1 star), American Defense Ribbon, European African Middle Eastern Ribbon (1 star). He was honorably discharged in January 1946 as a Chief Petty Officer. On May 3, 1952 Edward married Catherine R. (Sweeney) Wysocki of Hamilton, Ontario and they have resided in Youngstown the past 61 years. He was a Chemical Operator employed by E.I. DuPont Co., in Niagara Falls, NY for 34 years retiring from the Sodium Department in 1983. During retirement he enjoyed attending the U.S.S. White Plains naval reunions. He loved tending his many gardens and working on his woodworking projects and baking. Ed was a communicant of St. Bernard's RC Church in Youngstown. He is survived by his wife, Catherine; his children, Daniel (Mona) Wysocki of Binghamton, NY, Bill Wysocki of Lewiston, Dianne Wysocki of Youngstown, David F. (Megan) Wysocki of Niagara Falls, Edward Wysocki of Ransomville, Rosanna Wysocki of Youngstown, and Katherine Wysocki of Warsaw. He enjoyed spending time with his seven grandchildren, Peter, Carrie Anne, Samuel, Nathan, David, and Paul Wysocki, and Allison Hamilton. Also survived by a great grandson, Joseph Wysocki and a brother, Fred Wysocki of Florida. He was predeceased by a sister, Laura Myers and two brothers, Daniel and William Wysocki. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. Bernard's RC Church, Second and Hinman Sts., Youngstown, on Saturday, May 16, at 11:00am with the Rev. Msgr Thomas Moran officiating. There will be no prior visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Dr., Lockport, NY 14094. Arrangements have been entrusted to HARDISON FUNERAL HOME, N. Fourth & Ridge Streets, Lewiston.