Edward J. Czerkas

Edward J. Czerkas, 87, of Wakefield, died peacefully on Thursday, January 1, 2015, at South County Hospital. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Army from August, 1945 to November, 1946. He then attended Johnson College of Technology and Pennsylvania State University, graduating in 1953 with a degree in engineering. Most of his working career was spent at Pratt & Whitney, now a division of United Technologies Corporation. He retired from there in 1991. Edward was the husband of the late Gloria G. Czerkas. Born in Taylor, PA, he was a son of the late Bruno and Julia (Gnall) Czerkas. Mr. Czerkas spent his early years in Pennsylvania, then moved to Connecticut and Florida before moving to Rhode Island in 1996. A devoted husband and step-father who, in his earlier years, enjoyed hunting, fishing and round dancing. He is survived by two step-sons: Louis F. Chrostowski, Jr. and his spouse Douglas P. Shapiro of South Kingstown, and Steven J. Chrostowski and his partner Linda Gerry of Jamaica Plain, MA; and a brother, Joseph Czerkas and his wife Mary Ann of Old Forge, PA. He was predeceased by his two brothers, Leonard and Walter. Funeral services will be private. In honor of his life, his family kindly requests memorial donations be made to: South County Hospital, Development Office, 100 Kenyon Avenue, Wakefield, RI 02879.