Edward Otto Gizynski

Edward Otto Gizynski, 102, of Silvis, IL, died Thursday, April 28, 2016, at Illini Restorative Care, Silvis, IL.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, May 2, 2016, at First United Presbyterian Church, 801 16th Street, Moline.  Visitation will begin at 9:30 at the church prior to the service.  Burial will be at the National Cemetery at the Rock Island Arsenal, where military honors will be conducted by the East Moline American Legion Post 227.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church or to The Wounded Warrior Project.

Edward was born on September 6, 1913, in Chicago, IL, the son of Otto and Martha Witt Gizynski.  He graduated from Augustana College with a B.A. in accounting.  In January of 1946, he married Martha Ellen Hansford, who preceded him in death on September 18, 2010.  Edward worked for International Harvester for 40 years, retiring in January of 1976.  For over 50 years, he was a member of the First United Presbyterian Church in Moline.

Edward was a veteran, having proudly served in the United States Army Air Force for 4 years during WWII.  He later became a member of the East Moline American Legion Post 227 and had the privilege of attending a Quad City Honor Flight in 2010.

Ed and Martha traveled extensively in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. Their trips to Papua New Guinea to visit their daughter Ellen and grandson Dan were among the most memorable of their world travels. Ed and Martha also camped in almost every state in the U.S.

Ed was a member of the Two Rivers YMCA in Moline for over 60 years, where he enjoyed exercising and camaraderie even after his 101st birthday.  He enjoyed all sports, and loved to read, play bridge, work in the garden, and square dance.

Survivors include his daughters, Ellen (Rob’t) Greene, Moline, and Sharon (Jim) Caldwell, Houston, TX; grandson, Daniel C. Gordon, Orlando, FL.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents; wife; and two brothers, Elmer H. and Raymond J. Gizynski.

He will be remembered for his love for the Lord and his family, his energy and enthusiasm for life, his forthright manner, and his wry sense of humor.

The family wishes to express their gratitude for the wonderful care given to Ed and Martha at Crosstown Square and Illini Restorative Care in Silvis over the past 10 years.

Memories may be shared online by visiting esterdahl.com.