Edward M. Okonowicz, Jr., 76, of Elkton, MD passed away on Monday, March 11, 2024. Born in Wilmington, DE on October 30, 1947, he was the son of the late Edward Sr., and Theresa Radulska Okonowicz.

A graduate of St. Hedwig's School, Salesianum, and the University of Delaware, he served as an officer in the U.S. Army and the U.S. Army Reserve. Mr. Okonowicz worked briefly as a teacher, real estate agent, IRS revenue officer, musician, and editor. After retiring from The University of Delaware, he had a long career as a regional author, columnist, and storyteller. A Delaware native for more than 50 years, his family operated Adolph's Café, a saloon and restaurant in the Hedgeville/Browntown area of Wilmington.

Survivors include his loving wife of 32 years, Kathleen Burgoon Okonowicz; children, Theresa DeRose (Jamie), Edward,III (Karen), and Mark (Jodi); stepchildren, Cassandra Ostrishko (TJ), and Suzanne Marino; grandchildren, Matt, Emma, Audrey, Jack, Adam, Nora, U.S. Army Master Sgt. Arthur Marino, Jr. (Erica), Jacob, Allie, and Logan; great-grandchildren, Artie, Evelyn, Myra, and Sydnee; sisters, Constance Okonowicz, and Monica Witkowski; nephews, Robert and Eric Witkowski, and Michael Drulis; niece, Autumn Schneider; and many other loved ones including his furry friends, Tess, Rufus, Mojo, and Ginger.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandson, Tyler Marino; and sister, Diane Drulis.

Prayer service with Military Honors will be held 11 AM, Thursday, March 14, 2024 at Hicks Home for Funerals, 103 W. Stockton Street, Elkton, MD 21921, with visitation beginning at 10AM. Interment will be 11AM, Thursday, April 18, 2024 in Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear, DE.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Mission 22 at 694 N. Larch Street #910, Sisters, OR 97759.