Edward Nowicki

Edward William Nowicki, 84, a resident of Holland, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at Pickering Manor in Newtown, Pennsylvania. His devoted wife of 60 years, Nancy (née Wojnarowicz), was by his side throughout his long illness.

Born on April 13, 1940, Ed grew up in the Frankford section of Philadelphia as the youngest child of William and Stefania (Szarejko) Nowicki. He was predeceased by his two brothers, Joe and Walt, and his sister, Eleanor. He attended Frankford High School in Philadelphia and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1957, where he trained at Ordnance School at Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland. He was fortunate to be stationed at Schofield Barracks in O’ahu, Hawaii, for three years with the 25th Infantry Division, working on the MGR-1 Honest John rocket program, and was there to witness Hawaii become America’s 50th State. While completing three additional years with the Army Reserve back home, he began working as an apprentice machinist at Plumb Tool Company in Bridesburg before joining France Products in Newtown, Pennsylvania. Over his 38-year career there, he progressed from machinist to upper management, helped establish a new plant in Oakland Park, Florida, and relocated his family to Pompano Beach for two years before returning to the Newtown office and settling in Holland, Pennsylvania in 1972. Despite multiple corporate transitions, he remained with the company throughout, becoming a respected expert in his field. His work allowed him to make international connections, travel the world, and even experience the thrill of flying on the Concorde several times to London and Paris—a feat he was always proud to share.

Despite his demanding career, Ed always made time for his family and friends. He loved taking his family on camping trips, beginning with tents and later progressing to annual camper excursions across the country. These trips were filled with fishing, hiking, and exploring historical sites. He had a lifelong passion for military history and aviation, often visiting museums, touring battlefields, and watching countless documentaries. An avid fisherman, he spent his childhood years biking to the Frankford Creek with a rod in hand and later enjoyed fishing and fly-fishing in both fresh and saltwater all over the United States and Canada.

Ed also maintained his interest in ordnance as a hobby, becoming an avid hunter, shooter, and gun collector. He was an active member of the Langhorne Rod & Gun Club for over 35 years, having just renewed his membership again this year. He went on several hunting excursions across the Western U.S. and Canada, proudly displaying his trophies in his den.

A skilled craftsman, Ed could fix or build almost anything. He enjoyed woodworking, particularly after his retirement, and generously created furniture, home bars, and, most famously, his intricately designed cutting boards for family and friends. He also volunteered his time and skills as a leader in his son’s Boy Scout troop for many years and was one of the founding leaders of Troop 147 in Holland.

Ed took great pride in his service with the U.S. Army and the 25th Infantry, often wearing his “Tropic Lightning” cap, flying the American flag daily, and embracing every opportunity to celebrate Veterans Day with free drinks and meals for veterans at area restaurants.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy; his son, Scott (Vanessa) Nowicki of Harleysville, Pennsylvania; and his daughter, Kristen Nowicki of Oakland Park, Florida.

Ed will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, his adventurous spirit, and his ability to bring warmth and humor to those around him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, craftsmanship, and cherished memories.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather together and celebrate Ed’s life on Monday, April 7, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM in St. Bede the Venerable Church, 1071 Holland Road, Holland, PA 18966, followed by his 12 PM Funeral Mass. Interment and Military Honors will be conducted precisely at 2 PM in Washington Crossing National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, and in memory of Ed, your donation to a charity of your choice would be truly appreciated by his family.

Arrangements by Slabinski Sucharski Funeral Home, 215.744.2700.