Edward Joseph "Ed" Grudzien

Edward "Ed" Joseph Grudzien, 70, of Salisbury passed away peacefully Friday, April 26, 2024 at his home with his family by his side. Born in Seattle, Washington, he was the son of Major John Grudzien and the late Audrey Grudzien.
He was a student athlete and graduate of Overlea High School participating in lacrosse and wrestling winning multiple awards and medals. He continued his career in lacrosse at Essex Community College transferring to Salisbury University in which he was a member of the first Varsity Men's Lacrosse team at Salisbury University in 1974. Both of his sons continued his legacy as student athletes in high school and college of which he was very proud. He loved sports and believed in teamwork, good sportsmanship and learning how to lose.
He began his career in food sales operating the first hotdog cart on the Salisbury Plaza, later to open "Rick and Ed's" Café where he made many friends and met his wife.
As a successful entrepreneur he moved on to establish "Ed's Provisions" which was later sold to Lankford Sysco where he worked for 27 years. He loved working for Sysco. He was passionate and dedicated to providing the best service to all of his customers.
Ed was a warrior in his battle with prostate cancer for over 6 years. He fought hard no matter the treatment, pain, sickness or discomfort never complaining and always with a positive attitude. He would somehow find the humor in every situation, easing those around him. He kept hope alive and demonstrated strength beyond words to "beat this thing". He was one of a kind, a rare bird, cool cat, free spirit who wore Hawaiian shirts and wild shoes, taking life with ease and little stress. He had a way of making others feel better after being with him, leaving them with a laugh and a smile. He was an amazing husband and father. He adored his family and created a home filled with love and laughter. He enjoyed traveling and vacationing with his family and friends. He loved beaches and chasing the sun and more recently enjoyed cruising in Europe. He was a golfer and an avid gardener. He built a box garden next to his pride and joy "banana trees" which surrounded his secret paradise "Club Ed" with a secluded pool and pond where many years of fun memories were made with family and friends.
He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Celeste Grudzien, two sons, Blake Grudzien and Nathaniel Grudzien, brother, Steve Grudzien (Debra), sister, Kathleen Grudzien, mother-in-law, Valerie Schreiber (Mario), brother-in-law, Tim Sheridan (Brenda), nephews, Keith, Dane (Katie), and Stephen (Jessica), and nieces, Emily, Carlin (Griffin), Rachel (Luke), and Bethany (Paulmichael).
A couple of options to donate in Ed's memory include: "Club Ed" student athlete scholarship award (more details to follow). St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or your favorite charity. He was passionate about finding a cure for children's cancer.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 18, 2024 starting at 1pm until at Wicomico Yacht Club 3345 Yacht Club Rd. Eden Md. 21822. Tommy Bahama theme island casual. Bring lawn chairs to enjoy live music and a fun story to share.
Arrangements are in the care of Holloway Funeral Home, P.A., 501 Snow Hill Road, Salisbury MD 21804. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared for the family at www.hollowayfh.com