Edward J. Hart

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Edward "Eddie" J. Hart who left this world peacefully in Zephyrhills, Florida on November 6, 2025, due to complications from health issues. Eddie was born on March 11, 1947, in Poughkeepsie, New York, to Edward Hart and Imogene Mullen Hart. He lived a life rich with family, love, and laughter, leaving behind a legacy that will endure in the hearts of those who knew him.

Eddie graduated from Poughkeepsie High School in 1965 and went on to join the Air Force on July 29, 1965. He served as a Fire Protection Specialist (fireman) with the 432 Civil Engineering Squad on the flight line at the Udorn Royal Thai Air Base in Udorn, Thailand. He was honorably discharged on December 22, 1968. Following his military service, he obtained his tractor-trailer license and pursued a career in trucking. He started his career at A.C. Dutton Lumber Company in Poughkeepsie, New York and, thereafter, worked for Red Star Express, Rock Tavern, New York for over 30 years before retiring in 2002.

On December 29, 1990, Eddie married his second wife, Sandra Petro, and together they built a lovingly chaotic home filled with teenagers, young adults, grandchildren, joy, and adventure. They were happily married for 35 years during which time they traveled extensively, celebrated the marriages of five children, and joyfully witnessed the arrival of seven grandchildren. A family man in every sense of the word, Eddie was a devoted husband and father. A generous, kind, thoughtful man with room in his heart for everyone. He had a twinkle in his eyes and a sense of humor that kept everyone on their toes with hilarious antics and surprise "gotcha" zingers. That index finger was always looking for it's next target.

Eddie's love of slot machines and a good horse race was well-known. It meant many exciting afternoons at OTB and trips to Atlantic City with his good friends, John Harrington and Bobby Phillips. A true Atlantic City aficionado, Eddie continued to enjoy those trips well after he retired and moved to Florida.

As an avid motorcyclist and Harley Davidson fan, Eddie cherished the freedom of the open road and greatly missed riding his Harley as he faced health challenges. In a heartfelt tribute, his eldest son will honor his memory with a final ride, ensuring that Eddie will forever feel the wind in his hair and the sun at his back.

Eddie is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Petro Hart; five children, Wes "Jamie" Welnicki, Renee Mays (Paul Lowe), Krista Hart, Johna Hart (Walt Gladstone), and Edward J. Hart Jr. (Renita K. Hart); seven grandchildren, Katrina Welnicki (fiancé, Matt Kletzel), Jeremy Mays, Kyle Arroyo, Tyler Fritz (fiancé, Gabri Koppie), Brendin Austin, Xairya Austin, and Samantha Hart; brother, John Hart (Debbie Hardy Hart); nephews, John Hart (Danielle Williams Hart) and Michael Hart. He leaves behind a close-knit family who will carry on his spirit and memories.

Eddie is preceded in death by his beloved sister, Janet "Ginny" Hart Hacunda, and his nephew, Steven Hart.

Eddie Hart was a remarkable man whose legacy will live on through the love he shared and the lives he touched. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Gulfside Hospice, 2061 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639, Attn: Carla Armstrong, in recognition of the compassionate care provided to Eddie during his illness. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, PAs, nurses, and CNAs at Gulfside Hospice and Rucki Hospice Care Center.

Those interested in attending a Celebration of Life service should contact Sandra Hart by private message for details.