Edward Frank Rogalski, age 89, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

Born on February 15, 1937, in Newark, NJ, Edward spent his childhood and early years as a resident of Cliffwood Beach, NJ before moving to Edison, NJ in 1988. After graduating from Sayreville High School, Edward proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army. He served as a cryptanalyst overseas during the Korean conflict. After being honorably discharged for his services to his country, Edward had a lifelong career as an accountant for various companies in NJ and later worked as an armed security guard for the Environmental Protection Agency in Edison. At the age of 35, he joined the Army Reserves and served for 25 years until his retirement with the 78th Lightning Division as a career counselor. Such dedication required Edward to be away from his family one weekend a month and two weeks a year to continuously train. Following his father’s legacy as a Master Mason, Edward was also a Mason and a former member of the Caesarea Masonic Lodge No.64 in Keyport, NJ.

Edward obtained a bachelor’s degree from Thomas Edison State University and an associate’s degree from Middlesex County College. Edward was a voracious reader – always having a book or magazine open during meals or when he was a passenger in the car. Edward enjoyed frequent trips to the casinos, often hoping for a comeback, and appreciated good food - usually the first to order or get up at the buffet and the last to finish while he savored every morsel. Edward loved being outdoors to fish, hunt, and bird watch. He always looked forward to soaking up the sun at the beach or on his deck that he built. Edward was an avid antique collector and furniture restorer. He could tell you the origin and history of an item without hesitation. Edward was a man of few words, but when he had a story to tell, it was quite descriptive, and you probably couldn’t get him to stop talking. He told many jokes – some a bit naughty or corny, he knew tons of random facts, could find a connection with people’s lives, and just all around was a smart, witty man.

Edward was quite humble. He didn’t desire extravagance in life, just the modest pleasures of a fresh cup of percolated coffee he made, chopping wood for his fireplace, or spending valuable time with family and friends, especially breakfast with his childhood friends, the “Cliffwood Beach Boys”. He lived and loved simply. Edward didn’t ask for much, but he gave a lot and was intentionally thoughtful in unexpected, beautiful ways. He wasn’t a perfect man, but he was a respectable man, trying to do good in this world.

Edward is predeceased by his parents, Henry and Mary (Kureczko) Rogalski; his sister Maryann Floyd; and his son Samuel Rogalski.

Surviving Edward is his beloved wife, Marie Elaine (Semenza) Rogalski, of 51 years; his children, Donna Marie Rogalski, Irene Shuster, Maxine Radomski, Ann Frances; his three grandchildren, three great grandchildren, brother David Rogalski and numerous extended family and friends. Affectionately referred to as “Smooch”, he is deeply missed by those who loved him dearly.

Edward’s wife, Marie, and daughter, Donna, wish to thank the countless caregivers, nurses, therapists, and doctors who treated Edward with dignity, compassion and hope over the past ten months. Donna also extends sincere gratitude to her close friends and cousins who supported her and her mom throughout her father’s journey. We choose to celebrate his long, healthy life and the beautiful, humorous memories that will carry us through our mourning.

Edward will be laid to eternal rest in Brigadier General William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery, located in Wrightstown, NJ, with full military honors. Family and friends are invited to attend the burial ceremony on Friday, June 26, 2026 at 10:15 AM. Please arrive to the cemetery by 10 AM and meet at the cemetery's visitor center, 350 Province Line Road, Wrightstown, NJ 08562. A celebratory luncheon will follow after the burial.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Flynn and Son / Mitruska Funeral Home, 23 Ford Ave., Fords, NJ 08863.

Flowers cannot be accepted at the cemetery. Those wishing to honor Edward’s memory may do so through a charitable donation, an act of kindness, or by keeping him in their prayers.