Edward John Chizmar

Edward John Chizmar; 90, of Green Twp in Salem, Ohio, passed away Tuesday morning, May 25, 2021 at Mercy Health in Youngstown.

He was born on July 6, 1930 in Youngstown to his parents; the late Martin and Katharine (Siranka) Chizmar.

Edward attended Chaney High School in Youngstown and joined the United States Navy at 18 years of age. He served his country with honor for four years beginning in 1948. Part of his time served was during the Korean War. During his time in the Navy he traveled around the globe the equivalent of 2 ½ times. Edward’s most significant assignment was when he served on the USS Cony (DDE-508). He was awarded the National Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, and 1 star. He was honorably discharged in 1952. Edward was fond of taking to the dance floor! He most enjoyed Polka dancing. It was at a dance in 1953 at Avon Oak’s in Girard, that he met his bride-to-be; Patricia Ann (O’Block) Chizmar. They courted for 5 years and wed on July 5, 1958 at the St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Salem and celebrated nearly 63 years together. Edward worked at US Steel in Youngstown as a Boiler Maker for 28 years until their closing. So, at the age of 50 he decided that it was as good a time as any to retire and spend the next 40 years living his wonderful life. He was what many referred to as an “Energizer Bunny” and sitting still was not his style! Edward was a member of the Silver Sneakers at the Ursuline Mother House and Alliance Senior Center. He served as a member of the Salem American Legion Post #56 and was a former member of the Greenford Ruritans. Edward raised, trained, and showed Arabian Horses. It was this strong connection to this amazing animal that spurred him on to be an active participant in the horse community. He was a member of the Penn-Ohio and the Inter-County Horseman’s Associations, as well as, volunteering for the Youngstown Charity Horse Show. Edward served on several golf leagues over the years and was triumphant in getting his first hole-in-one on his wife’s birthday. As far as sports were concerned, Edward was a devoted follower of all teams Cleveland and The Ohio State University. The only teams he followed more closely were the ones that his grandchildren and great-grandchildren played on and for them, you could find no bigger fan. Edward was a seaman at heart! He loved the water. He went on many cruises, 3 of which were through the Panama Canal, including one celebrating he and Patricia’s 50th wedding anniversary. Edward said that the time spent on the cruise ships was reminiscent of his day’s in the Navy. Winters were spent at their home on Nettles Island, Jenson Beach, Florida where he was a member of the men’s club. Every Wednesday at 9 a.m, he faithfully served a group of motorcycle riders, making sure they got off safely on their ride. He couldn’t wait to enjoy the stories, coffee, and donuts afterwards. At home, Edward could often be found puttering in his barn or in the garden. Some of his favorites plants were peppers, tomatoes, and garlic. He was well known for making large braids of garlic, which he loved giving to his friends and family. Edward was a perfectionist in all that he did and never had an idle moment. He was know as “Mr. Fix-it” and if something wasn’t needing fixed, well then, he would go in search of something that did! If by chance you received a complement from him you should consider yourself blessed and they were words to be treasured in your heart. Edwards love was unconditional. He had an ornery sense of humor, kind heart, and would help anyone in need.

In addition to his wife, Edward is survived by his daughters; Michele “Shelly” (Robert) Zwingler of Negley, Ohio, Lori Simmons (W. Doug Bookwalter) of Salem, 2 grandchildren; Natalie (Steve) Holden, Chad (Alyson) Zwingler, 4 great-grandchildren; Maren and Pryor Holden, Payton and Parker Zwingler, 2 sisters; Pauline Marlos of Mogadore, Ohio and Elaine Kana of Youngstown.

Along with his parents, Edward is preceded in death by a grandson; Ryan Edward Zwingler, siblings; Catherine Kolb, Martin, Frank, and Rudolph Chizmar and 2 infant sisters.

There are no services planned at this time. Care was given by the Arbaugh-Pearce-Greenisen & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services of Salem, Ohio.

Donations can be made to the Mahoning County Veterans Service office, to be used for veterans in need or Green Twp. Fire Department.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.