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Gene Dziak

October 24, 2009

Gene "Zeke" Dziak, 77, of Falls, died October 24, 2009 at home. He was married to the former Shirley Henry. They celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary on February 20.

Born in Falls Township, he was a son of the late Michael and Pauline Franko Dziak. He was educated in Falls-Overfield schools and was a member of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, Tunkhannock. From a young man serving in the United States Army and a veteran of the Korean War, he focused his professional life on public service to his community, state and country. First elected in 1961 as Falls Township Supervisor, he was currently serving his 42nd year in this position which led to his receiving a recognition award from Harrisburg as "Supervisor of the Month" for his many years of service. In addition, he was chairman of the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors and Assistant Treasurer of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors, of which he was inducted into the "Supervisor Hall of Fame." Prior to retirement in 2004, he was employed by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture for 25 years as Northeastern PA Dog Law Supervisor, where he protected the rights of animals in 10 area counties. He was awarded the "Dog Law Supervisor of the Year" and was proud to have his name listed in the Department of Agriculture Building in Harrisburg. Prior to his position in dog law, he was employed by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. served as both chairman and vice-chairman of the Wyoming County Republican Committee and was a mentor, friend and confidant to many government and community leaders. In 2006, he received the "Annis L. Tyler Service-Above-Self" award in recognition of his contributions to the citizens of Wyoming County. In addition, he was proud of his association with the Lake Winola Fire Company as a lifetime member.

He was preceded in death by sisters, Josephine Henry and Veronica Gumaer.

Also surviving are a son, Gene and wife, Gail, Falls; a brother Michael Jr., Falls; and sister Mercedes Butrymowicz, Duryea; a grandson, Gene and wife, Becky; and great-grandchildren, MaKayla, Billy, and Eddie, Falls; grandson, Michael and companion, Danielle, Falls; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mass of Christian Burial was held Oct. 28 in the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, Tunkhannock Interment Fairview Cemetery, Lake Winola.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Lake Winola Fire Company, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church or the Lake Winola United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be made to aplitwinfuneralhomes.com.