Mr. Edward J. Berecka, 86 of Utica passed away Saturday June 5, 2010. Edward was born in Utica on April 1, 1924 the son of John and Mary (Antanavige) Berecka and received his education in Utica schools. He honorably served in the US Army during WW II. On July 10, 1948, Edward married Jane T. Wojtanowski in Holy Trinity Church in Utica. For over 35 years, he was employed with Niagara Mohawk Power Company retiring in 1985. He was a member of the Niagara Mohawk 25 Year Club, Disabled American Veterans Stars and Stripes #82, and was a lifelong parishioner of St. George's Roman Catholic Church in Utica, until it's recent closure. Edward enjoyed watching softball and tending to his vegetable garden especially when he could give away the vegetables it produced. Mr. Berecka is survived by his beloved wife, Jane; one son, Edward J. Berecka, Jr., of Utica; one sister, Helen Lusky of FL; one brother and sister-in-law, Albert and Kristina Berecka of Stittville and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two sisters and three brothers-in-law, Julia and John Lusky, Anna and Adam Dirda and Charles Lusky and a sister-in-law, Stella Berecka. Mr. Berecka's funeral will be held on Tuesday June 8, 2010 at 9:15 a.m. from the Heintz Funeral Home 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica and 10:00 at Our Lady of The Rosary Church in New Hartford where his mass of Christian burial will be celebrated. His burial will follow in St. George's Cemetery in Whitesboro. Calling hours for family and friends are Monday from 5:00-8:00 p.m. Please omit floral offerings.