Edward S. Holinka, Jr. lovingly known as Bumpa, passed away January 28, 2025, at the age of
76. A lifelong resident of Farmington, Connecticut, he was born August 21, 1948, to Edward S.
and Martha (Legowski) Holinka, Sr.
Ed was sorely missed by his loving wife Sandy, of 56 years. Their bond was unbreakable, and in
the end, they passed a mere one week of each other – a testament to their deep love and
devotion.
Ed is missed and remembered by his children: Diane (Mark) Sidoti of Farmington, Connecticut,
Jennifer (Rick) Bettencourt of Danvers, Massachusetts, Rebecca (Jon) Hanny of Colchester,
Connecticut and Edward (Cassandra) Holinka, III of Thomaston, Connecticut, his cherished
grandchildren: Sean Sidoti, Amber Sidoti, Josh (Samantha) Sidoti, Tory (Lauren) Sidoti, Kailey
Bettencourt, Emmett Holinka and Summer Holinka; as well as great grandchildren: Rylee Sidoti,
Colton Anderson and Savannah Sidoti. The oldest of 10 siblings, Edward was predeceased by
his brother Timothy Holinka. He is survived by Linda (Dick) Clark, Sharon (Randy) Patton, Bruce
(Dana) Holinka, (Pat) Holinka, Timothy’s widow, Kathy Holinka, Martha Ann Helton, Dale
(Pauline) Holinka, Lisa (Ron) Morgan and Christopher (Heather) Holinka, along with many
loving nieces and nephews.
Ed was a true master of his craft, honing the skills he learned at any early age working side by
side with his father. He dedicated his career to the fence industry, where his talent was
unsurpassed. He could do it all. His eye for detail and strong work ethic leaving a lasting mark
on those who worked with him. He continued to take considerable pride in all endeavors
including the meticulous care of his lawn and riding tractor. Countless hours were spent
checking the weather to make sure conditions were exactly right.
Beyond his profession, Ed had a wide range of interests that reflected his boundless
imagination and creativity. He will be remembered for his love of building classic model cars,
painting, and gardening, finding joy in bringing intricate details to life. Archery was another
pursuit he enjoyed, requiring the same precision and patience that defined his work. A lover of
nature, he took immense pleasure in feeding the squirrels, some even by hand, like Mustache,
Bob, and little Sarah. Ed would spend hours outside listening to am radio and ball games. He
enjoyed long phone conversations with his brothers and sons-in-law that often included colorful
talk of politics.
Ed was an avid fan of science fiction. He found endless fascination in the worlds of Godzilla,
Star Trek, and X-Files. Those who knew him well will remember his crazy t-shirt collection which
highlighted his sense of humor. His bedroom with walls and shelves packed with model cars,
aliens, Jaws memorabilia and “all things Ed” was a site to see.
A straight shooter with strong convictions, Ed balanced his firm beliefs with an easygoing
attitude that made him both respected and approachable. He will be affectionately remembered
and forever missed.
Honoring their parents' wishes, the family will hold a private celebration of life later for Sandy
and Ed jointly.
The family welcomes memorial donations to The Arthritis Foundation.