Edward Norbert Gongola

Edward Norbert Gongola, age 86, passed way peacefully Sunday, May 14, 2023, surrounded by his loving family in Hudson, Florida. He was born on 7/14/1936 in Chicago, Illinois to Florence and Edward Gongola. He joined the US Army in 1958 and served our country proudly. He married the love of his life, Sharon Ann Waters on February 1, 1961. Together they had 4 children, 3 girls, 1 boy. His career was diverse. He started as a police officer in Algonquin, Illinois. Afterwards, he worked at Bob’s foreign cars, before becoming an independent truck driver where he spent many years traveling over the road, and best known as the “ Bandit”. After many cold winters, he persuaded his wife and children to give up snow shovels for beach shovels, and relocated to sunny Florida. He began a career in Florida, at Pasco County Utilities, moving up to management over the years and later retiring after 15 years. Post retirement, he became an active member of “ Our Lady Queen of Peace “ church in New Port Richey, Florida, where he found his passion for serving God. Through his passion, he became Grand Knight with the Knights of Columbus. Due to his love for cooking, he and his wife Sharon founded “St. Lorenzo’s breakfast”, with Father Sebastian’s blessing. In addition, he was a chef at the monthly dinners. This, led he and Sharon, to form precious lifelong friendships and relationships. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon of 62 years. His 4 children: Kathy Gongola, Lori Springer (spouse, Robert Britt Startsman), Diane Leonard (spouse, Casey Leonard), Michael Gongola (spouse, Carol Gongola). His brother, Leonard Gongola, sisters, Marilyn Golz and Janice Gongola. His grandchildren: Matthew Pescinski, Kristina Pescinski, Jessica Leonard, Emilee Hinson, Samantha Gongola, Meghan Leonard, Jamie Gongola. His great grandchildren: Dakota, Maggie, Eliana, Avery, Ophelia, and Christopher.