Carol Olejnik, The 'Tomato Lady,' Dies September 8

Carol Olejnik died at her Sag Harbor home on September 8, 2017, surrounded by family and friends. Fondly known as the “Tomato Lady,” she was 74 and was diagnosed with leukemia in April 2016.

She was born on December 29, 1942, in Southampton, the fifth of five children of Lena (Laspesa) Olejnik and Robert Olejnik. She attended Pierson High School, Ithaca College, and was a recipient of a graduate assistantship for her master’s in education degree at the University of South Carolina.

An accomplished fencer and member of the East End Foil of Sag Harbor, she was the 1964 Ladies Foil Champion in the Western New York Region. Professionally, she taught physical education in western Suffolk County before returning home and teaching physical education in local parochial schools. Her favorite teaching was to the local kids at summer camps at Mashashimuet Park and Cor Maria, according to survivors.

“My Aunt Carol was a great role model, an athlete ahead of her time”, said her niece, Liz McGuire. “She was my inspiration as I went on to earn an athletic scholarship to college as well as national recognition.”

Family was most important to Ms. Olejnik. She dedicated years of her life caring for her mother and many other family members, to ensure that they could spend their final days at home.

She was well known to many as the “Tomato Lady” and had a very popular produce stand for more than 30 years in front of the family homestead, until last summer. She was an excellent local historian, and passionate about preserving the character of Sag Harbor. Her hobbies included growing roses and playing poker with her family and friends.

Ms. Olejnik was predeceased by her parents; and sisters, Helen Ragusa, Jane Larson and Betty McGuire; a brother, Bob Olejnik; and two nephews, Jonathan Novak and Stephen Ragusa. She is survived by 14 nieces and nephews, local friends; and her dog, Kelly.

A funeral service is planned for Thursday, September 14, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Yardley and Pino Funeral Home in Sag Harbor, with a private burial on Friday at Oakland Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested to East End Hospice, your local hospice or Fighting Chance in Sag Harbor.