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Elaine Szczepanik
Elaine Szczepanik of Southampton died on May 14 at the East End Hospice Kanas Center for Hospice Care on Quiogue. She was 94.
She was born on June 9, 1928, in Brooklyn. The daughter of second generation Italian immigrants, she married her high school sweetheart Henry, known as “Hank.” They moved out to the country, as the Hamptons were known then, in the early ’50s, where she lived and worked for the rest of her life, setting up a local business, South Fork Appliance Repair. Due to her unwavering dedication, it is still thriving today.
She was an active and respected member of her community, serving as president of the North Sea Community House for a number of years. People will remember her dressed in her handcrafted costumes disguised as the Easter Bunny or Mrs. Claus. She was a foster mother and a surrogate mother to many who crossed her path, affectionately calling her “Mrs. S.” Her love spread near and far, her family said, her home was always open, meals provided.
She was passionate about her family, friends and life in general. She particularly enjoyed sewing, cooking and feeding the many dogs and birds she adopted through the years.
She is survived by her two children, Stephen Szczepanik and Loreen Szczepanik Davis; her son-in-law, Dwight Davis; and grandson Avery Davis.
Her wishes were to donate her body for scientific research with cremation to follow. A memorial will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations to East End Hospice (eeh.org) or the North Sea Community House (northseacommunity.com) would be appreciated by the family.
Staff Writer on May 22, 2023