Edward L. Ciemniecki, 59, lawyer

Edward L. Ciemniecki, 59, a partner with the Archer & Greiner law firm's Philadelphia office and an usher at Christ the King Roman Catholic Church, died of stomach cancer Thursday at his home in Haddonfield.

Most recently, Mr. Ciemniecki practiced civil law at Archer & Greiner after the firm acquired Pelino & Lentz of Philadelphia, where he previously worked.

Mr. Ciemniecki was active in his church and with Haddonfield's sports programs, especially as a past president of the Haddonfield Football Booster Club.

He participated in the annual Rhoads Avenue softball game held every Memorial Day.

Mr. Ciemniecki also was a member of the Knights of Columbus.

He graduated from Linden High School in Union County where he was a star running back on the varsity football team and a basketball player. Mr. Ciemniecki had wanted to continue playing football, but enrolled at Princeton University and graduated with a bachelor of science degree in economics in 1976.

In 1979, he graduated from Rutgers University Law School in Camden.

"My dad was a very selfless man, always wanting to make others happy. He was fun-loving, and very intelligent, and made the world a brighter place," said Nolan Ryan, one of three sons, who all played high school football.

Besides Nolan, Mr. Ciemniecki is survived by Sheila (nee Dieser), his wife of 29 years, and his other sons, Kevin Edward and Daniel Dieser Ciemniecki. He also leaves two brothers, Raymond, of Bradenton, Fla., and Stanley, of Sea Girt; and three sisters, Janice Clemens of Forked River; Marilyn Leonard of West Milford; and Lori Gewirtz of Fanwood, N.J.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday,. Interment is private.

Contributions in his memory can be made to Christ the King Roman Catholic Church, 200 Windsor Ave., Haddonfield, N.J. 08033 or to Haddonfield High School Football Boosters Club, 530 Blanchard Ave., Runnemede, N.J. 08078.