Although he was from Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, Peter Surdo touched many lives in Milford. His tragic death in an automobile crash on Coastal Highway a few weeks ago left an impact on those he met while operating the Davidson’s Exotic Mushroom stand at the Riverwalk Farmer’s Market.
“Peter will live on through his family, writings, art and mushroom cuisine,” his obituary read.
When his death was announced last week, many of those he touched at the Riverwalk Farmer’s Market expressed shock and disbelief that the man who helped them with their mushroom purchases had passed away.
“Although we live in Florida now, every week, I would visit the mushroom stand,” Donna Dickinson said. “Mr. Surdo was such a lovely man and my heart and prayers go out to his family.”
Darlene Brown commented that she also purchased mushrooms from Surdo several times and called him “generous” as he had given her a free bag of oyster mushrooms to try once. Astrid VanWees who was once a vendor with Surdo remembered him as a very pleasant guy. Astin Benedetto stated he was “the nicest person.” Shannan Scott remembered sharing recipes with Surdo. Jody Vasey of Watergirl Farm found it hard to believe such a nice person was gone.
“I’m so sorry to hear this,” Carol Sollazzo said. “I’ve bought mushrooms from him several times at the Riverwalk Farmer’s Market. My sincerest sympathies and prayers to his family and friends.”
According to his obituary, Surdo is survived by his wife, Linda, who called him “the love of her life,” as well as his children, Elizabeth, Gina and Peter. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Aria and William. A sister, Betty, also survives him. He was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers.
Davidson’s Exotic Mushrooms plans to return to the Riverwalk Farmer’s Market once they are able to staff the stand, although they say there is no “replacement” for Surdo who worked at many farmer’s markets in the area.
“Peter was a kind man who always greeted you with a smile and friendly conversation. He loved the Bel Air Farmer’s Market and was often the first person there to set up on Saturday mornings,” a post from the Bel Air market in Bel Air, Maryland, read. “Peter was knowledgeable about all things mushrooms and made the dried mushroom powders and soup mixes for Davidson who are currently creating a commemorative Umami Wild Mushroom mix in his honor. We extend our condolences to his family and friends.”
Davidson’s Exotic Mushrooms is a small, family-run business that mainly operates out of farmer’s markets in Philadelphia and the surrounding area. Their mushroom powders have no additives and as close as customers can get to eating an entire mushroom.
Services for Surdo will be private, but a celebration of life is planned for the future. A tribute wall is available on Surdo’s obituary page at the Longwood Funeral Home of Matthew Genereux, Inc. which allows friends and family to leave a message or plant a tree in Surdo’s honor.
