January 28, 2026 — The commercial fishing community of is mourning the loss of Ernie Panacek, a transformative leader who spent more than three decades championing the local seafood industry as the general manager of Viking Village. Panacek, 75, passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026, following a battle with ALS.
A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Chapel at the Harvey Cedars Bible Conference.
A Life Dedicated to the Sea
Panacek was widely recognized as a “pillar” of Viking Village, one of the East Coast’s largest commercial seafood suppliers. Under his management, the dock became a hub for innovation and sustainability, particularly in the scallop and longline fisheries. His expertise was not just operational; he was a fierce advocate for fishermen, serving as a founder of the New Jersey Seafood Harvesters’ Association and a director of the Bluewater Fishermen’s Association.