Kings Park mourns Scott Hnis, 56, retired state parole officer, town rallies in support

The Kings Park community is reeling after the sudden loss of a retired state parole officer and beloved member of the community.

Scott Hnis, a former senior parole officer for New York state and longtime Kings Park resident, died on July 1. He was 56.

In the days since his passing, $72,000 has been raised through a GoFundMe campaign to support his wife, Christine, and their children, Thomas and Emily — an indication of the deep love and respect his neighbors had for him. Nearly 700 contributions have poured into the fundraising effort.

“To know Scott was to know his deep pride in the people he loved and his passion for the town he called home,” reads a message on the fundraiser page. “He was easy to be around and had the best laugh—one that could light up a whole room.”

Whether he was cheering on his kids at lacrosse games, casting off from his boat, or enjoying a laugh with friends, Hnis was known for his loyalty, warmth and sharp wit.

Hnis is survived by his wife Christine; his children, Thomas and Emily; his father Richard and his brothers, Ricky and Craig. He was preceded in death by his mother Patricia.

He also leaves behind Kayla, Hailey, Madison and Brianna; his mother-in-law Janet Schroeder; his aunt Carole Hnis; and many cousins He was the cherished son of Richard and the late Patricia Hnis, and the loving brother of Ricky and Craig, and sister-in-law Kimberly.

He also leaves behind nieces Kayla, Hailey, Madison and Brianna; his mother-in-law Janet Schroeder; his aunt Carole Hnis; and many cousins.

Services for Scott Hnis

Visitation for Hnis was held Monday, July 7, at the Branch Funeral Home of Commack. A Catholic prayer service was held in the afterbnoon and a New York State Parole Officers Honor Guard presentation was be conducted in the evening.

_{Top photo: Scott Hnis with his wife and two children (GoFundMe).}