Edward A. Riendeau

Edward A. Riendeau, 80, of New Bedford passed away Tuesday, May 5, 2015 in Charlton Hospital after a long illness surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Margaret “Kevy” ( Harney) Riendeau.

Born in New Bedford, a son of the late Edward and Lucy (Ostiguy) Riendeau he was a lifelong resident of the area and a communicant of Our Lady of Fatima Church. Where, in the 1970’s, he served as secretary of the Our Lady of Fatima Couples Club.

As a young boy, he studied magic under the magician Hardeen (Houdini’s brother). Ed performed magic at stage shows at the Olympia theatre before the Saturday & Sunday Children’s matinees and later in life at his grandchildren’s birthday parties.

Mr. Riendeau joined the National Guard in 1954. He served during Hurricane Carol in 1954. He then joined the Army in 1958 and was stationed in Fort Sam in Houston where he worked in the dental lab making dentures, partials and crowns.

Ed started with the Department of Corrections in 1960 as a correctional officer. He worked his way up to Superintendent of MCI, Plymouth. During his last years with corrections he would serve at times as acting assistant deputy commissioner. During the fall, he would teach a weekly course in Aurora, CO for the National Institute of Corrections Academy.

Once he retired, he enjoyed traveling, cooking, fishing, taking pilot lessons, computers, magic and his grandchildren. He was a member of the American Magician’s Society, RI Magicians Society, National Rifle Association, and a lifetime member of the New Bedford Rod & Gun Club.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two children, Elaine M. Silva and her husband David of Berkley and Edward Riendeau, Jr. of Marion; two grandchildren, John M. Silva, III and Jill Silva.

His funeral will be Monday, May 11, 2015 at 9 a.m. from the ROCK FUNERAL HOME, 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford followed by a funeral mass at 10 a.m. in Our Lady of Fatima Church, 4256 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford. Burial in Pine Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday 4-8 p.m. For online tribute and directions www.rock-funeralhome.com