Edward Sheehan

He is survived by brothers, Dennis M. Sheehan (Joan), Phillip J. Sheehan (Patty), Thomas K. Sheehan (Jill) and life partner, Ray Swiess. Brother, Terrance P. Sheehan (Carol) predeceased him. Nieces and nephews include, Seamus, Eamon, Padraig, Tim, Margaret, Kevin, Meagan and Ryan.

The firstborn of five boys, as close as five brothers could be, Ed grew up in Irish Chicago, the son of a prominent doctor. Aware from an early age of the needs of others, he was drawn to teaching (third grade…an important time of discovery for children).

His work as swim coach at St. Philip’s High School easily segued into the development of his own business, Aqua Nuts, where he could produce swim shows.

But his real love was Circus, an arena where he could bring joy and laughter to others through the physical artistry of trained and devoted performers. As founder of the Windy City Youth Circus and a Circus Instructor for the prestigious Chicago Latin School, University of Chicago and Triton Junior College Throupers, Ed was able to share and pass on his dreams to others.

Prior to moving to Sarasota, an acclaimed circus capital and an obvious relocation for Ed Sheehan, he owned and operated the Windy City Circus School in Antioch, IL. “Ed’s favorite thing in life was circus, circus, circus,” says longtime companion and friend of 53 years, Ray Swiess. “Circus, and the kids.”

Everything revolved around circus, from Sheehan’s Poster Service to his labor of love as Circus Historian. A well-regarded member of Circus Fans of America, Ed’s talents extended to the Sarasota Fairgrounds. The voice of the Sarasota County Fair, he balanced announcing with security supervision, a guardianship he prized.

As Building Director for Sarasota’s Showfolks Club and Grounds Supervisor for Milwaukee’s Great Circus Parade, he was outspoken. “If he didn’t like something, he made sure everybody knew it,” notes Swiess of Sheehan’s caring nature and predilection to make things right. “If you needed something, you knew who to call.”

A curmudgeon, yet a purveyor of good times, Ed remained always true to himself, forging ahead, breaking new ground. “If there’s any one epitaph that fits Ed best,” says Swiess, “it is this: He was always his own person. Determined. Stubborn. And strongly opinionated. No Trespassing signs were not made for him.”

A memorial service for family and friends will be scheduled at a later date. Donations may be made in Ed Sheehan’s name to Circus Sarasota’s Big Top Education or Sailor Circus programs, 8251 15th St. East, Suite #B, Sarasota, FL 34243.

Arrangements under the direction of National Cremation & Burial Society, Sarasota, FL.