Edward "Ed" Robert Carpenter

Ed, as most people called him, had a full and wonderful life. He was a skilled watchmaker by trade, following in his father Matt’s footsteps. He could repair bank vault clocks and the chiming of the church bells which he did on numerous occasions – even during the war.

He was drafted into the armed forces February 5, 1941 and launched an exciting and important military career. He was very proud of his service to his country and regaled people with his many war stories, such as holding on to the mule that was running headlong to the river, because his commanding officer had said “don’t let go.”

Ed began his military career with the 44th infantry division of the army, obtaining certification in radio transmission. His commanding officer described him as “having the unusual ability as an instructor” in radio operations. He transferred to the air force, the 71st division in October 1945, where he learned to fly. Having been in the heat of World War II, he was honorably discharged in October of 1948.

Ed married Faye Carpenter in 1968 and they were married for 35 years before her death in 2006. During their marriage, he not only continued to teach tennis, his great love, do watch repair, but he also participated in all of Johnston High School’s many activities with Faye who taught there. They were members of the Hyde Park Church of Christ, where Ed served as a deacon until moving to Heartland Health Care.

Ed is preceded in death by his first wife, Polly Tulloch in 1967 and their daughter, Nancy Carpenter Camden Gulley in 1988.

Ed is survived by his step daughter, Marsha Orent, his grandchildren Jena Safai, Reza Safai, Cathy Staerker, Laura Camden, Ahsha Safai, and William Orent. He has 7 great grandchildren, and 10 nieces and nephews.

Ed’s humor, humility, and honor will be missed by all of those who love him.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 31st from 6-8pm at Cook Walden Funeral Home, 6100 N. Lamar. Funeral services will be on Sunday, February 1st, 2pm also at Cook Walden Funeral Home on Lamar with burial to follow at Cook Walden Capital Parks Cemetery.