Edward Haines Gossling III

2025, surrounded by his beloved wife of 57 years, Sandra, and their sons, Eddie and Eric.

Ed was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend. Born on January 15, 1946, in

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he graduated from North Penn High School in Lansdale in

1965. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education from Oklahoma City

University and a Master of Arts in Public Administration from Central Michigan University.

Ed honorably served in the United States Air Force for over 30 years, dedicating his life to the

defense of his country. A command pilot, “Goose” logged over 4,200 flight hours in multiple

aircraft including the B-52G, C-12A, T/CT-39, KC-10, U-21, and T-38, he exemplified

excellence in military aviation and leadership.

From instructor pilot at Vance AFB in Oklahoma, to Squadron Commander of the 62nd Bomb

Squadron at Barksdale AFB in Louisiana, to Assistant Chief of Staff, J-1, for United States

Forces Korea, Ed held numerous key assignments and commands around the globe.

Upon his retirement on April 28, 2000, Ed left behind a legacy of service, dedication, and

leadership—recognized through numerous awards and decorations, including the Defense

Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit with Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Republic of Korea

Order of National Security Merit (Samil Medal).

Behind the strength and discipline of his military life, Ed was a caretaker with a gentle soul and

an endless love for family and friends. He had a warm smile, a sharp sense of humor, and a

wonderfully curious mind. A conversation with Ed could take you from ancient civilizations to

how to fix something in your garage. It was that sense of wonder that led him and Sandy to travel

the world together, hand and hand, exploring the places he had once only read about.

Ed is survived by his wife, best friend, and soulmate, Sandra Gossling; his children and forever

little buddies, Edward and Eric; his beautiful daughters-in-law, Megan and Colleen; his loving

sisters, Marilyn and Barbara; and his treasured grandchildren, Oliver and Mia. He is also

remembered fondly by numerous nieces and nephews. Ed was preceded in death by his parents,

Edward and Marie Gossling.

Arrangements have been made for Ed to be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery with Full

Honors. In lieu of flowers, the family requests making a donation to the Wounded Warrior

Project or Folds of Honor.