Ed grew up on a farm in Avon with his parents, Edward (deceased) and Bernice (deceased). He was known as a bit of a trouble maker, and made his older sisters, Karen and Robin, work hard at their big sister duties. From living on the farm, he had a deep level of compassion for animals and a green thumb that made beautiful gardens grow. He would later be known especially for his flourishing peppers and tomatoes.
Ed was a Sergeant in the United States Army, serving from August 17, 1971 to August 17, 1974 in the Armored Recon division. He spent most of his enlistment in Germany, which he remembers as a beautiful country he would’ve liked to visit again.
“The best thing I did was help raise you kids…” For all the things Ed was known for he was most proud of being a father to Jessica, the nurse (deceased); Justin, who followed in his steps and enlisted with the Army; Chelsea, who he tearfully pinned as a Hartford Police Officer; and Bailey, the boldly free spirited. Edward was always proud to talk your ear off about his two granddaughters, Evelyn and Jessayla.
To each of his children and grandchildren, he passed on his stubbornness, or as he liked to call it – determination. They carry with them his compassion, love of life, need for adventure and the importance of family. He showed them to stand their ground for what they believe in and to defend those who cannot defend themselves.
On May 18, 2018 surrounded by family, friends, and staff of Central Connecticut Hospital, after nearly 26 years Ed finally married the love of his life, Damaris. Ed invited everyone he saw to the wedding and then broadcasted the news for the rest of the day with a wide smile and bright eyes.
Ed leaves behind a large extended family who flowed continuously in and out of his hospital room supporting him in his battle.
Services will be held on Thursday, June 7 at 11 a.m. at Dyer Cemetery in Canton, CT. Please visit www.callahanfuneral.com to leave online condolences.
