George Edward Dwyer, a former Executive with Costco Wholesale, died Sunday, February 10, 2013 in Redmond, Washington after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease. He was 76 years old.
Ed was born on June 21, 1936 in Barron, Wisconsin. His family then moved to Lancaster, California. He graduated from Antelope Valley High School where he played the drums in the school band. Ed went on to serve his country in the Army, being stationed in Germany and France. After military service, Ed received a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Antelope Valley Community College.
Ed married Claudia Lirussi in 1965. They raised two children together: Todd Edward Dwyer and Kimberly Marie Dwyer. Claudia passed away in 1995. He later married Milinda Fortune in 2004.
Ed Dwyer’s career in the grocery industry began in 1960, working 23 years for Vons Grocery Company. Ed went on to become one of Costco Wholesale’s original employees and early leaders. He was instrumental in the development of the warehouse depot system, becoming Vice President of Depot Operations. After 24 years of being an inspiration and mentor to many, Ed retired from Costco Wholesale in 2007.
Ed loved sports and was a season ticket holder to the Seattle Seahawks. He loved boating on Lake Washington and throughout Puget Sound. He especially enjoyed overnight trips with friends on his beloved Sea Ray, “Happy Hours.”
Ed had a passion for travel. He and Milinda were able to enjoy travelling to many adventurous destinations. His favorite trip was to Africa, one of the highlights for him was riding an elephant in Zimbabwe.
Ed is survived by his loving wife Milinda, his son Todd Edward Dwyer of California, his daughter Kimberly Marie Dwyer of Washington, and his beloved sister, Janet Sinegal and her husband, Jim Sinegal of Washington. He leaves behind very special niece, nephews, stepchildren and their families as well as countless good friends.
Ed is preceded in death by his first wife, Claudia and his parents, Clarence and Lorraine Dwyer.
The family would like to thank the caring staff of Overlake Terrace Assisted Living in Redmond for their tireless service and compassionate care.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, February 16, 2013 at 10:00am at Sacred Heart Church 9460 NE 14th Street Bellevue, WA. A reception will immediately follow. Burial will be at Sunset Hills Memorial Park 1575 145th Place SE Bellevue WA 98007.
Please offer your condolences to Ed’s family by signing his online guest book at www.sunsethillsfuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to be made to The Alzheimer’s Association.
The Alzheimer's Association | Western and Central Washington Chapter Attn: Development Department
North Tower, 100 West Harrison Street, N200 Seattle, WA 98119 Ph: 206.529.3869 http://www.alz.org/alzwa
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18