SAYBROOK TOWNSHIP — Walter N. Edwards, age 89, of Saybrook Township, Ohio, died Friday, March 12, 2010, at home, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born Dec. 22, 1920, in Ashtabula, Ohio, the son of Arthur N. and Frances (Taylor) Edwards and was a 1938 graduate of Ashtabula High School. He married Dorothy (Corlew) on June 23, 1940 and they would have celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in June.
Mr. Edwards worked as a welder at the Ashtabula Shipyards prior to entering the U.S. Army. He served overseas with the 107th Calvary Recon Squad, received 3 Battle Stars and was discharged as a Sergeant.
He was manager of Singer Sewing Machine Co. in Ashtabula and then went into the auto business in 1951 at Leahy Motors. He spent 45 years in the car business, working at area car dealerships including Goldsmith Motors, Sinkler Ford and Massucci’s.
He was a member of the Junior Chamber of Jaycees and Director and First Treasurer of Ashtabula Cancer Society. He was instrumental in bringing the first Soap Box Derby, the American Red Cross and the Cancer Society to Ashtabula.
Mr. Edwards belonged to the Elks BPOE, Veteran of Foreign Wars, Moose Lodge and the North End Club. He served as president and director of Ashtabula County Bowling Association.
He loved all sports, was an avid bowler, golfer, enjoyed playing cards and was a big Browns and Cavaliers fan. Mr. Edwards’ favorite time was spent with his three daughters and their families.
He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Dorothy; daughters, Karen (Paul) Erickson, Deborah (Robert) Clark and Gayle Shumate (Ray Sintic); grandchildren, Michele Erickson and Christopher (Karen) Erickson; great-grandson, Zachariah Erickson; and step-grandchildren, Robin and Stacey Clark.
Mr. Edwards was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Frances; sister, Elvera Saak; and a grandson, Matthew Erickson.
The Funeral will be Tuesday, March 16th, at CHILDS & WILLIAMS FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 1440 W. Prospect Road, Ashtabula, Ohio, with Calling Hours from 5 to 7 p.m., and a brief Memorial Service at 7 p.m. Burial of ashes will be at Saybrook Center Road Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve, 1166 Lake Ave., Ashtabula, Ohio 44004. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Obituary and condolences at starbeacon.com.
