Edward Isaac Hess

Edward Isaac Hess made his final transition on the morning of November 24, 2024, at the age of 82. While our hearts ache with his loss, we find comfort in knowing he is no longer in pain and is at peace.

Born on February 2, 1942, in Reading, Pennsylvania, Ed lived a life filled with curiosity, creativity, and an enduring love for the people and passions that shaped his world. After serving his country in the U.S. Air Force, Ed gained professional experience working in the Research Laboratory at the University of Texas, where his intelligence and craftsmanship shone.

In Austin, Texas, in 1987, Ed met the love of his life, Dorothy. Their connection was immediate and unwavering, leading to a marriage that would span over 35 beautiful years. In their later years, Ed and Dorothy enjoyed traveling before settling in Florence, Texas, where they spent the last decade of his life cherishing every moment together.

Ed found great joy in his hobbies, which included building model trucks, woodworking, and watching NASCAR. His workshop was a place of wonder and creativity, where he transformed problems into projects and simple materials into extraordinary creations. Whether fixing a broken chair, repairing a strand of Christmas lights, or building a model plane, Ed’s hands were never idle, and his work was always a labor of love.

More than his talents, Ed was a man defined by his heart. He loved the Lord deeply and devoted himself to daily prayer, service, and faith. His love for his wife Dorothy was unmatched—a partnership built on devotion, laughter, and unshakable support.

Ed leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Dorothy Hess; his children, Tonda (Pete) Nelson, Angela (Joe) Sapien, Wilson (Johanna) Bradley, Raphale Hagele, and Armin Hagele; and his grandchildren: Joe Sapien III, Gabriella (Todd) Westbrook, Melina Genter, Shelby (Niles) Smith, Rebecca Janes, Lukas Genter, Ryan Yelvington, Austin Yelvington, David Jahn, Hannah Bradley, and Hazel Bradley. He is also lovingly remembered by his great-grandchildren: Wyatt Sapien, Noah Yelvington, Madilyn Westbrook, Easton Sapien, Leela Westbrook, and Hunter Smith. Ed is preceded by his parents, sister Gloria Hess and son Max Hess.

Ed’s laughter, love, and limitless creativity will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in every train whistle, every plane soaring through the sky, and every handmade treasure that brings joy to the world. He taught us to build not just things but connections, memories, and happiness.

A Celebration of Ed’s life will be held on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home, 1615 S. Fort Hood, Killeen, Texas, 76542. The family kindly requests donations be made to the NASCAR Foundation in honor of Ed’s love for the sport.

Rest in peace, Ed. Your life was a masterpiece, and your memory will forever be a source of inspiration.