Ed is survived by his loving wife, Connie Ryan; three children Carol Ryan Ertz (David), Michael (Lynn) and Neil (Kim) and son-in-law John O’Kelly; grandchildren Bryan and Connor Ertz, Ryan, Kristin and Brett O’Kelly, Jennifer and Sean Ryan, Caileigh and Leah Ryan, Korey and Erin Ryan.
Ed was predeceased by his son Kevin and daughter Diane (O’Kelly) who he will now join in a better place.
Ed was born in Newton MA and graduated from Boston College in 1949 where he played basketball and baseball for the Eagles. After serving our country for two years in the Army, Ed joined Goodyear for a career in sales, which eventually led him to Portland where he subsequently declined the opportunity for future moves as Ed knew he and Connie found the perfect neighborhood and home to raise their family and live the remaining 56 years of his life. He was an active member of the North Deering and St Joseph’s Parish communities, volunteering his time as Little League coach, Deering High School basketball booster, religious education teacher and lector.
Upon his eventual retirement from Nelson & Small, Ed and Connie cherished spending time with friends and family, travelling around the US and abroad, but treasured most his ability to be a part of his grandchildren’s school, sport and social activities. Ed also continued his spirit of volunteerism through his lifelong involvement with the Knights of Columbus.
Family and friends are invited to attend a time of visitation on Wednesday, February 17, 2021 from 4-7 PM at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St. Portland. A Private Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, February 20, 2021 at 11:00 AM at St. Pius X Church, 492 Ocean Ave., Portland. A Public Committal service will follow the Mass at 12:00 PM at Evergreen Cemetery, Stevens Ave, Portland. You may view the Mass and Committal service at https://www.facebook.com/jonesrichbarnes or www.ladyofhopemaine.org.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that you follow Ed’s example and lend a helping hand to those in need, do a good deed for a friend or neighbor or simply enjoy the company of your friends and family. Should you choose to lend a helping hand, included is a link to the local St. Vincent DePaul Society, a charity dear to Ed’s heart. https://svdpme.org/donate%2Fvolunteer