NORWICH – Edward J. Holmquist, Sr., 68, of Norwich and formerly of East Pharsalia, passed away unexpectedly Saturday morning, July 30, 2011, at his home.
The son of Martin “Pop-Pop” and Margaret Gallo, Ed was born in Jersey City, N.J., in May of 1943. As a young man, Ed gained employment with the Pepsi-Cola Company in a journeyman type capacity. It was during this time that he met his wife, Edith, whom he married in the Commonwealth of Virginia on May 1, 1972. Their marriage spanned 37 wonderful years and would bring them four children: Ed, Jr., Margaret, Tracy and Tammy. In 1974, Ed and family moved to East Pharsalia, and he gained employment with the Norwich Shoe Company. His last occupation was with the Bowman Lake State Park where he performed the duties of a Park Ranger. It was there that he earned the nickname “Ranger Ed” and discovered his true passion in life – protecting and preserving parklands. Above all, Ed enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren: Justin, Ashley, Emily and Destinie Holmquist, Mariah and Cameron Ivan, Tyler and Brandon Schloop, and Juliana Buffa.
Ed is survived by his children and their families: Edward Holmquist Jr. and wife Shelly of Norwich, Margaret Holmquist of Sauquoit, Tracy Holmquist of Norwich and Tammy Ivan and husband Laszlo, also of Norwich. Also surviving are his sister and brothers: Joan Dowling and Bob Gallo of Norwich, John Gallo and Charles Holmquist of N.J. Besides his wife Edith, Ed was predeceased by his sister, Carol Devine.
Interment services for Ed Sr. are private and will be located in the East Pharsalia Cemetery.
Please consider memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org or 800-227-2345. The family has asked that any stories or remembrances of their dad’s life be sent to his son, Ed Holmquist Jr., 136 Galena Manor, Norwich, NY 13815.
Arrangements are with the R.J. Fahy Funeral Home.