Obituary of Edward A. Melville

Edward A. Melville of Walden, NY entered into rest on Sunday, March 18, 2018 surrounded by many of his loved ones. He was 84 years young. The son of the late Edward Francis and Apolonia Pearl (Kaczor) Melville, Edward was born on August 31, 1933 in Attica, NY. Upon an intriguing, chance meeting at a wedding, followed by an unexpected blind date, he fell in love with Lilli Clement. They were married on February 15, 1958 and recently celebrated their 60th anniversary. They settled on Berea Road in Walden and there raised four children. A loving, devoted father who always put his family first, he later welcomed eight grandchildren, and presently, three great-grandchildren, becoming a wonderful “Opa” to them all. He richly loved each, gladly attending many events, sports games, concerts, recitals, parades and other school functions. An avid bird lover, he shared his extensive knowledge to others. Also, a sports fan, he could discuss games, careers, or any other sports related trivia at length. A man of great integrity, he knew how to love others and was a role model for any man to follow. He often referred to himself as “Lucky Eddy”, but, we were the lucky ones to have had the privilege of living with him. The impression he has left on his entire family will live on forever! Edward was a retired electrician employed at Central Hudson for 35 years. He was a Korean War Veteran who just had the tremendous opportunity to participate in the Honor Flight #15. He was a member of the American Legion in Montgomery, the Mended Hearts, and the Marlboro Senior Citizens Club. Survivors include his wife, Lilli; daughters, Barbara (Bruce) Arwe, Dolores (Shawn) O’Brien, Lisa (James) McIver; son, Edward (Kristin) Melville; grandchildren, Kristine (Jay), Veronica, Kathryn (Yovany), Shawn, Aubrey, Eddie (Regina), Emily and Adeline; great-grandchildren, Aaliyah, Yovany and Savannah; a loving sister, Maryann, as well as many nieces and nephews. Edward was predeceased by brothers, John and Patrick, and sisters, Colleen, Joan and Bernice. A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 22nd from 2-4PM and 7-9PM at the Gridley-Horan Funeral Home, 39 Orchard St. Walden, NY 12586. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11:30AM on Friday, March 23rd at the Church of the Most Precious Blood, 42 Walnut St., Walden. Burial will follow at Wallkill Valley Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Edward’s name to Hudson Valley Honor Flight or Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.