Edward A. Sears

Edward A. Sears, 72, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 10, 2018 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Portland, Maine to the late Frederick and Margaret (Libby) Sears on July 3, 1946.

Ed’s service to his country began with a four year enlistment in the US Navy Submarine Force. He was later commissioned into the CT National Guard Army where he earned the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, retiring after 33 years. Ed was also a manager at McDonald’s, and later employed by CFL and Butler Inc. as a construction supervisor. In addition, he volunteered for multiple town and civic organizations.

He raised his family in Uncasville, CT with his beloved wife of 50 years, Joan (Pilling) Sears. In addition to his wife, he is survived by five children; Christine McCormic of Dededo, Guam, Deborah Juzba and her husband David Jr. of Somers, CT, Patricia Sears and John Coleman Jr. of Waltham, MA, Jennifer Scheier and her husband Benjamin of Champaign, IL, and Ryan Sears of Petersburg, VA. Ed was fondly known as “PopPop” to many grandchildren who adored him dearly. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy, brothers; Harry and Freddy, and step-siblings; Pete, Donny, Donna and Debbie. He was predeceased by his brother, Leslie.

Ed was an avid Red Sox and UCONN Women’s Basketball fan. He enjoyed starting his mornings with his Dunkin’ Donuts “family” for good conversation and a medium coffee with 2 creams. He was a hard working generous man that would do anything to help others. Above all, he was a dedicated family man that was happiest when family and friends would gather and fill his house with the beautiful sounds of joy and laughter.

After retirement, Ed and Joan moved to Somers, CT. He was able to fulfill his life-long dream to travel the United States in his RV with his wife. He enjoyed packing and planning out every detail of these numerous trips months in advance, but most of all he enjoyed sharing this dream by taking his children and grandchildren along the way, making memories that will be cherished forever.

Family and friends are invited to attend visiting hours on Friday, December 14th from 4-7pm with a Celebration of Life Service at 7PM at Forastiere Smith Funeral & Cremation, 220 North Main St., East Longmeadow, MA. Interment with military honors will be held in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia at a later date. For more information or to leave a condolence for the family please visit: www.forastiere.com. In Lieu of flowers, the family is encouraging donations in Ed’s name to the Jimmy Fund.