Final Salute

Edward J. McCormick (US Navy Retired HMC), a devoted serviceman, cherished family man, and lifelong beacon of faith, humor and kindness, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on June 12, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy that will be honored for generations.

Edward was born on March 25, 1932 to the late Earl S and Loretta G McCormick Sr in Bridgeport, CT. He graduated from Bassick High School in 1951, marking the beginning of an extraordinary life devoted to service. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy, embarking on a distinguished 22-year military career that saw him stationed across the globe. He served with unwavering courage alongside the 1st Marine Division during the Korean War (1953-1954) where he was awarded the Purple Heart. He played a vital role in Operation Deep Freeze 2 in 1956 ensuring the safety of those stationed in extreme conditions. During his service, he passed on critical knowledge, mentoring countless servicemen. His military service ended with his retirement in September,1973. After leaving the Navy, Ed continued his dedication to public service with the United States Postal Service, bringing his trademark humor and steadfast work ethic to all who knew him. His passion extended to various organizations, including the Knights of Columbus, VFW, Fleet Reserve, American Legion, Korean War Veterans Association and the Purple Heart Organization.

Beyond his professional life, Edward embraced life with enthusiasm, particularly in golf, where he was an active member of the Stratford Mens League, The Orchards (2006 Champion), and Orange Hills. He even achieved a hole-in-one on the 8th hole at Orchards on August 13, 2013. He found great joy in Notre Dame football, cheering on the Fighting Irish, and was an avid supporter of UConn women’s basketball. He was also a die-hard Mets and New York Giants fan, never missing a chance to support his favorite teams. Edward was an unwavering presence at every stage of his grandchildrens lives, faithfully attending all of their activitiesfrom games and recitals to concerts and graduationscheering them on with pride, encouragement, and boundless love. Edward was a true jokester, always finding ways to bring joy and laughter to those around him. His faith was unwavering, he led by example, demonstrating the values of love, devotion, and integrity. Family was at the heart of everything he did, offering guidance, support, and warmth to those he cherished most. Edwards presence was a gift, and his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love and gratitude.

Edward was predeceased by his loving wife, Marye Anderson McCormick. He was also predeceased by his siblings Earl S McCormick, Jr and Mary Lou Vitelli. He is survived by his loving children Mary and Cliff Canaday, Margaret and Rob Preto-Rodas, Edward T and Beth McCormick. Most importantly, he was lovingly known as ‘Pa’ to his grandchildren Jason, Lindsay and Kevin Canaday
Jonathon and Lauren Preto-Rodas, Meghan and Lou Antoine, Danny McCormick and his partner Molly Rappaport and Caitlin McCormick and her fianc Ethan Echols and ‘G-Pa’; to his great-grandchildren Sage Preto-Rodas, Selena and Loubear Antoine and Bethany Echols. These are titles that carried deep love, affection and joy.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, June 19th at 10 a.m. at St. James Church, 2070 Main Street, Stratford. Interment will be private. Family and friends may call on Wednesday, June18th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Doyle Funeral Home 291 Bridgeport Ave, Milford, CT. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be to the American Cancer Society.

Services

Visitation
Wednesday
June 18, 2025
4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Gregory F. Doyle Funeral Home
291 Bridgeport Ave
Milford, CT 06460

Mass of Christian Burial
Thursday
June 19, 2025
10:00 AM
St James Church
2110 Main Street
Stratford, Conneticut 06615
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