Edward M. Wandishin

Edward “Eddie” Wandishin of New Holland

Ed Wandishin, 83, of New Holland, passed away on November 25, 2012 at Garden Spot Village where he had been a resident for 12 years.

Ed was born at home on August 3, 1929 in Hazelton, PA to the late Anna and Nicholas Wandishin.

Ed was a master of many trades and did everything from a boilermaker to the military to running numbers as a young boy. Ed saw action when he spent time in the army during the Korean War. Ed was a long standing member of the Fraternal Order of the Police and the Knights of Columbus.

Ed was most proud of the many years he spent as a State Policeman with the Avondale Barracks. During his time with the State Police Ed was involved with investigating the Johnson Gang and was mentioned in the book investigating the group’s exploits. Ed was forced to retire from the State Police in 1981 after being struck down with a brain abscess that left him as if he had a bad stroke. Although Ed’s speech and right side were affected, he never lost his sense of humor and his patience and determination were amazing.

Ed lived in Kennett Square from the early 1970 until the late 1990’s and spent a great deal of time renovating and remodeling the families 120+ year home and was proud of the results. Ed was well known by those in Kennett after his illness when he spent a great deal of time walking 4 or more miles a day, stopping to see his friends in local businesses as he went.

Ed raised his sons to judge others by their merits not what they had or the color of their skin and to stand up for what they believed in and to be who they were, as long as they treat others with care and respect.

Ed is survived by his loving and supportive wife and best friend of 53 years, Pat Wandishin. Pat and Ed’s relationship and the strong bond they shared was an example to many of how love can conquer anything that life throws at you. Ed was also survived by a devoted son and close friend Steven and his partner Joe of West Chester, a son Ted and his fiancée Jane of Portland, Maine; three grandchildren Megan, Rachael and Nicholas of Casco Maine. Ed also is survived by one brother Emil and his wife Doris of Trenton NJ as well as many nieces and nephews. Ed was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Thomas.

Ed and his family would like to thank the staff of the Wintergarden Neighborhood of Garden Spot Village for the excellent and loving care that he received during the seven years he spent there; he was treated as a member of the family by both staff and residents, never as a patient. Words can never express the gratitude that Ed and his family feel.

Ed loved people and people were drawn to his hearty laugh, quick smile and his sense of humor. Those who knew Ed will surely miss him but should take solace in the fact that he is free and whole again.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, December 1, 2012 at 11:00 at the Chapel at Garden Spot Village.

Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that contributions to be made to Benevolence Fund of Garden Spot Village, 433 South Kinzer Avenue, New Holland PA 17557. The Groff-High Funeral Home, New Holland is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be posted on our website, www.groffeckenroth.com.