MIDDLEFIELD – Edward John Hudak passed away peacefully Nov. 23, 2018. He was born Dec. 20, 1933, in Bronx, N.Y., to Tillie (Berish) and Andrew Hudak.
After his mother died when Ed and his sister, Amy (Tarchick), were very young, his father moved the children to Warren, Ohio, to live with their grandmother. After graduating high school, Ed joined the U.S. Air Force and served during the Korean War, between the years of 1951-1955.
On Sept. 15, 1956, he married Audrey Jean Balas (love of his life) and together, through 62 years of marriage, they raised four children, Teresa (Hudak) Lisum, Lori, Kathy and Edward, influenced the lives of eight grandchildren, and touched the hearts of three great-grandchildren. He and Audrey spent the last decade living in Middlefield.
Ed worked for the Plumber & Pipefitter Union Local 396 for 40 years, a fact he took great pride in. Being a very resourceful man, he could fix and make just about anything — including a killer chicken soup!
He loved tinkering and doing woodworking in the garage, making useful items for his kids and wife. Many of these items are still in use today.
An avid Cleveland Indians fan, he also enjoyed talking sports with his son-in-law, Rick Lisum.
The family has happy memories of many camping and road trips together, ice skating in the winter and many joy-filled family gatherings. His grandchildren remember his cooking, his solid presence during many life events, and his always-at-the-ready wit.
A man of few words, “Pap” was loved and respected by many. He did not want to be “obligated” to anyone — and made sure everyone knew it!
His unique sense of humor, great belly laugh, and sparkling mischievousness will be sorely missed. No one could dismiss you with as much love as our Pap could.
We love you, Pap, very much.
Per Edward’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held. A celebration of his life will take place at a later time.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the James Funeral Home, 8 East Broad St., Newton Falls, OH 44444, (330) 872-5440.
Family and friends may view Edward’s obituary online. To send condolences to the family, please visit us at www.jamesfuneralhomeinc.com.
Please send donations to your favorite military organization in his name.