Edward M. Mendez

Edward Mendez, age 80, of Newark, Delaware passed away on Sunday, November 7, 2021 after a short illness.  

Edward was born in Havana, Cuba in 1941. He immigrated to the United States in 1960 at the age of 19 after the Cuban Revolution. Soon after, he proudly served his new country by joining the United States Air Force. In 1961, he was honorably discharged and continued to work hard to support his family members as they too began their new lives in America. 

Edward met the love of his life, Margaret “Peg” in 1963, fell in love, and married her in 1967.  Together, Edward and Margaret had 4 children whom they adored.  He proudly became a U.S. Citizen in 1976, but never lost hope to see a free Cuba. 

Edward loved coaching.  He spent countless hours in the backyard teaching his children the sport of baseball and softball.  He was also well known by the Eagle Glen kids who often sought his help to learn more about the game and for organizing neighborhood sporting competitions.  As a Little League coach, he enjoyed driving the team to and from games and practices in the back of his truck.  He led his teams to numerous championships, having a lasting effect on so many.  

Edward helped his children achieve much success in athletics and his legacy continues in his grandchildren today as they participate in collegiate sports, which made him very proud.  Much of his time was spent going to the shooting range, fishing on his boat, riding his motorcycle, and avidly rooting for the Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies. 

Edward worked at the Delaware City Refinery for 30 years until his retirement from Shell Oil in 2003.  After that time, he enjoyed working with his son for 10 years in HVAC and spending time with his family. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ventura and Cristina Lilia Crespo Mendez.  Edward is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Margaret (Leonard) Mendez; his children, Edward Mendez of Middletown, Lisa Stasio of Middletown, Shelly Farris (Bill) of Newark, and Kelly Donovan (Matt) of Middletown. He will also be greatly missed by his grandchildren: Stephanie, Samantha, Eddie, Nick, AJ, Lauren, Danielle, Mia, Marisa, Olivia, Julia, Haley, Angie, Sydney, and Katie; and his great-grandchildren, Landon, Avery, and Wrenley.  He also leaves behind his sister, Teresa (Manuel) Alvarez. 

Edward will be remembered for the love and leadership of his family, always lending a helping hand, and putting others first.  He will be missed by many.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE 19808, from 5:00 - 7:00pm on Thursday, November 18, 2021. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30am on Friday, November 19, 2021 at St. Margaret of Scotland Church, 2431 Frazer Road, Newark, DE 19702. Interment will follow in the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Edward’s memory to St. Margaret of Scotland Church at the address listed above. 

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