Edward Stankovich 1947-2024

Ed was a proud Vietnam veteran who fought a courageous battle for his country during his tour of duty as an Army corpsman.

Ed was born Sept. 6, 1947, to Lucien and Marie Stankovich (deceased), in Sharon, Pa. He was preceded in death by his brother, Ron Stankovich (Regina).

Ed met the love of his life, Kathleen, in 1998. Excited to start their new lives together, the two were married on Sept. 19, 1999, in Las Vegas. Together they built a new life filled with love and laughter.

Ed always loved a good debate and giving his loved ones his Polish philosophy on any and every subject (and of course, he insisted he was always right). His family affectionately referred to him as “The Great Polish Philosopher.” He loved to stir the pot. They shared numerous adventures in Las Vegas and Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina. They loved to travel and spent many good times vacationing with family and friends.

Ed was a beloved stepfather, cherished father figure and a beacon of love, guidance and support to his stepchildren, Holly Dermer Spicer (Richard), Donnie Dermer (Jennifer), Danielle Dermer Mimnaugh (Jeff), Erica Dermer Thompson (Steve) and Cory Christie. He embodied the essence of a second dad. He was also a devoted grandfather to Marisa Dermer Becker (Brian), Emma Dermer, Allison and Ethan Mimnaugh, Connor and Parker Thompson; and his first great-grandchild, Stella Becker. From the moment he entered their lives, he embraced his role as a stepfather and grandfather with unmatched dedication and devotion. His love knew no bounds and he treated his stepchildren as his own flesh and blood.

One of his greatest joys in life was attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and dance recitals. He was always there to cheer them on and they will miss him dearly! Ed also had a soft spot for his Pug “fur babies,” Zoe and Zelda, and loved and treated them like they were his children. His beloved pugs, Mabel and Peewee, preceded him in death.

Ed also leaves behind his sisters-in-law, Marcia Jacobs (John) and Loree Gonzales (Michael); and special cousin, Patricia Zupanc (Zip), who loved him like a brother, enjoyed his sense of humor and cherished the many happy memories they made together. Zip, whom he affectionately referred to as one of his “three amigos,” preceded him in death. He was also a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Ed worked at General Motors in Lordstown and retired at the age of 50 after 30 years of employment.

Ed was known for his avid devotion to his favorite football team, the Cleveland Browns. His greatest wish was to see them go to the Super Bowl, and he always said, “just one before I die.” They almost made it in 2023 and he was ecstatic. Sadly, that wish was not granted, but we are all sure he will continue rooting for them from heaven until they get there. Ed was also known for his fun storytelling, his jokes, his pranks and his profound love for life and adventure. Though he may be gone from this earthly realm, the memories of Ed’s love and kindness will live on forever in the hearts of his family, friends and all who were fortunate enough to know him. May he rest in eternal peace, knowing that his love lives on in the hearts of those he cherished.

Instead of calling hours, the family will hold a private celebration of life with a Cleveland Browns-themed gathering to honor his memory in the way that Ed would have enjoyed most.

The family would like to thank everyone for all the prayers, words of encouragement and support during this difficult time.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Ed’s favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, at http://events.stjude.org/edwardstankovich, in his memory.

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