I don't know where to begin. Eddie was a beautiful person; kind, loving, generous, and caring. There is no greater testimony to his generosity and kindness than how he brought people together at Thanksgiving.
He cared deeply for others and most especially Jeanette, Taryn, Tierney, and his sisters whom he loved from the bottom of his heart. Eddie was the best dad ever to his daughters. He also extended himself to those in need of a dad or a friend. To my children, he was "Uncle Eddie" and not a second cousin.
I have memories of him from our childhood when he came to Forest City to visit, knock on my door, and ask "Is Greg [my brother] home?" I always thought he was so cool and handsome and he was my cousin! I also remember Eddie asking us to start calling him "Eddie" and not his nickname "Teddy." (Sorry for mentioning your nickname, Eddie.)
My memories of Eddie always include his beloved place at Lewis Lake. Eddie brought laughter and fun to everyone's lives, especially at the lake. He built camp fires, pulled kids on tubes behind his boat, and peacefully fished in the evenings.
I am devastated by the loss of Eddie, but I am thankful each day to have known such a great man. Rest in peace, cousin.