Edward Thomas Cvelich
May 5, 1942 – January 1, 2026
Edward Thomas Cvelich was born on May 5, 1942, in Long Island, New York, to John and Catherine Cvelich. His family later moved to New Jersey, where he was raised alongside his older sister Catherine, younger brother Thomas, and younger sister Laraine, and where he lived throughout his high school years.
After graduating high school, Ed proudly joined the United States Air Force and was stationed in England. There, a chance cab ride led him to Teresa (Terry), the woman who would become the love of his life. They married in England on December 28, 1963, beginning a love story that spanned more than five decades. After an additional year in England, they returned to the United States.
Ed and Terry settled in New Jersey and later made their home in West Milford, where they built a life centered on friendship, community, and family. During their ten years there, they welcomed their two children, Jackie and Eddie, and formed lifelong bonds with friends who became family.
Their journey later took them to Florida, where Ed started a patio furniture business and reunited with family, then to California, and eventually to Arizona. After seven years, they returned to New Jersey so Ed could resume his work as a union pipefitter and complete the years needed for retirement. True to plan, retirement ultimately brought them back to Arizona.
Ed loved sports throughout his life, playing baseball and softball in his younger years and later finding true joy in golf. The game brought him friendship and countless happy memories. He recently underwent surgery on both hips with hopes of returning to the golf course, but complications revealed acute myeloid leukemia, previously unknown to him and his family.
Above all else, Ed was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and father-in-law. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Terry; his parents, John and Catherine Cvelich; his brother, Thomas; his sister-in-law Marion; and his brother-in-law Cliff.
He is survived by his daughter, Jackie (Don); his son, Eddie (Denny); and his cherished grandchildren, Brooklyn and Ryan, who were the center of his world. He was also an exceptional father-in-law to Don and Denny, welcoming them as family and loving them as his own. He is further survived by his sisters, Catherine (Jack) and Laraine; his sister-in-law Marianne; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Known for his steady presence, warm heart, and open door, Ed welcomed friends as family and made everyone feel at home. He passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, devotion, and deep connection. Now reunited with Terry, his enduring love story continues through the family and friendships he treasured.
What a wonderful poignant tribute to a life well lived. Uncle Ed was a man of many talents and always there to lend support. I know I benefited from his kindness over the years. Sending lots of love ❤️
Rest in peace , dear friend Ed Sr.may our Lord Jesus Christ bless your soul , riise to his Glory & kingdom to eternal life ❤️ 🙏🙏🙏
Dear Cvelich Fsmily,
My condolences on the loss of Edward. Jackie I know how close you were to your Dad and my heart breaks for you. I’m so sorry to hear of his passing. May he rest in peace.
With Deepest and Heartfelt Sympathy,
Arielle
It appears he lived an interesting and full life. Sending love and sympathy to the family.