Edmund McDonough, 95, Served in World War II

Edmund McDonough of Vineyard Haven died on Tuesday, Jan. 24. He was 95 years old.

Life began for Ned as he was affectionately called, in Letterfore, Ireland. He was born on the family farm and was the youngest of 10 children. The hardship of daily life there combined with the startling natural beauty of his environment helped to shape him as a person. Many times throughout the course of his life, he would hark back to these things. Both became touchstones for him and guided his decisions.

At the age of 19, Ned left Ireland and came to America. He lived in New York city with his older sister whom he had never met before. This was during the depression and times were difficult, but he was able to work at many jobs. His background had made him very resourceful.

After achieving United States citizenship, he was drafted into the U.S. Army at the age of 31. He served in the European Theatre during World War II as a communication specialist.

Upon his return to the states, he passed the civil service exam and was hired as an electrical technician for the New York Transit Authority, where he stayed for 27 years.

Ned had a love of learning and was an avid reader. He was well versed in history, politics and science. Although he was "movie star handsome" he remained a bachelor for many years.

One day, at the age of 75, he met a lovely woman on a park bench in the courtyard of his apartment building. The attraction was instant, and after a four month whirlwind courtship, they were married.

He instantly acquired two daughters and three grandchildren. In years to come, great-grandchildren were born - five to be exact. Ned took delight in each of them. He was a father to all of them, giving and receiving unconditional love.

Ned loved living on Martha's Vineyard. It reminded him of Ireland "only better weather". Every day spent here was a treasure to him and he was a treasure to all who knew him.

Ned is survived by his wife of 20 years, Marguerite, his two daughters, Maureen Fischer of West Tisbury and Marguerite Repola of Pawley's Island, S.C., three grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and countless numbers of nieces and nephews.

There will be a memorial mass and a celebration of Ned's life in the spring. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Martha's Vineyard, P.O. Box 2549, Oak Bluffs. Arrangements are under the care of the Chapman, Cole & Gleason Funeral Home, Edgartown-Vineyard Haven Road, Oak Bluffs. Visit www.ccgfuneralhome.com for online guest book and information.