Obituary of Edward D. Dratwa

MUNROE FALLS -- I sadly announce that Edward D. Dratwa, my very best friend, partner and loving husband, departed this earth, in the comforts of his home, and was called to God's Kingdom early morning the 4th of April, four months short of his 60th birthday and two months short of our 15th anniversary. We set our future goals together, but our Lord mapped out His plans for us. Verse Nahum 1:7 states the name Edward as ``Wealthy Guardian.' ``The Lord is good, a Stronghold in the day of trouble, and he knoweth them that trust in him.' Ed was born in Ashtabula County (Conneaut, Ohio) August 4, 1951. The lake was his playground while growing up. He and his brother, Walt, shared fun times together. After high school graduation, he moved to Kent to continue his education. He graduated from Kent State University with a degree of Bachelor of Business Administration in 1973. He had a desire for learning. Ongoingly, he attended seminars, bought and read books, listened to motivational tapes and CD's, always focusing how he could improve. I call it ``The Edwardo Library' that we have in our office at home. If he wasn't reading or watching the History channel he would do crossword puzzles. He was my personal teacher. If I did not know something, I turned to him for the answer. We shared many trips together to Borders bookstore. We even took Italian lessons prior to going to Italy. We challenged each other to learn. It was another one of our date nights, along with fine dining. We made it a point to have date nights and pizza pajama parties -- it was one of his favorites. His early years of employment were at various car dealerships locally. Ed shared with me many stories about friends that he made while being employed in the car business (way before my time). He was preceded in death by some of those colleagues through the years. I am sure that they are sharing unforgettable times. He took a giant step forward and opened a used car lot in Ellet. He then moved on to another business venture of becoming a Farmer's Agent. Well, I suppose he had enough of being in the insurance business (self-employed) that he went back to the automotive business Clarke Ford and then the Ganley Organization as finance manager (during our time). Another goal and career change was to enter the financial investment market. He began with Morgan Stanley, then Edward Jones and presently with Merrill Lynch (Hudson branch). He was the behind the scenes partner with me when we opened Mail Boxes, Etc. in early 2000, later to become The UPS Store. We had two locations in North Canton and Massillon. He was my total support and knew how to encourage and keep me calm. Ed had a strong desire to learn to fly. He took flying lessons at Skypark and soloed in 2002. His dream was for us to fly together and visit family and special places. When you see a small plane flying, you can wonder if that's Ed in spirit form I know I will. Ed was preceded in death by his father, Walter. He is survived by his mother, Matrona; sisters, Betty and Donna all live in Charlottesville, Va.; sister, Loretta Malstrom and brother Walter (Nancy) live in Florida; daughter, Stephanie Beer and grandson Donovan live in Kent. He also leaves his special nieces and nephews. His adoptive family by marriage includes Michael and Michelle Heffernan and their children Abby, Jordan and Brady of Cuyahoga Falls. Ed had a very deep love of his family. We had his family reunion in Virginia this past June. He was happy to see everyone there. Ed is certainly being missed by his best ``bud' Michael Sandy. They would talk endlessly a couple times a week. They had a special brotherly love. I know that many friends are feeling the loss. I thank you for the friendship you shared with Ed. He will be looking down on you. Ed was a member of St. Anthony's Parish, Stow-Munroe Falls Chamber, (The Leadership Group 2010/2011) and Silver Lake Country Club. Ed was an organ donor. He gave life. He's our hero! Let us all Celebrate his life and cherish memories and friendships that were made during his life. He had a contagious laughter, along with a terrific sense of humor. If you feel down, when life throws a curve ball, think about what he may have said to you. A memorial Mass will be held at 1 p.m. at St. Anthony's Church, 83 Mosser Place, Akron. Visitation will be at high noon (12:00) prior to the Mass on Saturday, April 9th. In lieu of flowers, a Memorial Fund has been established for Edward Dratwa by his best ``bud' Michael Sandy. Contributions can be made at any First Merit Branch. Your loving wife ``cutie pie/maniac' (Helen Heffernan Dratwa) Anthony Funeral Homes