Edward S. McInerny, 89, of Franklin died March 11, 2013 in his home. He was the husband of the late Shirley M. (Anderson) McInerny . After 65 years of marriage, Edward and his beloved Shirley died within one week of each other.
Edward was born in Worcester, April 30, 1923, the son of the late Henry and Mary (Stuart) McInerny. He attended area schools in Worcester and from an early age demonstrated a remarkable ability to work with his hands.
After 38 years in Building Maintenance with National Grid, Edward retired to Falmouth in 1985 and then moved to Franklin almost 20 years ago to live near his daughter. Edward and his wife wintered in Englewood, Florida for 18 memorable years. They loved to walk the beach holding hands. Edward was a loving husband, devoted father, caring grandfather, helpful neighbor and good friend to all he met.
Edward built the home in Auburn that his children grew up in and homes for other families as well. His creativity extended to bird houses, play houses, yard ornaments, Irish toys, scooters, swings and sandboxes. His hardworking hands were used to help, provide, and nurture.
Edward was a strong advocate and supporter of the developmentally disabled, serving as a member of the Board of Directors of the Family and Friends of Monson Developmental Center for many years. He devoted his whole life to lift up the lives of others.
Edward served in the United States Army 37th Division during World War II from 1943 to 1945. He saw active combat in the Pacific Theatre and was awarded a Purple Heart.
Edward is survived by his children, Judith Anne Kane and her husband Dennis of Auburn, Donna Estey and her husband Ken of Franklin and David McInerny of Franklin.
He is also survived by his brother Donald McInerny of Millbury and sister Loretta Kane of Silver Spring, Maryland.
He is also survived by his grandchildren Theresa Nordborg, Deborah Whitton, Nancy Hassett, Timothy Kane and Nicole Estey.
He is also survived by 12 great-grandchildren with whom he was a grand story teller, sharing the adventures of his life.
The family wishes to thank Dr. William Shine and the Milford V.N.A. for their dedicated care.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in his memory to the Horace Mann Educational Associates (HMEA), 8 Forge Park, Franklin, MA 02038.
Arrangements are under the care of the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin.