Edward "Ed" Love

Edward "Ed" Frank Love, 93 years old, a longtime resident of Vassar, passed away with his family by his side and is now in the arms of our Lord. Edward was born in Miami, Florida, on February 20, 1925, to Emma St. Clair and Edward F. Velasquez. He was baptized on July 12, 1925, at Gesu Catholic Church, in Miami. Edward was a longtime member of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Catholic Church in Vassar. Edward proudly served in the United States Navy from 1943 until receiving his honorable discharge in 1952. He served on the U.S.S. Mobjack, a small Seaplane Tender, the U.S.S. Fulton, a Submarine Tender, and the U.S.S. Marias a Class Fleet Oiler, participating in operations in the Pacific during World War II. He married Marietta Fontaine on September 17, 1949. Sadly, she preceded him in death on January 1, 2013; they were married for 62 years. Edward has two daughters: Antoinette "Toni" and husband, Dennis Kern, and Licia and husband, Bob Bank both of Vassar; seven grandchildren, and their respective spouses; 20 great-grandchildren, all who loved him dearly. Edward was a Millwright at Buick until retiring in 1987, after 32-years of service. He loved working outdoors and traveling around the country in their motorhome. After retirement, he and his wife spent their winters in Paradise, California, then finally in Gulf Shores, Alabama. As Edward's life slowed down, he loved tending to a garden, drinking a good cup of coffee, and just enjoying the outdoor sunshine. Edward's family would like to extend a special thank you to Father Christian Tabares' message of God's love and promises. A special blessing to Frank, Ed's friend in Christ; Ed thoroughly enjoyed your visits. During Ed's last years he was able to enjoy the comforts of his own home due to the loving care from Hannah, Marlene, Penny, Teresa, Liesa, and Mary. Your devotion to Ed's welfare over the years will never be forgotten. Our sincere appreciation to the caring staff at Covenant Glen, Frankenmuth, where Ed spent his last months, and to the compassionate hospice staff making Ed's last days peaceful. Our love and deepest gratitude go to each of you. Edward was preceded in death by his wife Marietta and his sister Thelma Canfield. Mass of Christian Burial will take place, 11:00 am, Friday, December 21, 2018, at St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Catholic Church, 334 Division St. Vassar. Edward's family will be present at the Martin Funeral Home in Vassar to receive guests on Thursday from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm. On Thursday evening, family, friends, and parish will gather for a Vigil service at 6:00 pm. On Friday morning, Edward will be taken to the church to lie in state from 10:00 am until the time of the funeral mass at 11:00 am. Father Christian Tabares officiating with burial to follow at Eastlawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Saginaw; graveside military honors conducted by American Legion Post 22 in Saginaw. Those desiring may consider memorial contributions to the St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Catholic Church. Envelopes are available at the funeral home and church.