Obituary of Edward Van Avery

Edward Van Avery, 73, passed away Monday, December 22, 2008 at his residence. He was born July 17, 1935 in North Adams, MA, the son of the late Clarence and Avilda Jackson Van Avery. Ed was employed as a leather worker at Wood & Hyde Leather Corp. in Gloversville. He also worked for Commonwealth Labs for ten years and for Hoffman Excavating in Latham. Mr. Van Avery served his country proudly in the United States Air Force from 1952 to 1956. He served tours in Morocco, North Africa. Ed was a life member of the D.A.V. in Gloversville and a member of the American Legion Post #137, of which he was a former Commander. Mr. Van Avery was also a past Grand Marshall of the Veteran's Day Parade. He also took great pride in volunteering to drive other veterans to the V.A. hospital in Albany. Ed loved camping, spending time with his grandchildren and was an avid fan of the New York Giants. He is survived by his ex-wife, Rita Wilson Van Avery of Gloversville, whom he married October 26, 1957; six children: Sandra Van Avery of Gloversville, Gregory Van Avery of Gloversville, Peggy Jo Kennedy John of Bleeker, Dawn Nellis Stuart of Meco, Eric Van Avery Tammy of Johnstown and Steve Van Avery Tia of Saratoga; seventeen grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren; a half brother, Steve Rose of Nunica, MI and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Ed was predeceased by a son, Daniel Van Avery on July 15, 1990; a granddaughter, Crystal Van Avery and two sisters: Patsy Van Nostrand and Gloria "Dixie" Greenfield. Family and friends are invited and may call Friday, December 26 from 11a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, 51 Fremont Street, Gloversville. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. with Pastor Earl Colson presiding. Interment will be at Ferndale Cemetery at 10 a.m. on Monday, December 29. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ed's memory to Stratton V.A. Hospital, 113 Holland Ave. Albany, NY 12208