Edward R. Konopka

Edward R. Konopka, 85, was born in Sayreville, New Jersey on October 24th, 1929.  He died peacefully on Friday, June 5th, 2015.

Beloved husband, devoted father, doting grandfather, and loving great-grandfather, his life was one of true love, dedication, commitment, and companionship.  His love story began as he was serving as a young Navy Corpsman at the San Diego Naval Hospital, helping a dying sailor write letters to his sister.  The sister, Shirley, eventually visited her brother in the hospital and met and fell in love with Ed, who had written all the letters.

Ed was transferred to Guam shortly thereafter, and they exchanged letters of their own over a year's time.  He proposed in a love letter; Shirley accepted his proposal.  He soon got leave, traveled to Salt Lake City, and they were married on May 3rd, 1952.  Later his young family of 5 traveled with Ed during his 20 year Naval career.  He retired from the Navy in 1968, bringing his family back to SLC, where he worked for the USPS until he retired again in 1983.

The forever sweethearts nurtured their family, Ed, (Debbie), Cheryl, (Ron), Hugie, and Ken, (Linda), 7 grandkids, and 12 great-grandkids, with compassion; they shared their wit, wisdom, stories, hugs, kisses, and gave of themselves without hesitation.  Ed's lovely wife Shirley, passed away in late November of last year.  He joined the love of his life of 62 years, just six months later.

We are privileged and honored to have shared in your life and to have been a part of your love story that will live on forever.

The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers of Legacy House of Taylorsville, and Inspiration Hospice, especially the precious woman who sat with him during his final night.

A memorial service, where Ed and Shirley will be laid to rest together at the Veterans Cemetery at Camp Williams at a date to be determined in the near future.