Edward E. Eaker
Edward E. Eaker
Edward E. Eaker, 87, of Dunkirk, NY, passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at the Chautauqua Nursing and Rehabilitation Center after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s. He was born in Dunkirk on September 15,1938 to late Edward F. Eaker and Carolyn Witherall Eaker. He was the husband of the late Mary Ann (Panek) Eaker, celebrating 60 years of marriage in July 2020, just prior to her death.
Ed graduated from Cardinal Mindszenty High School in 1957. He joined the United States Army serving from 1961 to 1963. For many years Ed was a salesman for Rich Food Plans out of Perry, N.Y. He was recognized on numerous occasions as Salesman of the Year. Although Ed and Mary Ann had no children of their own, as an uncle he left a definite mark on his many nieces and nephews. He was such an integral part of their lives, enjoying them on birthdays, Christmas and many large family gatherings. He was particularly influential in his nephews’ lives providing guidance, advice and support. Ed was actively involved in various sports programs at Cardinal Mindszenty High School. He coached Junior Varsity basketball and Varsity baseball. His proudest moment was when his 1977 team won the prestigious Georgetown Cup, the baseball championship of the Msgr. Martin League. Ed and his late brother, Bob, became involved in producing sports radio programs, eventually expanding on to Cable Access12. Ed did many play-by-play football, basketball and baseball of local high school games. He was recognized by the Chautauqua Sports Hall of Fame. He and Bob began a weekly sports show called Spots Rap. The latest sports news was discussed, and listeners had the opportunity to call in and chat or to answer various trivia questions. Ed was a lifelong fan of the Cleveland Browns, having season tickets for many years. In addition, he was a Cleveland Indians fan attending numerous games each season. For many years, he and Mary Ann traveled to Florida during baseball’s spring training, attending many games. Ed was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 929. For many years, he managed the Friday night fish fry’s in the club room. He was a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Dunkirk.
Survivors include brothers-in-law, Stephen Promber and Jack Panek. Sisters-in-law, Kathryn Eaker, Carole Schiller and Virginia Lanphere. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann, his brother, Robert Eaker and his sisters, Judith Promber and Carol Schuk;
his nephew, Stephen Jefffrey Promber and great-nephew, Jacob Schuk.
The family wishes to express their deep appreciation to the staff of the Chautauqua Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the wonderful and loving care that Ed received.
Calling hours will be held at the LARSON-TIMKO Funeral Home, 20 Central Ave., Fredonia, on Saturday April 18, 2029 from 9:30-10:30 am, where a funeral service will follow at 10:30 am. Online condolences may be made at larsontimkofuneralhome.com. Arrangements by David J. Dengler.