Rotterdam - Edward A. Villano, 82, of Rotterdam, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 22, 2018 surrounded by his loving family.
Born in his family's home on Monroe Street in Schenectady's Stockade, Ed was the son of the late Stephen and Adeline (De Carlo) Villano. Raised in Rotterdam, Ed attended Draper School. He proudly served his country in the US Army as a Communications Specialist in the 10th Special Forces, and was honorably discharged in 1956. While serving, Ed was awarded the Army of Occupation Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.
Upon discharge, Ed graduated from Simmon's School of Mortuary Science in Syracuse, and was employed in Brooklyn, NY. When he returned to Rotterdam, he began his career at the Albany Stratton VA Hospital. He soon met and married the love of his life, Patty, and together they started their family.
Ed then went to work at St. Clare's Hospital as Chief of Chemistry. Another amazing part of Ed's life was that he was the recipient of a donated kidney, affording him 36 more years of life, which enabled him to give back to his community, by volunteering for numerous organizations.
Ed began a new adventure when he opened Villano Automotive, located on Broadway in Schenectady. He operated his business until his retirement, having serviced the cars of many friends along the way.
Ed was proud to serve his community in the form of his involvement in leadership roles with numerous Veterans service organizations. He belonged to the VFW Post 357, Schenectady Polish American Veterans, Rotterdam Eagles, Rotterdam Elks, and the American Legion Post 1485.
Ed's greatest love was for his family. He cherished every moment spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He will be forever missed and forever loved by all Ed's family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Noe Boiland for years of dedicated friendship.
Predeceased by his loving wife, Patricia, Ed is survived by his children: Deborah Villano, Donna (Edward) Von Stetina, Victoria (Matthew) Robbins, Stephen Villano, and Valerie (Scott) Friello; Grandchildren: Meredith (Eric) Lybrand, Amanda Von Stetina, Julianna Robbins, Sam Robbins, and Dylan Friello; Great-Grandchildren: Ariana, Veronica, Elena, and Troy. Ed is also survived by his sister, Jeanette Thoneman and brother, Stephen Villano, and several nieces, and dearly departed nephews.
Calling hours will be held at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Road, Colonie, New York 12205, on Tuesday, August 28, 2018 from 9:30 am to 11:30 am with a service to immediately follow. Burial will be held at Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Saratoga, NY.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Schenectady Polish American Veterans (PAV), 942 Cutler Street, Schenectady, NY 12303 or the Northeast Kidney Foundation, Inc., 501 New Karner Road, Suite 6, Albany, NY 12205.