Edward Merl Aldrich, age 72, of Riverview, FL, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 1, 2022 at Melech Hospice House in Temple Terrace, FL.

He was born on May 17, 1949 to Russell and Leona (Brennaman) Aldrich in Indianapolis, IN. Edward married Flossie Taylor on September 18, 2018, and she survives.

Ed was raised in Lawrence, IN, and graduated from high school from Lawrence Central High. After high school, he became a mobile home salesman, which led to his relocation to Florida. Ed had a passion for cars, music, and boating. He spent countless hours on the water and tinkering around in his garage. Friends and family will remember him for his fun, outgoing attitude, and the love that he had for his family. Ed will be missed by so many, but his wonderful memories will live on forever.

Besides his wife, Flossie, he is survived by his three children, Donna (Brad) Paulding of California, Elizabeth (Wade) Burns, and Edward (Rebecca) Aldrich both of Southern Illinois; a step-son, Justin (Sami) Craythorn of New Jersey; eight grandchildren, Alycia (Eric) Ellett, Delanie (Frankie) Acosta, Kelsie Hand, Mitchell (Lyndsey) Paulding, Landon Paulding, Noah Smith, Emily Aldrich and fiancé Bailey Dahmer, and Natalie Aldrich; four step-grandchildren, Savannah, Chase, Riley, and Paisley Craythorn; six great-grandchildren, Liam, Raelynn, Kaden, Makenna, Charlotte, and Atia; a nephew, Justin (Jessica) Aldrich; two nieces, Amanda (Olito) Pierluissi and Jessica (Jordan) Parker; and several other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Wayne Aldrich; a sister, Sonya (Aldrich) Wise; a nephew, Dale McKinze; and a niece, Diana McKinze.

The family will hold a private celebration in honor of Edward's life at a later date.