Pastor Ed

Edwin J. Reichman, known affectionately as Pastor Ed, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2023, in Sayre, PA. Born on March 6, 1933, in Roscoe, NY, a son of the late Frank and Lulu (Will) Reichman. Ed was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and community member whose kindness, faith, and gentle spirit touched all who knew him. Ed graduated from Hancock High School in 1951 and began his career at the NY water supply and then at the Old Buffalo Stamping Plant for Ford Motor Co. His life took a patriotic turn in February 1953 when he was drafted into the US Air Force. In February of 1955, he married his kansas sunflower, Marilyn Warren. His service to the country ended with an honorable discharge in February 1957, after which he returned to Ford Motors. In May 1957, Ed joined IBM Owego, a tenure that would last until his retirement in 1994. His roles were varied, including time in Reliability, the Environmental lab for 16 years, and Quality Engineering. He also worked in the Endicott facility. After contributing to the creation of the 360 computer, he served as a Processing Engineer and then returned to his role as a Component Engineer from where he retired after 38 years with the company. He was a proud member of the IBM Quarter Century Club. Ed also owned a farm in Berkshire, where he raised 16 head of cattle. His daughters, Rhonda and Victoria showed the cattle, going all the way to the State Fair. But Ed's interests extended beyond his professional life and his farm. In 1957, he and his wife Marilyn began a journey of faith that would see them assist in building six churches in Wichita. Ed's faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he preached for 64 years, delivering his first sermon in Denver on Easter Sunday in 1954.

Ed is survived by his daughters: Rhonda (David) Sterrett of OK; Victoria (Brian) Gillispie of VA; LoriAnn Curtis of NY; his grandchildren: Hannah Burge, Ashley Love, Joanna Corbett, Amber Basham, Arika Conley, Jerusha Ware, Noah Curtis, Heidi Curtis, Nathaniel Curtis, Eric Reichman, Brittany Reichman; 9 great grandchildren, and his many nieces and nephews who will also cherish his memory. He was predeceased by his parents, his beloved wife of 62 yrs, Marilyn; a son Troy, a daughter Beth, his son-in-law Frank Curtis, and his grandson Josiah Sterrett. His family and friends will remember him as a kind and gentle man, a faith-filled servant of his community, and a devoted father and friend. Ed never knew a stranger, and in a conversation with him, he would always be sure to ask the question, ‘where do you plan to spend eternity? In heaven or hell?’ His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched. Ed's life was a testament to his faith, his love for his family, and his dedication to his work and community. His memory will continue to inspire those who knew him, and he will be deeply missed. His life was a journey of faith, service, and love, and his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, July 22, 10AM at Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main Street, Nichols, where military honors will be accorded. Memories and condolences may be written in Ed’s guestbook at sutfinfuneralchapel.com. Those who wish may kindly consider a memorial contribution to the Greater Valley Assembly of God, 104 S. Main St., Athens, PA  18810 in loving memory of Edwin J. Reichman.