Edward W. Wessinger Sr., 86, of North Utica passed away Tuesday July 14, 2009 in St. Elizabeth's Medical Center with his family by his side. Ed was born in Utica on February 21, 1923 the son of Paul and Grace (Duerheimer) Wessinger. Ed served in the Marines Corps during World War II with the 3rd combat division and saw action in Bougainville, the Solomon Islands and the South Pacific.. At Blessed Sacrament Church, Utica on May 6, 1950 Ed was married Barbara Goodhines. Ed began his career with New York Central Railroad and later was employed with Mohawk Airlines and then until his retirement in 1985 the Utica National Insurance Co. He was a member of the American Legion Charles Adrain Post#625, DAV Stars and Stripes Chapter #82, VFW, Marine Corp League of Ilion, NY, and the NFL Touchdown Club. Ed was a life long avid sports fan especially baseball. His favorite baseball team was the NY Giants and hockey team was the NY Rangers. Ed was a founding member of the North Utica Little League where he was also coached. Ed enjoyed reading, especially history, doing crossword puzzles and swimming. Ed is survived by his wife, Barbara, his daughter, Christine Wessinger, Clayton, NY, his four sons and daughter-in-law, Gary Wessinger, Utica, James Wessinger, Liverpool, NY, Robert Wessinger, Whitesboro and Edward and Kimberly Wessinger Jr., North Utica, 7 grandchildren, Amy Blanch and husband, Steve, Pamela Crickmore and husband Josh, Stephanie Wessinger, James Wessinger, Jr., Matthew Wessinger, Brandes Wessinger and Zachary Murdock Wessinger. He is also survived by four great grandchildren and his best canine pal Holly. Mr. Wessinger's funeral with military honors will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2009 at 8:45 from the Heintz Funeral Home, 408 Herkimer Rd., North Utica and at 9:30 from St. Peter's Church, North Utica. Burial will be in St. Peter's Cemetery. Calling hours at the funeral home are Friday from 4-8. Those so wishing may make donations to Abraham House or the Stevens-Swan Humane Society.