Edward P Burnham

Edward P. "Eddie" Burnham, of Holden and Centerville, died peacefully with his daughter and granddaughter by his side on Tuesday, April 15, 2014. He would have celebrated his 96th birthday on Tuesday, April 22. His beloved wife of 66 years, Congetta T. (Fratantonio) Burnham, predeceased him on July 26, 2008. He is survived by his daughter, Brenda T. Meringolo and her husband Nicholas of Holden, his primary caregivers; his 2 sons and their wives, George W. Burnham (Sheila) of Princeton and Edward F. Burnham (Kathleen) Bradenton; his granddaughters, Cara Meringolo, Christine Contreras and Beth Grimley; great grandchildren; and extended family, including many nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by his brother George Burnham and sisters: Evelyn Maurice, Mildred Morello, Emily Bell, and Shirley Turo. Born in Worcester on April 22, 1918 he was the son of the late George and Anna (McGrath) Burnham and attended Worcester Schools. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1941 and proudly served his country during World War II as a radio operator with the 535th Field Artillery Battalion stationed in Central Europe where he fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He was honorably discharged in 1945. After returning home from the war he went to work for the City of Worcester, Department of Public Works, where he was employed for most of his life. Following retirement from the city, he worked a number of other positions and did not fully retire until the age of 84. A child of the Depression and member of the Greatest Generation, his life was defined by his commitment to family, country, and work. He was a genial man with an easy smile and generous spirit, always quick to help those with a need. A cherished father and adored grandfather, he will be lovingly remembered as a good man who enjoyed life's simple pleasures. A Liturgy of the Word will be held Friday, April 18th at 10:30 am in Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church 24 Mulberry St. Burial will be private. There are no calling hours; Memorial remembrances in his name can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, St Jude Place, Memphis Tenn. 38105. THE MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. is honored to assist the family with arrangements.