Henry C. Eder

JOSHUA — Henry C. Eder Sr., 72, finished his earthly journey and started his new one with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2014. He passed away peacefully at home after a 20-month battle with cancer.        Funeral: 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1, at St. Matthew Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Burleson. Visitation: 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Mayfield Kiser Funeral Home. Rosary to begin at 4 p.m.        Memorials: The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Cook Children’s Medical Center and/or the American Cancer Society in honor of Henry.        He was born on Jan. 14, 1942, in Baltimore, Md., to Henry and Leona Eder. He graduated from Glen Burnie Senior High School in 1960. He enlisted in the Army after graduation and served for seven years. At 21, Henry was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for his meritorious service from September 1961 – June 1962 while stationed with the 321st U.S. Army Security Agency Battalion (Corps) in Korea. The citation read: His strong initiative, outstanding leadership and superior knowledge of motor pool procedures aided immeasurably to the efficiency of the motor pool. He received the honor on Nov. 23, 1962, and was honored with a parade at Fort Wolters in Mineral Wells.        He met and married Clara Cowley on Jan. 26, 1963, in Lipan while stationed at Fort Wolters. They celebrated 51 years of marriage.        He graduated from TCJC with an associate of applied science degree with high honors in May 1975. He was an entrepreneur at heart and began his own computer consulting business, which he maintained for 20-plus years. Later, he worked for a mortgage loan company. Finally, he worked the concession stand and served as an attendant for 10 years at Hidden Creek Softball Complex in Burleson, where he was known as “Pops.” In addition to his career, he served as an usher for St. Ann’s Catholic Church for 30 years. He served on several church committees and trained many ushers.        Henry enjoyed reading the paper, watching sports, fishing, hunting and golfing with his sons, traveling with his wife and supporting his grandchildren in their endeavors. His favorite pastimes also included having coffee and eating out with dear friends, and above all telling a joke or teasing to make you laugh and giving a big loving hug. Henry didn’t know a stranger, everyone was a friend. Heaven gained a comedian – hope they’re ready for him!        He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Leona Eder; and brothers, William McCann and Howard McCann.        Survivors: He is survived by his wife, Clara Eder; children, Henry C. Eder Jr. (Donna), Danny Eder, Lori Lusk (Wes), Mark Eder (Michele), David Eder (Belinda); 12 grandchildren; his sister, Gerry Luckett (Bob); brother, Stanley McCann (Nancy); mother-in-law, Maggie Cowley; and numerous other relatives.