Edward Decker's Obituary
Edward Decker, 71, of High Springs, Florida passed away peacefully, December 20, 2023 at Serenity Hospice Care Unit/Lake City VA Hospital in Lake City, Florida surrounded by loved ones.
Ed was born and raised in Califon, New Jersey. Predeceased by his parents, Edward William Decker and Evelyn Smith Decker (Califon, NJ), his sister Evelyn Mae Alexander (Gainesville, FL). Childhood best friend, Clarence “JUNEBUG” Burd Jr (Mt. Bethel, PA). Survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Mary Elizabeth Salter Decker, brother-in-law, Keith Salter (Gainesville FL). Ed's two half-sisters, Julia Jensen (Phillipsburg, NJ), Diane Decker (city unknown). Ed's children- Edward (Mandy) Gossnel, High Springs, FL, Tina (George) Torres, Jacksonville, FL, Michael (Gidget) Fasset, Lake Butler, FL, Misty Decker Redding, Lake Butler, FL, Edward W. Decker, Gainesville, FL, as well as, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Lifelong, childhood best friends Rose Apgar Hoover, Califon, NJ and Donald Campbell, Califon, NJ.
At the age of 20, Ed enlisted in the Armed Forces of the United States Army. He began basic training in 1971, at Fort Leonard Wood. Then he was stationed in Korea as a Combat Engineer. Ed was a brave and honorable soldier. He received the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, SS Badge, M-16, First Class Badge, and Grenade. March 30, 1973, Ed received his Honorable Discharge.
Ed then pursued a 30-year career at the Gainesville VA Hospital. He devoted most of his time being an avid HOT ROD enthusiast. Ed and Mary have been active members of the “Gainesville Street Rods” car club for over 30 years. The first cars Ed owned were a ’55 Chevy and a ’57 Chevy, which he absolutely fell in love with. The old Chevys were his favorite cars from then on. His passion for hot rods and old cars led him to acquire one of his own. Ed was the proud owner of a ’46 Ford (with a Chevy motor). He also enjoyed the company of their 5 dogs and many cats.
We will miss Ed dearly and he will forever be in our hearts.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, 11:00 am at Williams-Thomas Funeral Home Westarea N.W. 143rd St. Newberry, FL.
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