Edward R. Groves, 98, of Milford, passed away peacefully at home on August 2, 2026.

Edward R. Groves, 98, of Milford, beloved husband of 70 years to the late Irene (Fogler) Groves, passed away peacefully at home on August 2, 2026 surrounded by his four daughters. Born on February 23, 1928 in West Haven, CT, he was the son of the late William and Ella (Borchert) Groves.

Edward lived a remarkable life that spanned nearly a century of American history. Raised in the City Point section of New Haven, Connecticut, he witnessed a world that changed in extraordinary ways, and he carried those memories with him throughout his life.

As an infant, Edward attended a parade in New Haven with his family, where First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt noticed him in the crowd and affectionately pinched his cheek saying, “What a cute baby”. One of his earliest memories was watching the great Hindenburg airship pass over City Point. As the enormous airship floated overhead, Edward remembered being dressed in knickers and sticking out his tongue at it—a story that became a cherished family memory. He and his classmates at St. Peter’s School were released from school in the middle of the Hurricane of 1938, when he ran from porch to porch to avoid the heavy wind and rain. A tree fell and crushed a front porch just as he fled from it.

Growing up, he remembered riding New Haven's trolley cars, the horse-and-buggy delivering blocks of ice and seeing Civil War veterans attending Memorial Day celebrations. He often reflected on those simpler times and the remarkable changes he witnessed over the decades. As a teenager, eager to work, he fibbed about his age—claiming to be 16 when he was actually 14—to land his first job delivering flowers. That determination and strong work ethic would define his entire life.

Edward also fondly recalled the opening of the Merritt and Wilbur Cross Parkways. Riding along those new roads, he watched in amazement as the speedometer climbed to an astonishing 55 miles per hour—a speed that seemed almost unimaginable at the time.

Like so many of his generation, Edward answered the call to serve his country. Reflecting on his military service in Germany following World War II, he once said, "While serving in Germany, I was guarding the Germans as they sifted through the rubble." Those experiences gave him a lasting appreciation for history, peace, and the resilience of the human spirit.

In 1952, Edward married the love of his life, Irene, and made Milford his home, where he built a life centered on family, hard work, and service to others. He worked as an electrician at Sikorsky Aircraft and later at BIC, earning the respect of coworkers through his skill, dependability, and unwavering work ethic. He even rode his bike early to work in the 1970’s, to save on gas.

Always enterprising, Edward was a gifted carpenter who could build or repair just about anything.

Edward possessed a curious and inventive mind. He was an accomplished photographer whose eye captured both beauty and everyday moments. Erin, Edward’s caregiver, stated “ Ed seemed to love anything with bold, vibrant colors. He was always enamoured by them in the wonders of nature.” His creativity often led him to sketch ideas for inventions, including innovative boat designs that reflected both his imagination and practical nature.

An avid reader throughout his life, Edward immersed himself in history, current events, and biographies. His knowledge was broad, his curiosity never faded, and he welcomed thoughtful conversation with an open mind. He was a man of dignity, wisdom, and quiet intelligence whose opinions were informed by a lifetime of learning.

Retirement opened new doors for Edward. He remained active for many years, generously sharing his time, talents, and enthusiasm with organizations that became an important part of his life. He participated in the Milford Senior Center, the HaruGari German American Singing Society in West Haven, the Plymouth Men's Club, and the First United Church of Christ in Milford. He volunteered with the Sikorsky Archives in Stratford, contributed to the Connecticut Air & Space Center, where he helped rebuild the aircraft, Sikorsky’s VS-44A Excambian. He supported Schooner Inc. on Water Street in New Haven. Wherever he was, he formed lasting friendships and earned the admiration of those around him.

Edward was also a wonderful neighbor and loyal friend. He was well liked and deeply respected by all who knew him. His kindness, integrity, willingness to help others, and gentle manner left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. Always active by nature, neighbors will remember Edward navigating his hilly neighborhood with the aid of a rollator into his 98th year.

Above all else, Edward was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, a caring, comforting father, and a proud grandfather. He spent time with his grandchildren as he did with his own children. Some fond memories from his children are hiking up to the top of Sleeping Giant and family picnics at Kettletown State Park. Alexander, his oldest grandchild, said “I remember fishing for flatfish with him as a kid. I had never gone fishing before but we managed to catch at least two. I loved helping him with his boat and forward rowing invention at various stages, including trying it out on a river.” Eleanor, his granddaughter, will always remember his witty humor and will miss visiting her grandfather sitting in his front chair. His family always came first. He chose to devote his time, energy, and resources to providing for those he loved. His sacrifices were made without complaint because his greatest joy was seeing his family thrive.

Edward's life reminds us that greatness is often found not in grand gestures, but in quiet dedication—to family, to work, to community, and to lifelong learning. He witnessed history, contributed to it in his own way, and left behind a legacy built on character, generosity, and love.

He will be remembered as a true gentleman whose steady presence, wisdom, and unwavering devotion enriched the lives of so many. His memory will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.

He will be immensely missed and forever remembered.

Edward is survived by his children, Carol (James) Bertilson, Judith (Ian) Percival, Elise Groves, and Ellen (John) Paiva; his grandchildren, Alexander (Jackie) and Eleanor; step-grandchildren, Alex (Emily) Paiva and Jessica (Nancy) Paiva; He was predeceased by his sister, Doris Groves and brother, William Groves.

All services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Knights of Columbus at www.santamariakofcmilford.org or a charity of choice.

The family is being cared for by the staff of Cody-White Funeral Home 107 Broad St., Milford, CT.

To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.