(1937-2021) Edwin Joseph Truitt, a dedicated public servant, loving husband and father, and friend to many, passed away Friday, April 9, 2021. He was 83.

 

Born June 23, 1937 in Upper Darby to Edwin D. and Christine Lecker Truitt, he attended St. Laurence School, West Catholic High School and Villanova University. He met the love of his life, Joanne Lecher, at a Holy Cross dance in 1954. They married in 1958 and had four children, Kristen, Carol, Suzanne, and Robert. His career in public service spanned over five decades. Ed was the Director of Delaware County Emergency Services from 1976 until his retirement in 2016.

 

He was instrumental in establishing the Commonwealth’s 911 system, forming the County’s multi-municipality radio system, and leading the SEPA Regional Counter Terrorism Task Force. He was Delaware County Director of Homeland Security and was appointed Director of Civil Defense by the Honorable Governor Milton Schapp. He was the VP of Upper Darby Township Council, Chairman of the Finance Committee, and Chairman of the Township Communications Commission. He received numerous domestic and international awards for outstanding community service, Emergency Services, Homeland Security, and service to Firefighters and First Responders. Many will also remember Ed for his work with the Upper Darby Town Watch program, which he founded in the 1970’s. Ed’s committment to the safety and well-being of the people of Delaware County and beyond was his motivating force. During times of emergency and severe threat, he could be found at the 911 Center or mobile command unit around the clock. Ed was a voracious reader who would finish 4-5 books per week. He enjoyed daily crossword puzzles and was a true wiz at Jeopardy. For many years he enjoyed golfing, relaxing at the Jersey Shore, playing cards with friends, and having movie nights with his family. He also loved spending quality time fishing with his grandchildren and having a weekly Boys’ Night. Ed had a few infamous recipes, including a special bolognese sauce reserved for Christmas Eve and an open-faced tomato and provolone sandwich lovingly referred to as “Pop-pop’s Sandwich.” He was quick-witted and had a light-hearted sense of humor, which always came to life in his one-of-a-kind, boisterous, off-key rendition of the Happy Birthday song. He appreciated the little things in life and would rather spend the day sitting on his back patio with his family and beloved dogs than be anywhere else in the world.

 

He is survived by his loving wife Joanne; daughters Kristen Pund (Jack), Carol Kleinschmidt (Marty), and Suzanne Cedrone (Phillip); and is predeceased by his son Robert. He is also survived by his dear brother David R. (Sue); five grandsons, Christopher, Aaron, Nicholas, Michael, and Alexander; and 5 nieces and nephews; Scott, Greg, Tracy, Matthew and Alice.

 

Services will be private due to COVID-19 precautions at the Toppitzer Funeral Home, with Interment in the Monticello Mausoleum at Arlington Cemetery.

 

Memorial Contributions may be made to Tiny Paws Rescue (www.tprescue.org/donate). Online condolences: www.Arlingtoncemetery.us