Edwin L. Sidari

ALBION – Edwin L. Sidari, 79, passed away peacefully March 17, 2023 at the Martin Linsin Hospice residence. He was born in Bismark, North Dakota, a son of the late Rocco A. Sidari Sr. and Angeline (Hess) Sidari.

Ed served in the United States Marine Corps from 1962-1966. He lived a colorful life and created a hundred lifetimes of memories! He experienced a variety of fulfilling friendships, interests, and hobbies throughout his 79 years and is known in our parts as the “Unelected Mayor of Albion” and quite a legend.

Among his many entertaining stories, some of Ed’s favorites were of his time in the Marine Corps (a special connection he shared with his son) and the friendships he made while enlisted. Relationships and connection to people were always important to him. It could be seen in all the facets of who he was and how God used him in this lifetime.

It was seen in his work at Kodak and how he became a self-taught photographer, photo developer, and shutterbug enthusiast. He loved to photograph people in candid moments of life in order to capture their pure emotion and humanness. That talent and interest was passed on to his daughter and remains a special part of their relationship.

Dad’s love for relationship and connection was also seen in the many volunteer positions he held within the community, including as an Orleans County Hospice volunteer, a eucharistic minister at St. Joseph’s parish, COVA volunteer, a youth softball coach, Nursing Home volunteer, Religious Education teacher, volunteer at Bullard Park Recreation Youth Program, head of the unofficial “welcoming committee” for new priests and, most notably, as a professional comedian within our town.

He truly loved talking to people! (and trees, and flag poles, and anything nearby!) He always offered a listening ear, an open heart, and wonderful wisdom to anyone in need. He was a dear friend and confidant to many, and everyone who ever met him will likely have an Eddie story that is highly inappropriate, and that’s what made him so fun!

Some of his other work, interests and hobbies included carpentry (like his dad and brothers), fishing (which is something he introduced his grandson to), antique dealing, and having deep, introspective conversations with his cat, Homer.

One page cannot sum up the essence of Ed Sidari. He was bigger than life and an icon in our community. He provided his children with a wonderful life focused on God, family, and respect for all people and animals, and his legacy of laughter and love will carry on through his family and all those who loved him dearly.

Eddie is survived by his daughter, Stephanie Dinwiddie (Jason); his son, Dominick Sidari (Amber); and his two grandsons, Cole and Zachary.

Ed’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 W. Avenue, Albion, on Tuesday, March 21, from 4 to 7 p.m. Ed’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Family Parish-St. Joseph’s Church on Wednesday, March 22, at 10 a.m. Interment with Military Honors at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Supportive Care of Orleans (Hospice) 14080 Rt. 31, Albion, NY 14411 or Holy Family Parish 106 S. Main St. Albion, NY 14411.

To share a special memory of Ed, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.