Edward Anthony Kabat

Edward Anthony Kabat Ed's plan to live forever ended on May 3, 2014. He is now reunited with his wife and favorite dance partner, Marie; who predeceased him. His life journey began in Cleveland, Ohio on January 11, 1921 when his parents, Mary (Cvrk) and Edward Kabat welcomed him. Raised during the depression, he relished life earning the title of neighborhood rascal. Industrious at 10, he ushered for the Cleveland Indians, meeting all the greats. He graduated from John Adams High School and began work. He met Marie at a dance where "she lit up the room" and continued that for 67 years. He served on the European Front in WWII in the army. He married Marie in 1945 and began work at NACA building secret projects for the government. Later NACA became NASA. He moved his family to Tucson in 1956 for Marie's health. He worked at Hughes Aircraft and last at DMAFB until he was injured by a forklift. He loved dancing, bowling and later bingo; he loved the Wildcats and Arizona Diamondbacks. He loved meat and potatoes but hated vegetables. First and foremost he was a dedicated and loving husband and father. He was a man's man and often liked to tell a bawdy joke. Ed's life was an illustration of deep faith, personal integrity, compassion, honor and desire to do the right thing, he listened without judgment. We thought John Wayne modeled himself after our Dad. He was predeceased by two brothers, one sister and his son, Gregory; He is survived by his daughter, Nancy; his son, Geoffrey; his granddaughter, Jade; his grandson, Nico; cousin, Gilbert Vasek; brother-in-law, James Matuska; sister-in-law, Mary Marek; Devoted friend, Michael S. Nichols and many nieces and nephews and friends. Memorial Mass 1:00 p.m., Saturday, May 10, 2014 at St Josephs Church, 215 S. Craycroft. Reception immediately after. Donations may be made to the Salvation Army. Arrangements by BRINGS BROADWAY CHAPEL