Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
For 103 years, Edward Louis Dence lived with an unmatched talent for storytelling, a knack for playful teasing, and an outpouring of total generosity for everyone around him. In the best of times, he was a handful - but his aptitude for humor was incomparable, and knowing him left everyone inarguably better than they'd been before (albeit, a bit confused about whether the "German" he'd more frequently started speaking in his later years was accurate or not). Ed lived in Philadelphia for the entirety of his life, and contributed a history to the city that wouldn't have otherwise existed without him. He proudly served in the US Navy during World War II aboard the USS Mona Island. After the war he had several jobs, retiring from NFL Films in 1983. He was a longtime member of J H Brown Lodge of the Masons, and a "Hillbilly" Shriner. Edward passed away quietly at home on April 19, 2021. He is predeceased by his beloved wife of 57 years, Bertha Dence (nee MacNew) and his son, Richard L Dence. He is survived by his caring sons Edward Dence (Joyce), and Steven Dence (Karen), and his loving daughters Karen Adgalane (James), Linda Graeff (Thomas), Susan Flythe (Thomas), and Nancy LaMartine (Gerald); also 19 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren. He will be laid to rest with his wife Bertha in a private ceremony in the Memorial Garden at Emmanuel Resurrection Episcopal Church, Holmesburg. Please share your fondest memories of Edward on his obituary page at PhillyFunerals.com. Arrangements by McCafferty Sweeney Slabinski Barnes Funerals and Cremations of Torresdale Avenue, John Barnes Supervisor, 215.333.0500
Uncle Ed was very special to me, especially when I lost Dad 41years ago. He was always there for me. I am so sorry that do it to my accident and the pandemic I hadn't seen him recently. There is no doubt in my mind that right now he and my Dad are arguing about things that happened when they were kids. Please know that I loved him very much.
Peggy Dence
April 21, 2021
I had the pleasure of having lunch with Mr. Dence. Mr . Dence made me feel so welcomed and loved. Each child, grandchild, great grandchild and grand dogs , cats and hamsters was his favorite. Mr. Dence volunteered in the soup kitchen up to two years ago. Edward Louis Dence is a perfect example of love of family, country and fellow man. Rest In Peace. All of our lives are changed because of the privilege of knowing you. With Sincere Sympathy and Loving Prayers, Cindy and Larry Auerbach, Dede,...
Cindy Auerbach
April 20, 2021 | Cheltenham, PA
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. Rest In Peace Mr.Dence.
Barb McDaniels
Barbara McDaniels
April 20, 2021 | Philadelphia, PA | Neighbor
Not many can say that they had their Grandfather in their life for 53 years but I'm proud to be one of them. Anyone that knew him knows he could be quite a character but also one of the kindest men you know. He had me convinced as a child that there were wolves in Pennypack Park and would find a dollar bill on the ground every time we went for a walk (then use the money for candy or ice cream). He was part of the greatest generation this country knew and has left a great legacy. We all loved...
Thomas Graeff
April 20, 2021 | Ridley Park, PA | Grandchild
I am sorry to hear of your loss. Please accept my condolences. May the love of God, friends and family carry you through your grief. 2nd Thessalonians 2:16,17.
DT
April 20, 2021
