EDWARD MCGREW

1937 - 2025

EDWARD IRWIN

MCGREW

Oct. 3, 1937 – Apr. 23, 2025

It is with heavy hearts the family of Edward Irwin McGrew shares the news of his peaceful passing at the age of 87, with his loved ones gathered closely around him.

Ed's memory will be forever cherished by his devoted wife of 65 wonderful years, beautiful Patty; his beloved daughters, Margo McGrew (Jerry Preece), Cindy Kirk (George), and Jennifer Thomason (Bryan); and his adoring grandchildren, Edward McGrew, William Irvin, and Isabelle Soule (Margo), Audrey Marie and Isabel Rose (Cindy), and Brad McGrew and Mark Edward (Jennifer). Beyond being an incredible husband, father, and grandfather, Ed was a mentor and confidant to countless people throughout the Imperial Valley and beyond.

Ed was a proud, lifelong resident of the Imperial Valley. He attended Meloland School, Acacia School and Central Union High School, where he was honored to serve as Student Body President. His journey continued at Imperial Valley College before he made his way to Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, a turning point in his life, where he met the love of his life, Patricia Soule. During his time at Cal Poly, Ed's leadership shone brightly as he served as both General Manager of Poly Royal and Student Body President, graduating in 1960 with a degree in Farm Management. In 1971, Ed was included in the edition of Outstanding Young Men of America.

In 1960, Ed and Patty sealed their lifelong partnership, marrying in Susanville, CA. Soon after, Ed answered the call to serve his country, beginning his military service at Fort Sill, OK, leaving behind his new bride with a heart full of promise and love.

When his Army service concluded, Ed and Patty returned to the Imperial Valley, where Ed threw himself into the work he loved, starting at Culver Farms in roles ranging from irrigator to cowboy to office manager. His leadership helped facilitate the sale of Culver Farms to Freshpict Foods. Later, Ed pursued his entrepreneurial dreams, founding Magco, farming in both the Imperial Valley and Yuma, AZ. His ventures expanded further through partnerships in Tammarack Feed Lot and Sandhill Cattle Co.

Driven by innovation, Ed designed and manufactured C-Taps to assist farmers with more efficient irrigation. They are still being manufactured and sold today.

Never one to rest, in 1980, Ed turned his entrepreneurial spirit toward real estate development, building then managing Rio Bend RV Resort. His vision also gave rise to Lakeview Golf Course and Storms Crossing Mobile Estates, creating vibrant communities that would serve generations.

Ed played a vital role in the growth of the Imperial Valley, helping to establish the Imperial Valley Economic Development Committee and contributed to dairy development initiatives. He later developed a medical center in Calexico, and, alongside Patty, became a partner in Heart and Hand Assisted Living and In-Home Care. Most recently, he founded RV Management, overseeing Sunbeam Lake RV Resort.

Ed's contributions didn't end with business. He gave endlessly to his community: a founding director and member of the IV Vegetable Growers Association, Valley Independent Bank and Rabobank, Board of Directors, AgriBusiness Advisor Board Chairman, Past President of El Centro Rotary, Advisory Board Member to Centinela Prison, Advisor to the California Department of Food and Agriculture, Founding Member of The Stockmans Club, Member of The Rustlers, Past President of the El Centro Chamber of Commerce, Member of California Mid-Winter Fair Heritage Foundation, UC Riverside Ag Advisory Board Member, Charter Member of the Sweet Onion Commission, Holtville Unified School District Board Member, and a proud member of The Sheriffs' Posse and Los Vigilantes, as well as a longtime 4-H Leader. In addition, Ed and Patty were Lifetime Achievement honorees for National Philanthropy Day, IV Community Foundation.

Ed's life was a testament to service, leadership, hard work, and love. His impact on his family, friends, and community will be felt for generations to come.

The family is most grateful for the gracious and compassionate care they received from their caregivers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Imperial Valley Food Bank, Pioneers Museum, or The Humane Society of the Imperial Valley.

There will be a Celebration of Life at the Casa de Manana Building on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at 3 p.m.