Edward Andrew Sutton

Pisgah Forest - Edward Andrew Sutton, professional mountain bike trail-builder and avid motorcyclist passed away on February 2 following a brief battle with cancer. He was 68 years old.
Ed, known to close family as "Ted," was born in Newark, NJ, on September 13, 1957 to Edward E. Sutton and Mary Kay (Murray) Sutton. He was raised in Morris Plains, NJ and graduated from Delbarton School in Morristown, NJ, where he ran cross country and played football. He attended North Carolina State University majoring in Forestry.
Ed's passion for challenging outdoor activities started at an early age. As a youth, he spent countless hours hiking, biking and riding his many "homemade" motorcycles in heavily wooded areas not always willing to bend with his plan. It was a familiar sight to see him exiting the woods, walking his moto home, muddy, defeated and tired. He learned, loved and pocketed every experience.
After college, Ed took a wide life-turn and tried his hand at logging in Idaho for a year. He returned to NC to continue his logging talents when a vacation at the family home in Key Largo, FL opened the door to a new adventure: He owned and operated Island Tree Service for 10 years, while pursuing his new passions, mountain biking and windsurfing. He travelled extensively to hone his skills in both sports and made great friends along the way.
Florida is also where Ed met the love of his life, Sophia. She embraced, understood and encouraged his zest for all-things outdoors. They married on November 23, 1996. They moved back to NC and Ed spent the next year building their dream home on the lake in Pisgah Forest. They welcomed a son, (his riding buddy) Rudy, in 1999.
Ed's dream of colliding his talents in landscape design and mountain biking took hold in the early 90s. As a rider, he saw a tremendous need for diverse, aesthetic and importantly, sustainable mountain bike trails. He embraced the opportunity and with Sophia, started Trail Dynamics in Brevard, NC in 2002. Their company and reputation grew quickly and by 2020, they had completed jobs in 20 different states. Ed was a true leader in the mountain biking community and his company received many industry awards for his professionalism, innovation and personal approach.
Ed was most proud of his loving family, loyal crew and far-reaching friend base. He is predeceased by his parents, Edward and Mary Kay Sutton. He is survived by his wife Sophia, son Rudy, mother-in-law Victoria Hoagland, sister BethAnn Robertiello (Jim), brother Doug Sutton (Judy), brothers-in-law Wayne (Sue) and Paul (Helen) Morrison. Nephews Jim Robertiello (Stephanie), Justin Robertiello (Erin), Ian Sutton (Emily) and Philip Morrison; Nieces Alexa Bourque (Chris). Sarah Gumpter (Matt), Marisa Fiechuk (Dave) and Cheyenne Morrison. He just loved the new additions, grand nieces Annie Sutton and Isla Bourque.
In the words of the cycling association SORBA, "Ed was always generous with his time, his knowledge and his smile. Ed's impact and influence will be felt for generations every time someone rolls down a trail he helped bring to life."
The family will be holding a celebration of his life at a later date.
Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com

Moody Connolly Funeral Home is caring for the family.