Edward J. Cantz passed away peacefully on February 5, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family. He was 87 years old.

Edward was a devoted husband to Eileen Cantz (nee Pierce) for 64 years. Together, they built a beautiful life full of love and cherished memories. He was a proud father to Edward Cantz (Barbara) and Christopher Cantz (Jessica), and a loving Pop Pop to Bryan, Kevin, Justin, Christopher, and Ryan. His family grew even richer with the blessing of five great-grandchildren, Christopher, Greyson, Meadow, Jaxxon and Roman to whom he was a treasured great-grandpop. He was the dear brother of the late Dolores Atkinson-Sr. St. Richard, OSF, and the late Richard Atkinson.

A proud United States Army Veteran, Ed served his country from 1956-1959. He carried that sense of dedication throughout his life. After retiring from a long career with McKesson Drug Company, Ed found the retirement job of his dreams working as a security guard for the Wells Fargo Center. One of his main jobs was to guard the Flyers locker room. As a lifelong Flyers fan, Ed found joy in being a part of the team.

Ed's life was filled with energy and adventure. He loved traveling with his wife, whether it was to Ireland, Alaska, or even Montreal in 1976 for the Summer Olympics. In 1988, they also ventured to Calgary for the Winter Olympics. Ed took great pride in his Irish roots, even getting a tattoo of the Irish flag on his leg after a St. Patrick's Day celebration—much to the surprise of his wife and sons, especially since he was 60 at the time.

That same year he completed the Philadelphia Marathon a testament to his resilience and spirit. He also cherished his role as a coach, teaching his children the sports he loved—baseball, basketball, and football.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Burns Funeral Home, 9708 Frankford Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19114, at 12:00 PM, followed by his service at 1:00 PM. Interment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital , 501 St. Jude Pl. Memphis, TN 38105.