Obituary of Edward J. Weitmann

Edward Weitmann, 65, of Willowemoc, New York passed away peacefully at home on February 14, 2015. Ed was born March 19, 1949 in Suffern, New York. He is the son of the late Mary and Ronald Weitmann. He is survived by his sisters, Deborah Russell and Suzanne Speed both of Tennessee; several nieces and nephews; his former wife, Laura Quigley of North Branch; and many good friends. Ed lived in Pearl River, New York until his family moved to Hollywood Florida when he was 8 years old. He was a Cub Scout and graduated from McArthur High School in Hollywood in 1967. He served his country honorably in Vietnam from 1968 - 1970 as a Sargent E5 with the 173rd Airborne Division. He is the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal. Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Army Commendation Medal and Parachute Badge. He moved to Willowemoc in 1975 where he was a talented carpenter and cabinetmaker. His craftsmanship can be found in many homes in Sullivan County and beyond. He was elected as a Councilman for the Town of Rockland in 2005, was appointed Deputy Supervisor in July 2009 and was elected Town Supervisor in late 2009. He served as Town Supervisor until his death. He was an active member of the Democratic Committee for the Town of Rockland, recently becoming the Acting Chairperson. He was a 27 year member of the Beaverkill Valley Fire Department serving most recently as 2nd Assistant Chief. When he became ill with cancer several friends stepped up to help him in his fight. Whether it was taking him to treatments, plowing his driveway, bringing in wood, cooking, cleaning, whatever was needed. Most importantly they gave their friendship and made it possible for Ed to be home. They are to be cherished. Ed was a hardworking, talented, good human being with a strong sense of service. He could always be counted on to be there when needed. He loved music, books, art, the outdoors and he loved his animals. "If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears however measured or far away" - Henry David Thoreau Ed will be cremated. A celebration of his life will be held in the Spring. Arrangements were under the direction of Colonial-Bryant Funeral Homes and Cremation Services.