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Edward David Lafferty, 85, Altoona, passed away after a very brief illness Sunday at UPMC Altoona. He was born in Altoona, son of the late Adelia Bell (DeFrancisco) Lafferty and Bernard Franklin Lafferty. Ed was raised in a large loving family, with four brothers and two sisters.
Surviving are his loving wife of 61 years, Nancy (Spinazzola) Lafferty; two sisters, Patricia Wendt of Claysburg and Donna Wogan in Missouri; a son, David Edward Lafferty, and his wife, Julia (Feathers) Lafferty, and their daughters, Alexa Clare and Olivia Grace; a son, Anthony Wasson, and his wife, Rebecca (Anderson) Wasson, and their sons: Benjamin, Connor and Cole; as well as numerous nieces and nephews; and an abundance of wonderful friends.
After graduating from Altoona High School, Ed joined the Air Force -- fortunately during peacetime -- and had the opportunity to travel throughout Europe. He often reminisced about his travels and cherished those memories throughout his lifetime.
Shortly after his return, he met the love of his life, Nancy, and began to build his life and his family in Greenwood, where he lived right until his passing.
Ed was a hardworking man, beginning his career at Motor Freight Express and then joining Consolidated Freightways until his retirement at the early age of 59. He was a leader in his field, winning numerous driving exhibitions and serving for many years as the local union delegate, proudly supporting the workers at his terminal. He cherished time driving his 18-wheeler through the Altoona area, and became lifelong friends with his regular customers. As hard as he worked during the day, he never failed to miss a family dinner, where we all received the life lessons we carry with us to this day.
Fiercely loyal, he taught his two sons the value of hard work, discipline, love and compassion. Most importantly, he taught them how to be strong, supportive and loving men, and to be the best versions of themselves as both fathers and husbands.
Ed's life revolved around his family and his home. He also had many talents. His sense of humor kept us all on our toes. He loved to dance, travel, play golf, improve his home, tend to his yard, hunt and raise his dogs.
Ed volunteered numerous hours at the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry. He also became a bit of a chef, having watched and assisted mom in the kitchen for many years. His favorites were Italian meals with sauce, his famous pizzelles and raisin-filled cookies.
Per Ed's wishes, a private celebration will be held at the convenience of his immediate family.
Arrangements are by The Stevens Mortuary Inc., 1421 Eighth Ave., Altoona, PA 16602.
Memorial contributions in memory of Edward D. Lafferty can be made to St. Vincent DePaul Assumption Chapel Food Pantry, 1523 Adams Ave., Altoona, PA 16601, in care of Col. Don Belsey.
Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook page.