Edward Joseph Curilla, 87, of Kelleys Island, passed away Wednesday evening, June 29, 2011, in the Ohio Veterans Home, Sandusky, following a lengthy illness.

He was born on February 3, 1924 in Cleveland, OH and was a U.S. Navy veteran serving in both WWII and the Korean War.

Ed’s career was in the field of commercial art.  With much hard work and determination, he opened a very successful studio, Curilla & Associates, in Cleveland, Ohio.  During those twenty-five years, he was often remembered as an endearing mentor by many of his former employees.

In the 1960’s, Ed was fortunate enough to purchase a home on his “beloved” Kelleys Island.  In the coming years, he made a point of ensuring that his children and grandchildren would always be able to be a part of the island.

Upon his retirement, Ed moved to Kelleys Island.  He enjoyed being active in the community and also served a term on the village council.  He was a member of the Kelleys Island V.F.W. Post 9908. 

Ed loved planting a garden and landscaping his yard, to the delight of various onlookers.  He loved political banter with his son, and attending antique auctions with his daughter and grandchildren.  For many years, Ed looked forward to weekly poker games with his island friends.

Ed is survived by his daughter, Cynthia (Richard) Holmes , of Kelleys Island; son, Ronald Curilla, of Kelleys Island; grandchildren, Edward Terry, Michael Terry, Brian Terry, and Kevin Curilla; and a sister, Eleanore Chensoff, of Mayfield Village, OH; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Frances (Wacko) Curilla; and sisters, Florine Shemple and Adeline Lenehan.

Friends may call on Wednesday, July 6, 2011, from 12:30 P.M. until time of military services at 1:30 P.M. in the Ohio Veterans Home, auditorium, 3416 Columbus Ave., Sandusky.  Burial will take place at a later date on Kelleys Island.  Memorial contributions may be made to Stein Hospice Service, 1200 Sycamore Line, Sandusky, OH 44870.  Toft Funeral Home & Crematory, 2001 Columbus Ave., Sandusky is assisting the family with arrangements.  Condolences may be shared at www.toftfh.com