Harry William Edwards Jr.

Harry W. Edwards, Jr., 87, a dedicated husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great grandfather, brother-in-law, and friend passed away in his sleep at Warren Barr Buffalo Grove, IL on August 5, 2024. He was born to Harry and Agnes Edwards in McKees Rocks, PA on December 13, 1936. 

Throughout his career, Harry was a Mechanical Engineer and developed patents in the field of Plumbing. 

Harry met Isabel (Bitsy) in Livorno, Italy where he served in the Army from October 15, 1956 to September 29, 1959. When his father had suddenly took ill, Harry, a SP4 E-4, was honorably discharged. Harry was an avid marksman and took great pride being a sharpshooter.

Harry and Bitsy were known by their friends as “The Love Birds”. They were married on April 30, 1960 and soon after in 1961, they welcomed their first child, Donna. A few years later, 1964, they welcomed their second child, David.

Through the years, Harry enjoyed fishing, fixing cars, traveling, being involved with the Dystonia Foundation, volunteering as a greeter and food pantry assistant – as well as being a member - of the Willow Creek Church, going out to dinner, and spending time with his family and friends.

He loved taking annual trips to Colorado to visit and hike with his daughter, Donna and her family. Time spent with his brother-in-law, Jim Galvin, sister-in-law, Pam, and their family, whether in California or any other state, were cherished as well.

Harry and Bitsy called Tower Lakes home for over 50 years. They loved long walks down by the lake, fishing, and swimming. While home in Illinois, Harry and Bitsy spent time sharing many laughs and meals together with their son, David, and his family.

His lead foot, combined with his auto repair skills, caused him to have a love affair with cars. His most treasured car was his German Karmann Ghia. Going back to his childhood, he also loved fishing in Canada with his dad and passed down his skills to his children and grandchildren.

 Harry is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Isabel (Bitsy) Galvin Edwards; children, Donna (George) Ott and David (Carole Kopke) Edwards; grandchildren, Brady (Jane) Ott, Lindsey (Patrick “Ted”) Barnett and Jack Edwards; great grandchildren, Wyatt and Georgia Ott and Piper Barnett.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Agnes Edwards.

 A Memorial Visitation for Harry will be held from 2:30 PM until the time of service at 3:30 PM on Sunday, August 11, 2024 at Warren Barr Buffalo Grove, IL 60089.

Harry lost his battle against Frontotemporal Dementia. His family wishes to extend a special thanks to the dedicated staff of Sunrise of Barrington, JourneyCare, Chapters of Barrington, Good Shepherd Hospital, Suncrest Hospice, and Warren Barr Buffalo Grove.