1956 – 2026
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Edward William Beal announces his peaceful passing on October 15, 2026 at the age of 69, surrounded by loved ones at home.
Born in Sackville, New Brunswick, he was the son of the late Norman Edward Beal and Kathleen Eudavilla (Corbett) Beal. Growing up in Frosty Hollow, he developed a strong sense of community and duty—alongside a well-earned reputation as a lovable public nuisance who got into good-natured trouble with his close-knit group of friends. That mischievous spirit and knack for fun stayed with him through the years, famously carrying over into legendary ‘Rockport Tours’ and good times shared with his buddies whenever he visited home.
In 1974, Ed enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces, beginning a dedicated 23-year military career. His service spanned across three core fields: artillery, 427 Tactical Helicopter operations, and air defense. Over the course of his service, he proudly rose to the rank of Warrant Officer, completing postings with 2 RCHA (Petawawa), 427 Tactical Helicopter Squadron (Petawawa), the Air Defence Artillery School (Chatham), the Royal 22e Régiment Battalion (Valcartier), and 4 Air Defence Regiment (Moncton), as well as serving overseas on a United Nations mission with the Canadian Signal Squadron in Ismailia, Egypt. He was the recipient of the Canadian Decoration with 1st Clasp (CD1) and took immense pride in serving his country. Ed was also a proud, longtime member of the Royal Canadian Legion, Sackville Branch, and was honoured to receive his 50-year service pin last year.
Following his medical release and honourable retirement in 1997, Ed transitioned to civilian life, working as a Commissionaire. Away from work, Ed was a man of many interests who loved being active and outdoors. Whether he was out four-wheeling, hunting, fishing, scouring for additions to his coin collection, or taking in the excitement of local stock car races, he embraced life with a quick wit, sarcastic humour, a bit of good-natured troublemaking, and a remarkable zest for living.
Above all, Ed was a devoted family man. He is survived by his loving spouse of 44 years,
Crystal (Paulusse) Beal; his children, Kristy (Ryan) La Via and Michael (Jenna) Beal; his cherished grandchildren, Alanna and Ashley La Via; and his sisters, Charlene (John) Horwood, Marilyn Lirette, Carol (Tony) Wheaton, and Bethany Steeves. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Cathy Colwell.
Throughout his illness, Ed faced each day with incredible resilience. Crystal’s exceptional, unwavering care—along with the dedicated support of the Extra-Mural nurses and palliative care doctors—allowed Ed to remain at home surrounded by love.
The family extends a heartfelt thank you to all of Ed’s friends who visited, provided comfort and support, and shared many memories and laughs with him. A special expression of gratitude goes out to Brad Ball, whose steadfast friendship brought him so much comfort, visiting Ed at his bedside day after day.
Honouring his wishes, there will be no celebration of life or funeral. Cremation will take place and his family will cherish his memory privately. Arrangements have been entrusted to Cobb’s Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 330 Whitepine Rd, Riverview (506-869-2007).
