Edward R. Walson

Edward R. Walson, a native of Sandpoint, Idaho, passed away suddenly on May 15, 2010, at his home in Louisiana after a fight with cancer.

Ed’s wife Elaine, his family and his beloved dogs Heather and Angus were by his side.

Ed was born in Spokane, Wash., on June 11, 1946, to Ray and Nadine Walson. As a child, fishing on the barge and logging with his dad were weekend activities. At age 15, Ed was driving a truck for his dad. At age 17, Principal Sodoroff kicked him out of school for smoking. He told Ed at that time that he would never amount to anything. He was wrong.

The next day, Ed’s journey began when he joined the Navy, becoming a UDT specialist and diver. He did a tour of Vietnam and was assigned to three submarines in his 13 years with the Navy — the US Bream, the USS Haddock and the Sea Wolf. When Ed retired, he continued his career in the diving business, going all over the world as a diving consultant. He became a very successful businessman.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents and a brother-in-law.

He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Elaine; his daughter, Merrilyn (Dave) Scharnhorst; granddaughters, Mikayla and Breeann; son, Chris; grandsons, Parker and Dylan; sisters, Karen (Ed)Bangeman, Jan Roberts and Lorry (Marty) Johnson; and brothers, Brian and Bruce Walson.

A private memorial for his family and close friends is planned for the end of September. Cards and letters may be sent to Jann Roberts at 428 S. Florence, Sandpoint, ID 83864.

Family and friends are invited to sign Ed’s online guestbook at www.coffeltfuneral.com.