HOLYOKE:  Edward A. Skwirz, 90, of Holyoke, MA died peacefully in his home on November 2, 2017.  Edward was born on February 1, 1927 in Holyoke, MA, son of the late Albert Skwirz and Anna (Boczon) Skwirz. Edward was a devoted husband and father. He dedicated his life to serving God, his family, and his country. Being a devout Catholic, he faithfully attended weekly Mass and raised his loving family with the utmost of Christian values. Edward was a World War II veteran, as a Navy Seabee stationed in Attu, Alaska. Proudly, he continued to serve and protect others as a fire fighter for the City of Holyoke for 37 years. Spending time with his children and grandchildren, going golfing, having family picnics, and going on family vacations to the beach were his favorite pastimes. The times he held most dear were with his wife Regina, raising their children, watching TV, cruising the Caribbean, and enjoying casino excursions with the Golden Agers. As a member of the Holyoke Lodge of Elks, he liked playing cards along with doing community service. Edward was a Communicant of Mater Dolorosa Parish and St. Jerome Parish in Holyoke, MA. He loved the Lord and his family with his entire heart and soul. Edward joins his beloved wife, Regina J. Skwirz in The Lord’s Kingdom, after death separated them 12 weeks ago. They were married on September 26, 1953 and were blessed with 64 years of happiness. He leaves his four dearest children, George E. Skwirz and his wife Jean of Meriden, CT, Patricia A. Dionne and her husband, Gary of Feeding Hills, MA, Edward A. Skwirz, Jr. of Holyoke, MA, and Mary Walczak and her husband, John of West Springfield, MA. Edward also leaves his treasured grandchildren: Andrea, Allison, Ashley, Alex, Rachel, Joseph, and Christopher, and three cherished great-grandchildren: Amelie, Clayton, and Alara. He was predeceased by his siblings Stasia, Stella, and John. The Funeral will be held on Wednesday, November 8, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. from the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street following by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. in St. Patrick Chapel of St. Jerome Church, 169 Hampden Street, both in Holyoke. Burial will follow in Mater Dolorosa Cemetery, South Hadley.  Calling hours will be held prior to the funeral from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Edward’s memory to the American Diabetes Association 2451 Crystal Drive, Suite 900 Arlington, VA , by phone 1(800) DIABETES or on-line at http://www.diabetes.org/.