Edward J Szczepanski Jr. passed away peacefully on February 11, 2026, at the age of 94.

Born on April 11, 1931, in Buffalo, New York, Ed was a lifelong Western New Yorker. He lived in Buffalo and its surrounding communities - West Seneca, New York, Orchard Park, New York, and East Aurora, New York - building a life rooted in family, hard work, and quiet accomplishment.

In 1961, he married Jeanette, the love of his life and his steadfast partner of more than six decades. Together they raised four children: Kenneth (Sheila) Szczepanski, David (Carol) Szczepanski, Stephen (Melissa) Szczepanski, and Cheryl (Jack) Whitt. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Samuel and Sarah; Andrew and Matthew; and Kyle and Jackson, whose ages range from 14 to 24. Nothing pleased him more than having his family gathered together.

Ed served two years in the United States Army during the Korean War, earning the rank of Sergeant. This was an achievement he was deeply proud of, as he was promoted in half the usual time. That sense of duty, humility, and quiet strength remained with him throughout his life.

After his military service, Ed built a respected career as an electrical engineer at Moog, Inc.. Though he rarely spoke of his professional accomplishments, he was instrumental in numerous innovative projects that led to company patents. He was often personally called upon by Bill Moog for his expertise - a reflection of both his remarkable skill and the trust he inspired. Even after his retirement, Ed served as a consultant to Moog for unique and special projects. True to his nature, he remained humble about it all.

From childhood on, Ed loved building things. Electronics were not just his profession, they were his lifelong passion. He was an avid radio-controlled airplane hobbyist and even helped develop a motor for RC aircraft in the early 1990s. Friends frequently sought him out for help with electronics, knowing he would patiently and thoughtfully solve even the most puzzling problem.

He loved watching programs on the History Channel, especially those exploring history and the possibility of life beyond our planet. His curiosity never faded. He could talk for hours about computers, circuitry, and the many devices he had built over the years. He had a calming presence; one that was steady, thoughtful, and reassuring, and that made people feel at ease.

Ed also had a soft spot for his children's dogs. He was happiest when they came over to visit and he could simply sit quietly with them in the den, content in their company.

Friends and family may call on Thursday, February 19, from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at F.E. Brown Sons Funeral Home, 6575 E. Quaker Street, Orchard Park, NY 14127. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 20, at Immaculate Conception Parish, 520 Oakwood Avenue, East Aurora, NY 14052.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ed's memory to support Second Start Rescue, a nonprofit dog rescue co-founded by his daughter. Donations may be made at https://givebutter.com/second-start-rescue (please opt out of covering platform fees and tips).

Ed's life was marked by steady dedication, deep intelligence, humility, and love. We will carry his steady strength with us always, and Dad's quiet wisdom will continue to guide us.