LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Edward Anthony Nigrelli Sr., born March 28, 1925, passed away on the evening of Feb. 17, 2016. 

He was the oldest son of Sam and Gussy Nigrelli of Westerly, Rhode Island.

Ed served his country proudly in World War II as a member of the United States Navy, service #205-3590.

He saw action in both the European and Asian theaters as a crew member on the USS Landsdale (DD426), USS Schmitt (DE-676) and USS Auman (APD-117), respectively.

He was awarded the American Area Ribbon, World War II Victory Medal, Pacific Asiatic Area Ribbon, European African Area Ribbon and the Good Conduct Medal.

After the war, Ed played guitar and sang country music at some of the honky-tonks in the New England area. He garnered the notice of RCA record executive Steve Sholes and went on to record 18 songs under the stage name of Eddie Marshall.

In 1952, he decided family was more important than the rigors of touring and he stepped away from music to be a husband and father and pursue a career in the carpentry trade.

In 1962 the family packed up the station wagon and, with less than $200 and the promise of one week’s work, moved to San Jose, Calif. He built his reputation as a carpenter, eventually becoming the senior business representative for the Carpenters’ Union, Local 316.

Ed retired in 1987, relocating to Clearlake Oaks, Calif. It is here he would spend the remainder of his days tinkering in his beloved workshop and telling the most wonderful tales of a lifetime filled with accomplishment.

Ed was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend; he will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his brother, Sam Nigrelli Jr. of Westerly, Rhode Island, his wife Joyce and their six children; 14 grandchildren; and 11 great grandchildren.

The world has lost, and Heaven has gained, a man of real honor and integrity. May Heaven revel in his intelligence, wit and song.

Graveside services, with military honors, will be held at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Road, Dixon on Friday, Feb. 26, beginning at 11 a.m.

Arrangements under the direction of Jones & Lewis Clear Lake Memorial Chapel FD 800, Lower Lake.

Please share your loving memories of Edward by signing his online guest book at www.jonesandlewis.com .