Edward L. "Ed" Basiaga, age 78, of Whiting, IN passed away shortly after a late-term colon cancer diagnosis on Friday, August 7, 2020 at the home of his son, Michael Basiaga, in Boynton Beach, FL. Ed was predeceased by his wife and best friend, Geraldine, and his sister, Frances. He will be forever loved and remembered by his sons, Larry (Ellen), Nick (Brittany), and Mike (Katherine) Basiaga; grandfather of Jackson and Nathaniel; proud uncle of his nieces and nephews; great friend of his neighbors/poker buddies, Mary, Harry, Maryann, Kurt, and Clancy; friend of all in his community in Whiting and within Florida, as well as extended friends and servicemen throughout the U.S.

Ed Basiaga was born on Saturday, April 11, 1942 in East Chicago, Indiana to Longin and Sophie Basiaga. A graduate of Washington High School and St. Joseph's College, Ed enlisted and honorably served on active duty as an Airman First Class in the United States Air Force. His professional career began soon after, and he advanced from a draftsman to computer programming, working with various companies including IBM, AT&T, Pitney Bowes, Prudential, and on the Y2K project.

Working in Chicago, Ed met his wife and best friend, Geri, at their local bus stop as they both were commuting to work downtown. They enjoyed 50 years of marriage watching their children and grandchildren grow up before her passing in 2017. Dedicated to family, Ed and Geri were very active in Boy Scouts and throughout their sons' education. Ed was also a member of the American Legion for 34 years and a 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. A devout Catholic, he was a member of Sacred Heart and St. John the Baptist Catholic Churches in Whiting.

Ed was a consummate gentleman and the cornerstone of the Basiaga family. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, his family was his life, and his everlasting love and guidance carries on in them. Among his favorite quotes, he always reminded us of the Boy Scouts' motto to "Be Prepared," and in keeping with his computer background, "To err is human, but to really foul things up requires a computer!"

An outdoors man, Ed loved fishing and taking his family on their annual camping trip to Potato Creek State Park. He also enjoyed the beach and spent many summer weekends in Michigan City, Indiana with his family and extended family. He especially enjoyed barbecues and one of his many favorites were hot dogs on the grill.

An angel to us all, Ed will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. A private service was held with family by the Very Reverend Canon Thomas J. Skindeleski, but to all who wish to celebrate his life, please feel free to reach out to his sons. Future gatherings to celebrate Ed's life will be forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Ed's name, supporting the protection and enjoyment of the world's ocean, waves, and beaches, can be made to the Surfrider Foundation ( https://www.surfrider.org/mission ) and would be greatly appreciated.