Edward J. Tighe, age 94, a long-time resident of Wilmington, passed away surrounded by his loving family on January 8, 2021.
Edward was born in Bridgewater, Massachusetts, the son of William and Agnes (Anderson) Tighe. Known as “Mickey” to family and close friends, he was raised in Ashland and graduated from Ashland High School. He loved all sports, especially baseball and football, and went on to play in a semi-pro football league.
Following graduation, Edward joined the United States Army Air Force, proudly serving our country in post-war years, stationed in Japan.
Upon his return home, he enrolled at the Wentworth Institute in Boston. Edward became a carpenter and worked on a number of large commercial projects throughout the region. He was known for his attention to detail and workmanship.
In 1959 Edward married the love of his life Margaret Theresa Mullane; the couple settled in Wilmington the following year, where they raised two daughters. He was a regular parishioner at St. Thomas of Villanova Church for many years and served as an usher.
In addition, he was a member of the Knights of Columbus Fr. Croke Council in Wilmington, volunteering for many fundraisers, never missing the annual Tootsie roll drive to help those with intellectual disabilities. He also participated in the Knights’ bowling league and cribbage tournaments.
An avid gardener, he took pride in his expansive vegetable garden and shared his tomato crop with everyone. He enjoyed Boston sports and looked forward to watching games alongside his family. In retirement, he took on custom carpentry projects, designing cabinetry and restoring a multi-story home in Falmouth. Cape Cod held a special place in his heart and was a favorite vacation spot. He also counted trips to Florida and Saratoga among his highlights.
Above all, he cherished his family and attended his grandchildren’s games and events whenever he could. He was their biggest fan, proud of every accomplishment, large and small.
Edward was the beloved husband of the late Margaret (Mullane) Tighe, devoted father of Judith DePaolo & her husband Joseph and Ellen Ventola & her husband Craig all of Groveland, loving “Pa” of Daniel DePaolo, Ryan DePaolo, Kyle Ventola and Carsen Ventola, dear brother of the late William Tighe and Dorothy Holmes.
Funeral Services for Edward are private.
Memorial donations in Edward’s name may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 4550 Montgomery Ave., Suite 1100N, Bethesda, MD 20814.
Arrangements under the direction of Nichols Funeral Home, Inc., Wilmington.
Dear Ellen,
I’m so sorry to hear of your father’s death. I hope you and your family find some comfort in your memories of good times in the difficult days to come.
Your friend,
Emily
Eddie was a great guy…got to know Ed playing cribbage down the council had some laughs. He was an icon. Will be missed
Dear Ellen,
I’m so sorry for the passing of your dad. After reading your dad’s obituary- he had a great and wonderful life. He was so blessed to have such a loving and wonderful family.
God bless,
Tricia
Hi Ellen,
My condolence to you, your family and your dad’s friends. He was part of the greatest generation and he did his part well.
Omar