Indian River Mourns the Passing of Fire Company Member – Edward “Ed” R. Riordan, Sr. (updated)

The Indian River Volunteer Fire Company is saddened to announce the passing of Edward “Ed” R. Riordan, Sr. 

Ed was an Active Member, Secretary, Assistant Secretary, and DVFA Delegate as well as a firefighter of the fire company for more than 27 years.  Ed was also affiliated with the Mid Sussex Rescue Squad and awarded a Life Membership for his tenured service which tallied more than 46 years.

Indian River wishes to offer its condolences and deepest gratitude to the families and loved ones of Ed.

Information regarding Ed’s tenure in the Delaware Fire Service, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company and the Mid Sussex Rescue Squad will be published upon availability.

We wish to offer the Riordan Family as well as all extended family and friends our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Ed’s membership profile may be viewed at https://irvfc.com/profile.cfm?id=82

Obituary for Edward R. Riordan, Sr. (published by Watson Funeral Home)

Edward R. Riordan, 82, of Millsboro, DE, passed away on April 4, 2025. Born on July 23, 1942, in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of the late Thomas Joseph Riordan and Alva Riordan.

Edward attended Scarlett O’Hara High School in Philadelphia and went on to live a life defined by hard work, service, and quiet generosity. He began his working years at the Philadelphia Airport, loading and cleaning airplanes, before holding positions at Brighton Best Nut & Bolt Company and John T. Rogers Bulkheading. He then dedicated 25 years to Townsends, followed by 17 more as a driver for DART before finally retiring.

Never one to sit still for long, Ed started his own grass-cutting business and continued to find ways to give back to those around him. He drove for the Boys & Girls Club and served his community as a member of the Mid-Sussex Rescue Squad and the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company. He was also an active member of the Long Neck United Methodist Church Men’s Group.

Those who knew Ed would tell you he was as selfless and humble as they come—always thinking of others first, even if you had to look past a tough exterior to see it. He was thoughtful, dependable, and yes, proudly stubborn.

He had a love for giving gifts, a knack for making others smile, and a playful side that came to life when he danced and sang along to “Shout” by the Isley Brothers. He also had a deep love for motorcycles and was a devout Eagles fan through and through—win or lose.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Joseph Riordan and Alva Riordan, and by his wife, Chere Riordan.

He is survived by his children: Edward Jr. (Holly), and Monica; his grandchildren: Kaitlynne Riordan, Christyn Riordan, Colyn Riordan, and Izabella LaTorre; and nine great-grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by his siblings: Alva Nolan-Kleinhans and Michael Riordan.

Services for Mr. Riordan will be held at Watson Funeral Home & Crematorium on Friday, April 18th, 2025, at 11:00 AM, where friends may call beginning at 10:00AM. Interment will be private.