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FIREFIGHTER EDWARD J. STRINGER
3-3-5 December 22, 2010
Never Forgotten - Rest in Peace

EDWARD J. STRINGER MEMORIAL FUND

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Harris and the Chicago Fireman's Ende, Menzer, Walsh & Quinn Retirees', Widows' & Children's Assistance Fund today announced the establishment of memorial funds to benefit the families of Corey Ankum and Edward Stringer, two fallen firemen who perished last week in Chicago's worst firefighter tragedy in more than a decade.

"We are deeply saddened by the tragic events of Dec. 22, and our hearts go out to the Ankum and Stringer families during this difficult time," said Judy Rice, senior vice president of Community Affairs and Economic Development for Harris, and former board member of the Fireman's Annuity & Benefit Fund of Chicago.

"Chicago lost two courageous and selfless men last week. The local community has already shown incredible support for the families of the fallen, and for that, we are so grateful," saidTony Martin, President of the Chicago Fireman's Ende, Menzer, Walsh & Quinn Retirees', Widows' & Children's Assistance Fund, and Fund Secretary of the Fireman's Annuity & Benefit Fund of Chicago. "We hope that by establishing these memorial funds we can do more to help the families of these brave heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice and lost their lives in the line of duty."

Visitation and Funeral Arrangements 

FF Edward J Stringer Arrangements

Monday, December 27, 2010 (3A) (EMS 2)
Blake Lamb Funeral Home
4727 W. 103rd St.
Oak Lawn, IL
Visitation: 3:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Funeral:
Tuesday, December 28, 2010 (1A)(EMS 2)
10:00 a.m. (Tentative)
St. Rita of Cascia Chapel
7740 S. Western
Chicago, IL

Cemetery:
Beverly Cemetery
12000 S. Kedzie Ave
Blue Island, IL

Obituary

Edward J. Stringer Sr., born on April 26, 1963, was a 12-year veteran of the Chicago Fire Department. He served with Engine 63 and was a member of Local 2. Edward was a spontaneous man who brought life and zest to all those around him. A very considerate, neighborly man, he would lend a helping hand in any needed situation. His crude sense of humor and sarcastic ways will be missed by his family, friends, and "brothers." He truly knew how to brighten one's day with a hysterical gesture or joke or simply by his captivating and contagious smile.

Edward, a very intelligent individual, graduated from Curie High School in Chicago. In 1981, he became a proud father to his son, Edward J. Stringer Jr. At a very young age, he endeavored to provide with everything he had, working two jobs and taking college courses at Daley Community College in Chicago. His encyclopedic knowledge of the city's features and geography came into play when he worked many years as a delivery man throughout the city. Later, in 1988, it helped him when he himself "delivered" his daughter, Jennifer M. Stringer, in a Bridgeport, Illinois apartment. Always an enthusiastic, hardworking family man, his children will hold dear the memory of their father as an unsurpassed role model and mentor.

In 1998, Edward's passion showed through when he joined the Chicago Fire Department. Anyone who knew him could tell his pride to be a part of the "brotherhood." He actively participated in many fire department benefits and also worked raising money to send child fire victims to burn camp.

Throughout the years, Edward enjoyed cooking, a good cocktail, rooting for the Chicago White Sox, listening to rock and blues, walks with his dog, Roscoe, and spending time and countless laughs with his friends, family, and coworkers. He was an avid motorcycle rider who loved to travel, spend time outdoors at his campsite-fondly known as "the Happy Place"-and recently cherished any free time with his confidante, Joan Husemann-Middendorf.

The loss of such a brave firefighter, a beloved son, an incredible father, a cherished friend, a fine man, will never be adequately measured or put into words. He always told me, "Don't call me a hero. I'm just a regular guy, doing my job." But in the hearts of his survivors, a "hero" he will always be.

   
The Ende, Menzer, Walsh & Quinn Retirees', Widows' and Children's Assistance Fun is mission is to provide financial assistance to the neediest widows and children of members of the Chicago Fire Department. The EMWQ Retirees Widows and Children’s Assistance Fund was granted tax exempt charitable status under IRS Code Section 501
(c)(3) on April 23, 2007. The tax exempt status allows all contributions to be used as a tax deduction for the donor. All program distributions made from the Fund are nontaxable to the recipient.


Donation acknowledgement forms will be generated for all contributions of $250 or more in accordance with the Internal Revenue Service guidelines. Individuals needing tax receipts will be required to use a check or donate online.