With sadness we share the news of the passing of the Rev. Canon John R. Edler, 90, on December 13, 2014 in Walnut Creek, CA.
Ordained to the priesthood 66 years ago, on December 1, 1948 in the Diocese of Long Island, he came to the Diocese of Newark in 1951, where he served as Rector of Trinity Church in Irvington (1951-1966); Vicar of St. Alban's, Oakland/Franklin Lakes (1966-1983); and as Canon to Trinity & St. Philip’s Cathedral (1981).
In addition, he served the Diocese of Newark as Secretary of Convention (1958 - 1979) and as a Deputy to five General Conventions (1964, 1967, 1970, 1973 and 1976). He also served The Episcopal Church as Secretary of the Program & Budget Committee.
The Rev. Canon Edler is survived by his wife, Jean; they celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary this past June. He is also survived by his daughter Barbara and her wife Judith; daughter Cynthia and her husband William; daughter Deborah and her husband Michael; son Jack and his husband David; a grandson and a step-granddaughter.
A private family service has been held, and at a future date a graveside service will take place in Riverhead, NY.
The Father John Edler Memorial Fund has been established to support the work of The Heart Failure Resource Center, whose care allowed him to remain comfortable at home in spite of his progressing congestive heart failure. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Heart Failure Resource Center, John Muir Health Foundation, 1400 Treat Blvd., Walnut Creek, CA, 94597.
Good and gracious God, the light of the faithful and shepherd of souls, you sent your servant John to be a priest in your Church to feed your sheep with your word and to guide them by his example; give us the grace to keep the faith he taught and to follow in his footsteps. We entrust him into your unfailing mystery of Love and Hope through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
