SANFORD — Edward B. Rodrigue, Sr., 80, of Sanford, died on Friday, July 13 at the Maine Veterans Home in Scarborough where he had enjoyed living for nearly three years.

He was born in Skowhegan on May 31, 1938 to Helon and Mary Ann (Patrick) Rodrigue. He enlisted in the United States Air Force and proudly served for 20 years, traveling all over the world before retiring to Florida. While he was stationed in Nome, Alaska he met and married Mary Wheeler, a member of the Inupiaq Tribe. Together they shared 52 years of marriage until her death in 2015. He loved animals and particularly enjoyed of his daughter’s dogs, Justice and Pixie. He will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by his family and friends.

Edward was predeceased by his wife, Mary Rodrigue who he dearly missed, by two infant sons, David John and Jason Aaron and by his good friend and daughter’s fiancé David W, Leavitt II.

Surviving are four children, Marielle Rodrigue, Edward Rodrigue, Jr., Gary Rodrigue and Tracy Zickefoose, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren and his special friend at the veteran’s home, Mrs. Brady and her dog Frankie.

A graveside service with military honors will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday, July 20 at the Southern Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery located on Stanley Road in Springvale.

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider sending a memorial contribution in Edward’s name to the charity of their choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Black Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, Sanford-Springvale.

To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit www.blackfuneralhomes.com.