With his wife by his side, Edward Karkut, 63, of Len Ann Drive, Bessemer, passed away the evening of August 15, 2011 at St. Elizabeth's Hospital, Boardman, Ohio. Ed had fought a very courageous battle against congestive heart failure.

Born in Yonkers, New York on November 8, 1947, he was the only child of the late Edward and Wanda Pryba Karkut.

He married the love of his life, Mary Jo Filipovich, on November 22, 1973. She survives.

He was a member of Saint Paul the Apostle Church in New Middletown, Ohio. He had been a member of Christ the King Parish choir for many years.

Ed graduated from Saunders High School and Westchester Community College with an associate degree in electronics.

He had worked at Vital Statistics in New Castle until his retirement in 2005.

For many years he was a member of the Monday night golf league at Mohawk Trails. Ed loved spending time at the beach, attending auctions and estate sales, traveling, and going to casinos. His best times were spent with his family by his side. He was a wonderful man with an excellent sense of humor.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his mother-in-law, Margaret Filipovich, a daughter, Karen (James) Cox of Owings Mills, Maryland, his son, Rick, of Central City, Colorado, a sister-in-law, Christine Filipovich, three nephews and their families, and a niece. He is also leaving behind his very special granddaughter, Riley Helene Cox, the apple of his eye.

In addition to his parents, Ed was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Henry Filipovich, his step-father, Stephen Lutter, and his brother-in-law, Dennis Filipovich.

At his request there will be no calling hours.

A Memorial Mass to celebrate Ed's life will be held Saturday, August 27, 2011 at 10:30 AM at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 10143 Main Street, New Middletown, Ohio. The family will receive friends at church beginning at 9:30 A.M..

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ed's name to St. Jude's Children's Hospital or a charity of choice.