John Merritt Edson of Clearwater, Florida passed away on April 2, 2023. He was 89. 

John was born on January 15, 1934 in Neosho, Missouri to parents Gordon Edson and Mary Smith.

He was a mechanical engineer and served in the US Navy for eight years. In retirement he enjoyed woodworking. 

Survivors include his loving wife of 42 years, Jeanette Edson (Wilkes); two step-daughters, Janet Fichtner, and Lynn (Mike) Skinner; two grandsons, Jake Fichtner, and Christopher (Chrissy) Cordone; and two great grandsons, Colin Cordone and Tyler Cordone. 

He was a gentleman who will be remembered for his patience and kind heart. John will be greatly missed by those whose lives he touched.