Edward “Ed” John Sandini

Edward “Ed” John Sandini

1925-2023

Edward John Sandini, Lt. Col. USAF Ret., age 98, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on September 17, 2023.  He was born on June 6, 1925, in Philadelphia, PA and was the only son of Nicholas and Irene Elsie Simon Sandini.

After Ed graduated from High School in January 1943, he joined the Army Air Corps to proudly serve his country.  He was a B-17 pilot and led a crew of nine men in over 23 successful missions during WWII.  Afterwards, he attended Penn State University where he received his Mechanical Engineering degree.  He continued to serve his country full-time in the United States Air Force participating in the Korean Conflict and Vietnam war.  After serving 28 years he retired and began his second career working for the State of Oklahoma Employment Service.  

Although Ed was a true Penn Stater, he became an avid University of Oklahoma fan.  He was a passionate sports follower, rain or shine he didn’t miss a football game. In his free time, he loved to read, garden, and spend time with his family.

He is survived by his wife Karen G. Sandini, their combined children, and spouses; John & Erin Sandini, Charles & Danay Sandini, Kristin Sandini Cox & Greg Lebanowski, Douglas & Wendy Howell, as well as his grandchildren; Justin & Michelle Elkins, Chad Cox, Stephen & Terece Sandini, Derek & Kelly Cox, Dylan Cox, Nicholas & Hannah Sandini, Jordan Sandini, Lauren Howell, Kirk & Megan Balcom and Malorie Lebanowski. He was also blessed with 5 great-grandchildren Emma & Elijah Sandini, Greyson Elkins, MacKenzie & Kolette Balcom.

He is preceded in death by his first wife Barbara A. Sandini, daughter Katharine L. Elkins and grandson Jacob S. Sandini.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, Sept 21st from 4:00pm – 6:00pm at Matthews Funeral Home, and Cremation Service, 601 S. Kelly Ave, Edmond, OK 73003.  A celebration of Ed’s life will occur Friday, September 22nd, at 10:00am at First United Method Church of Edmond, 305 E. Hurd Street, Edmond, OK 73034.  Graveside ceremony will begin at 2:00pm at the Highland Cemetery, 2201 NW Fort Sill Blvd, Lawton, OK 73507.

Ed lived a life full of adventure, passion, and purpose. He was a source of strength, wisdom, and guidance to all who knew him. His kindness, generosity, and infectious smile will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider donating to The Salvation Army or their favorite charity in Ed’s name.

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