Love is Strong. Love Lives On.

Remembering

Edward J. Adlard

Healthy Visions Board President 2018-2023
August 20, 1951 – September 25, 2023

Beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Edward J. Adlard, of Montgomery, passed away on September 25, 2023 at the age of 72. He leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Born August 20, 1951 in Piqua, Ohio, Ed graduated from Purdue University with a degree in mechanical engineering and earned an MBA from Xavier University. His career as an IT consultant was nothing short of remarkable. It granted him the opportunity to traverse the globe, where he not only excelled professionally but also embraced diverse cultures and made friends wherever he was. He was a speaker at national conferences and was published in a technical journal.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Ed had an active and vibrant life. He was a skilled golfer, a passion that began during his high school days when he played on the golf team. He enjoyed being on the water, whether it was boating or waterskiing. In the winter, he would eagerly hit the slopes, indulging in his love for snow skiing.

However, the heart of Ed’s life was his family. He cherished every moment spent with his loved ones and treasured family gatherings above all else. Ed and his family traveled the world together, and he always said “yes” to adventure be it paragliding, snorkeling, whitewater rafting, and even skydiving to celebrate his 60th birthday!

His most cherished place of all was the family lake house, a place where countless memories were made. It was here that Ed found solace, tranquility, and endless joy. The lake house became a symbol of his love for his family and his deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

His generous spirit shone brightly as he dedicated his time and energy to causes close to his heart: he was a reader for Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, an usher at Music Hall, and mentored a high school student. He was a devout Catholic and attended Mass daily. In his final act of service, he was an organ donor.

Ed will be remembered for his love of travel and food, enthusiasm for life, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Carole Adlard; children: Tara (Mark), Chase, Brett (Kyndell), and Eric (Erica); and grandchildren, Reef and Lake.

My lifelong friendship with Ed Adlard began in the 1st grade at St. Mary’s grade school in Piqua. Ed had the distinction of alphabetically being the first in our class. So, for seating and whenever we had to form lines or receive grades and even diplomas, Ed was first. In 1961, when we were in 5th grade it was time for the beginning band program. My twin brother Joe and I chose to take up the drums along with another mutual friend, Bill Hayes.

Ed chose to play the trumpet. At that time, we were all taking music lessons with our band teacher Mr. Neville. After a few months we decided to form our own band as we were now about 6 month experienced musicians. We had 3 drummers a trombone player and 2 trumpet players.Ed Adlard was our lead trumpet player and we played simple songs from our band books and whatever we could figure out for pop songs. We aptly called the group the Drumsville Band.

Each of us bought a white sweatshirt. We drew a red circle on it with a marker and the name Drumsville Band. I recall the day in 6th grade when we were invited to perform for the class in our school room. The 6 of us were set up in the front of the room and for about 15 minutes we were rock stars. While the band didn’t last long, for me now as professional musician it was my first band.

It was 1961 or 62 mind you and I can’t be sure but I think we were happening before the British Invasion. When we got to high school Ed did not continue his musical endeavors and I remember Bill Hayes and I tried to talk him into staying with us in the band. But it wasn’t in the cards for Ed. However, we remained close friends in high school and very often on the weekends the Adlard house is where several of us gathered. Ed had a pool table, and for most of us that was our first experience at becoming pool sharks and Ed was our mentor.

Ed’s family had cottage at Indian Lake. One of those high school summers Ed had a party at the lake house and invited many of us in the class, both boys and girls. He had a motorboat and skiing equipment and he was quite skilled at driving that boat. We were all surely impressed. That day Ed gave most of us our first water skiing opportunity. I was scared to death but Ed assured me it would be fine and I gave it a try.

I stayed up for about 20 seconds before falling into the water. Ed circled back with the boat and retrieved me with a good laugh and I stayed in the boat as others took their turns. That would be the FIRST and LAST time I ever water skied. On Friday nights after football and basketball games Ed was part of a group of us that always ended up at Diana’s Pizza or Casano’s Pizza. We had such great times together and created many lifetime memories during those formative years.

After High School Ed would go on to Purdue and become an engineer. I went to the University of Cincinnati and became a musician and teacher. Ed of course moved to Cincinnati and I moved to Columbus. But we stayed in touch throughout all these years and would always enjoy catching up at reunions. Ed would occasionally come to Columbus to visit his daughter who lived there at the time. He would always find the time to come and see my band where we played every Thursday night at the 94th Aero Squadron. I so appreciated our friendship and we always enjoyed reliving our memories together.

My friendship with Ed Adlard will always be a special one for me as he was the man of FIRSTS for me. He was first alphabetically in our class. He was the first lead trumpet player in my first band. He gave me my first opportunity to play pool. He gave me my first boat ride and my first and only experience water skiing. I treasure my friendship with Ed. He was a true gentleman and one of the finest men I have ever known. Till we meet again my dear Friend.

-Rick

If Dad’s were a product Mr. Adlard would’ve been bought and sold everywhere. He was consistent, reliable and a product that you knew what you were going to get when you got it. He was simple and inspiring, humble and good humored… he was quick to laugh and took pleasure in nothing more than his four children and I can only imagine his grandchildren as well. If you want evidence of Ed’s influence in this world you need look no further than the home he provided for his family. The basement, as we called it, was a safe space with all the bells and whistles for three boys and yes, Tara, to romp around in and enjoy.

We had plenty of autonomy back then but had family dinners as well. Dinners where Ed would steer the ship and keep things light and airy for guests. Something that as a moody teenager I didn’t know to appreciate, but now I see as only wisdom. Later in life I got to appreciate Ed’s influence on the boys in a different way. We went on a ski trip to Colorado. I got up on skis for one day on that trip but Mr. Adlard was genuine and kind to me the whole time.

He provided lodging and even returned my skiing gear for me. Suffice to say I felt guilty for not participating more in the trip. But on the last day, getting tacos and, if I recall, a few beers, Ed treated me as he did at those family dinners. Light and with respect. Ed was a role model.

One whose influence we can only begin to predict but one that was seeded in that house, humor and good times. Everyone who spent a night there knew his generosity and the care he took to provide for his family. Whether it is his four wonderful children, the two and then three happiest dogs on the planet or the rotating cast of characters throughout, Mr. and Mrs. Adlard knew only kindness and that has truly been their gift to all of us.

We gather here today to remember and celebrate the life of a remarkable man, my dad, Ed Adlard. As we come together in this moment of reflection, it is important that we honor his memory by focusing on the virtues and qualities that made him such a beloved and respected person. Dad was a devout Catholic, whose faith was the cornerstone of his life. When well, he attended Mass daily. He lived a life of kindness and patience. He demonstrated a genuine openness to people from all walks of life, recognizing the inherent worth and dignity in every individual, regardless of their background or beliefs.

Family held a special place in dad’s heart. He understood the importance of family bonds and his devotion to his loved ones was unwavering. His presence provided a source of support for all who were fortunate enough to know him. Dad valued the simple beauty of quiet reflection, finding solace in the world around him. He had a deep appreciation for all its wonders. His passion for travel, adventure, and exploration allowed him to embrace the richness of our world, and he shared that enthusiasm with his family.

In addition, dad was a pillar of trustworthiness. His integrity and reliability were second to none, and he was always there for anyone who needed his help, often going above and beyond. There is pain and sadness in his loss, but I take comfort in the knowledge that dad’s legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we remember Ed, my dad, let us carry forward the lessons he taught us through his life. Let us strive to embody the virtues of kindness, openness, adventure, devotion, and trustworthiness that were so integral to his character. In doing so, we honor his memory and keep his spirit alive.

Thank you for joining us in celebrating the life of my dad, Ed Adlard.

I will always have a special place in my heart for my Cousin Ed. Being so close in age and going to grade and high school together, my sister Joanie and i were always buddies with Ed, especially at the lake at family gatherings. So many great memories with Uncle Joe, Aunt Marcy, Pat, Sue, and Ed . he had such a kind heart always.

– Kandy Hirt Cianciolo