Edwin Carl Stickles

SCHUYLER LAKE – Edwin Carl Stickles, age 80, of State Highway 28, passed peacefully on Tuesday February 3, 2026 in Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown. He had the comfort of his loving family by his side at the time of his passing.

Eddie was born on May 17, 1945 in Cooperstown, a son to the late Robert E. and Minerva Simonds Stickles. He was raised in Burlington Flats and educated at Edmeston High School. After high school he dedicated many years to the Otsego County Highway Department as a machine operator and with his hard work ethic and dependability he was later promoted to supervisor.

Eddie shared a remarkable life with his wife, Peggy Stickles. He met the love of his life, on February 11, 1967, and married 3 months later on June 3rd, 1967.   Their life together was a true love story that lasted nearly 59 years and was filled with love, laughter, loyalty, and unwavering devotion. Their story began when Peggy literally flipped  over him—an event Peggy always delighted in retelling. Their bond was the kind of true love not often found today, built on deep dedication, shared humor, and a lifetime of laughter.

Eddie dedicated 36 years of service to the Otsego County Highway Department, where he was known for his strong work ethic and reliability. A man who truly appreciated the outdoors and had a love of hunting.  Eddie had an impressive ability to identify nearly any tree—a talent that never failed to impress and often sparked conversation.

Service to his community was an important part of Eddie's life. He was a member of the Schuyler Lake Fire Department for over 40 years and was honored as an honorary member in recognition of his decades of commitment and service.

Eddie was well known for his sense of humor and his unforgettable one-liners. His quick wit, warm smile, and ability to lighten any moment will be remembered by all who knew him.

Besides his wife Peggy, are his two daughters; Tammy Behr and her husband Kevin of Cherry Valley, Jill Ludemann and her husband William of Sauquoit, his  grandchildren; Tyler Bianchine, Ryan Ludemann, Dakota Behr and his wife Annie, great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Besides his parents he was preceded in death by his brother Robert (Sonny) Stickles.

The family will be present in the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witness 7396 State Highway 28, Schuyler Lake, to receive relatives and friends on Saturday February 7th from 2:00 to 3:30pm. A funeral service to follow at 3:30pm. Burial to take place later this spring at the Schuyler Lake Cemetery.  Donations can be sent to Schuyler Lake Fire Department or the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses.

Funeral arrangements are with J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home Inc. 40 West James Street Richfield Springs.