SUTTON

Edward J. DeHaan, 82, beloved husband, father and local business owner, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. At the time of his passing Ed was surrounded by the supportive love of his family.

Ed was born in Whitinsville and raised in Sutton, the son of John and Grace (Foppema) DeHaan. He attended Whitinsville Christian School, was a 1960 graduate of Sutton High School and studied at Dean Junior College. During this time, Ed worked as a service mechanic at his father's new car dealership Indian Pontiac, in Whitinsville. In 1962, Ed enlisted into the U.S. Army where he honorably served his country. Upon his return home, Ed resumed working in the sales and service departments of Indian Pontiac, alongside his father and brother, Ken. During this time, Ed would also marry his high school sweetheart, Genevieve (née Vaundell).

After his father's decision to retire in 1973, Ed and his brother dissolved Indian Pontiac and reopened on the same property as DeHaan Motors, Inc. Together, they offered honest quality automotive sales and service to hundreds of customers in the Blackstone Valley over the next thirty years. Upon his retirement, Ed would remain active in the automotive business, working first with Rick's Tire and Auto Sales in No. Smithfield, RI, then Meineke Car Care of Shrewsbury, and Bump 'n Touch, Inc. where he always maintained his reputation for honesty and integrity. He enjoyed most working at the Mendon Greenhouse.

When not working, Ed looked forward to a round of golf with his childhood friend Craig Wallace. He enjoyed visiting the Sutton, Douglas and Northbridge Senior Centers where a challenge of Pitch or Cribbage was always welcomed. He missed few opportunities to share Army stories - most especially his adventures in Turkey. In earlier years Ed enjoyed being outside while deer hunting and together with Ginny, enjoyed camping adventures and vacations with their children. Hardly a weekend would pass without breakfast plans with his beloved family.

In addition to his devoted wife, Ginny, Ed is survived by their two children, Lisa M. DeHaan and Michael E. DeHaan, both who reside in Sutton; two nephews, Brian and Craig DeHaan; two nieces, Jody Myers-Fierz and Jamie Blair; a brother-in-law, David (wife Becky) Vaundell and a sister-in-law, Susan DeHaan. Ed was preceded in death by his brother, Ken DeHaan and a sister-in-law, Judy Myers.

A graveside committal service with Military Honors will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, December 9th, in South Sutton Cemetery, 29 Hough Road, Sutton.

Ed's family wishes to thank the VNA Hospice Team for the kindness and compassion provided to Ed during his final days. In lieu of flowers Ed's family respectfully request contributions be made in Ed's memory to the Friends of the Sutton Elders, 29 Hough Rd, Sutton, MA 01590.

Arrangements are under the care of Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough, MA 01532. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com.