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Edwin Marion Clovis Flory, 98

It is with great sadness that we announce Ed’s passing on Nov. 2, 2017, at the amazing age of 98 years. He was born in Winchester, Idaho, to Cecil Edwin Flory and Emma Eldora Clovis, the first of what would be a family of three boys. He was an only child for nine years, and thus began a life of spoilage. His father, a teacher, and his mother, a homemaker, doted on him, as did his grandparents who were farmers in the Winchester area. His brothers, James and Cecil Jr., arrived later and did little to dilute the love and attention Ed received. He rode Harley and Indian motorcycles as soon as he was old enough to save the necessary funds to buy one. He delivered newspapers and had a parcel delivery service, with the aid of a side-car bolted to his motorbike.

After graduating from Clarkston High School, Ed moved to Spokane, Wash., and began a 30-year career working for Caterpillar Tractor Company. While returning from a business trip to San Francisco, he met Wanda Ruth Heath, a transplanted Texan via California, on a Greyhound bus. They were married in 1949, and his young bride began the second phase of his life of spoilage. Their life together would produce three children and would endure for 53 years. Ed was fortunate enough to retire from Cat at the age of 57, and soon after he and Wanda sold their home in Spokane to begin living at their lake home at Cave Bay on beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene.

Edwin lost Wanda in 2002, and it was then spoilage phase three for him. Dale had the privilege of looking after his Dad and made it his goal to keep Ed happy and healthy in his own home. Once again, Ed was surrounded with love, attention, and laughter, and fussed over for 15 years.

Edwin is survived by his three children; Robert (Carol) Flory of Spokane, Dale (Wayne) Flory of Cave Bay and Lisa (Richard) Covell of Ft. Worth, Texas. Five grandchildren followed; Robert Flory of Henderson, Nev., Travis (April) Flory of Spokane, Allyson Flory of Seattle, Micah (Alexis) Rowe of Seattle, and Kennard (Jaime) Rowe of Spokane. Also surviving are six great-grandchildren: Aidan, Baylee, Connor, Levi, Wyatt and Henry round out the team. He is also survived by brother, Cecil Jr., of Anacortes.

There are many people to thank. First and foremost, to Wayne Henderson for his invaluable assistance in helping Dale successfully keep Ed in his own home where he belonged. To Dr. Jeff Clode and his team for keeping Ed upright for so many years. To the Worley Senior Center for their years of fellowship. And to the folks at the Red Tail Bar and Grill at the Cd’A Casino for treating Ed like family every Saturday night.

On Saturday, Nov. 18, family and friends are invited to the house at Cave Bay for a casual celebration of all things Ed. An open house from 1 to 5 p.m. is planned. Visit Ed’s guestbook at riplingerfuneralhome.com.