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Edward Anthony Rainha, Jr., 68, a longtime resident of Brimfield, MA, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2024 at Leominster Rehabilitation & Nursing Center surrounded by his loving family. Born in Stafford, CT on April 28, 1956 to the late Edward and Anne (Brady) Rainha, he grew up in Springfield, MA where he attended Trade High School. After high school, he served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1976-1979. Ed had a long career as a truck driver, working for several local companies throughout the years. Ed was a loyal Detroit Lions fan and enjoyed following Indy car racing. One of his greatest joys was his hobby of building model trains and racetracks. He was meticulous and intuitive in his approach, spending countless hours perfecting each detail. His creations were a source of pride and fascination, not just for him but for all who had the pleasure of seeing them. Ed's presence was marked by his warm smile and gentle kindness that he extended to everyone he knew.
He leaves his beloved wife of 38 years, Sandra (Thomas) Rainha; his siblings and their spouses: Kathleen and John McParland of New Windsor, NY, William and Paulette Rainha of Enfield, CT, Elizabeth and Michael Piela of Ludlow, MaryAnn Magistri of Sturbridge, Maureen and David Grissom of Lee, and Christeen and Tom Jerard of West Springfield; his brothers-in-law, Paul Thomas of Gilbertville and James and Tricia Thomas of Ware; many nieces and nephews along with other extended family members and friends.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 from 10am-12pm at Nowak Funeral & Cremation Services, 15 Ludlow Ave., Springfield followed by a Funeral Service at 12pm. Burial with military honors will be at 2pm at the MA Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, Agawam.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Ed’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or online at www.cancer.org/donate. To offer condolences online to the family, please visit www.nowakfuneral.com.
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