Edward Thomas Dercole

PAPA

Edward Thomas Dercole, 93, of Hamden, passed away peacefully at home on April 29, 2026.

Born in Englewood, New Jersey on April 22, 1933, Edward was the son of the late John and Johanna Dercole, and the brother of the late John Dercole and Dorothy Herman. He was also predeceased by his former wife, Norma Dercole. A proud Marine and Korean War veteran, Ed went on to serve his community with distinction as a dedicated police officer and detective for the Hamden Police Department for 37 years. He also served as President of the Hamden Police Benevolent Association.

His family was his greatest joy. He was a proud and loving father to Joni (David) Preller, Edward (Susan) Dercole, and Cynthia (Edward) Ercolano. He was a devoted grandfather to Matthew (Mayra) and Aaron Freier; Edward and Anthony Dercole; Brittany (Dino) Mancinelli; Joseph (Alexa) Ercolano; and Lauren (Kevin) Small. He was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren: Luciano, Nico, and Giovanni Ercolano; Luca and Matteo Small; and Gianna and Dino Mancinelli.

Ed lived life fully with enthusiasm and a witty sense of humor. He enjoyed traveling, spending time living in Australia and cherished his many trips to Aruba. He loved the beach, the sun, playing cards, and following the horse races. He was especially fond of happy hours, dining out, and spending time with good friends. He loved watching his grandkids play sports- especially their hockey tournaments- never missing a game, or a chance to cheer them on. He also enjoyed trips to the casino with his dear friend Steve and never missed his morning breakfasts at the State Street Cafe. Known for his impeccable style, Ed was always a sharp dresser and loved a good pair of sunglasses.

A heartfelt thank you to his incredible aid, Kerryann, whose compassion, dedication and unwavering care has meant so much over the past year and a half.  

Ed will be remembered for his warmth, his dedication to his family, friends and community and his quick wit and charming personality.

In lieu of flowers, Ed's family asks that you consider making a donation to "The Cure Starts Now," for pediatric brain cancer on behalf of Ed's great-grandson, Luca.

Ed's family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday, May 5th from 9:15 until 10:45 a.m. at the Washington Memorial Funeral Home, 4 Washington Avenue, North Haven. His funeral cortege will depart the funeral home at 11:00 a.m. for a Mass of Christian Burial which will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. in St. Therese Church (St. Piere Giorgio Frassati Parish, formerly St. Elizabeth of the Trinity Parish), 555 Middletown Ave., North Haven. Burial with Military Honors will follow in All Saints Cemetery, 700 Middletown Ave., North Haven. washingtonmemorialfh.com
 

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