Edward B. Dessart, at the age of 100, of Port Charlotte, FL and previously West Hempstead, NY, passed away peacefully, Jan. 30, 2013. Born August 27, 1912, New York City, Ed retired from the U.S. Postal Service following a long career in administration. A dominant thread throughout his life was MUSIC. As a teen he pursued drums and played with older brother Bob’s Band, eventually switching to the guitar. As a member of the BIG BAND era, Ed’s talent was recognized by several of the “greats” — such as Benny Goodman for one. In addition to his postal duties, The Dessart Brothers were much in demand entertaining musically for Long Island’s society circuit.

Ed is survived by his loving wife, Josephine “Dolly” (Mason) Dessart, his son Gerald Dessart (wife, Dorothy), stepchildren Robert T. Mason Jr., Ann C. Marcus (husband, Donald L.) and Stephen M. Mason (wife, Jane).

Preceding Edward in death were his parents, Robert and Florence (Nelson) Dessart, his beloved wife Margaret (Faust) Dessart, his son Edward B. Dessart Jr., brothers Eugene and Robert, sister Florence Brennan and a baby sister Virginia (in infancy), also niece Donna Marie Dessart and stepdaughter Therese Mason.

The remaining family members include six grandchildren: Kim Grillo, Edward B. Dessart III, Jean Phillips, Gerald Dessart Jr., Denise Henning and Douglas Dessart as well as seven step-grandchildren: Robert III, Shannon, Rachel, Fayann, Casey, Bailey, and Stephen. Lovingly included are 21 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

On retiring to Port Charlotte in 1973, Ed stopped to visit the Cultural Center and was attracted by strains of music and for the next 40 years music filled his life: Guitar classes, Fun with Music, Cultural Center Friday night dances, Swing Kings (17yrs), Professional “Gigs” — as well as hours of devoted Volunteer service.

An Eagle Scout in his youth, a volunteer Firefighter, a family man and mentor, Ed’s life was fulfilled. He lived with humility, courage, love and kindness.

A gathering of family and friends will be on Wednesday February 6, 2013, at Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home 2405 Harbor Boulevard from 4:30PM -8:30PM, A funeral Mass will be held on Thursday February 7, 2013 at St Charles Borromeo Catholic Church at 11:00AM, Inurnment will follow at Restlawn Memorial Gardens. The family requests remembrances be made to the Cultural Center of Charlotte County or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are by Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Port Charlotte Chapel.