OBITUARY: Captain Edward Adam Lanni, 97, of Cocoa Passed Away Peacefully Dec. 16

Proudly served his country for 56 years: 40 years in the U.S. government, 16 years as a Merchant Mariner

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – Captain Edward Adam Lanni, 97, of Cocoa, Florida, a dedicated husband and friend to many, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 16, 2022. He was born on May 11, 1925, in Rochester, New York, however, Cocoa was where he called home.

As he set sail on his heavenly journey, Capt. Ed was surrounded by his loved ones. He lived a full life that was filled with countless adventures throughout the many world seas and oceans. He was drawn to the sea as a young teenager and never looked back.

Capt. Ed proudly served his country for 56 years, 40 years in the U.S. government, and 16 years as a Merchant Mariner. He participated in numerous world events that spanned from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, along with many other conflicts thereafter.

After retiring from the bridge of his many ships, Capt. Ed pursued a much quieter life with his wife, Shirley, in the town of Cocoa. As a long-time resident of Cocoa, he enjoyed volunteering his time to many community activities.

Some of these activities include being one of the original V-Cops for the local police force, serving on the board of the Cocoa Community Redevelopment Agency, being one of the founders of Cocoa Village Main Street, and serving as president for many years, raising money to build the Cocoa High School Football stadium and race track, being instrumental in raising money to refurbish the Derby Street Chapel, attending countless city council meetings and much, much more.

He even threw his hat into the local political arena. The City of Cocoa has honored him numerous times by declaring May 11th Captain Ed Lanni Day and naming the newly developed T-Dock at Lee Wenner Park after him.

He was also appointed Emeritus Ambassador for the Port of Cape Canaveral. Most recently, Capt. Ed received a replica of the Merchant Mariner of World War II Congressional Gold Medal.

He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Shirley Ingram-Lanni, daughters Ginger Pavelchik (John), Lauren Devol, son Jeffrey Ingram, and daughter Livie West (Adam), along with his many loving grand-children and great grand-children.

He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and his son Robbie Lanni. Capt. Ed was a lighthouse within the Cocoa Community, there was no one that he did not call his friend.

It is the hope of his family that the focus is on reminiscing on special times and recollections to honor him. So, for now, a formal service will be announced at a later date. With the sun rising over the horizon, take comfort with us in knowing that Capt. Ed is standing confidently at the helm of his heavenly ship commanding his new crew through another successful voyage.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking you to please donate to the National Veterans Homeless Support in Edward’s name.

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