Gates – Edward J. McGee, 71, passed away on April 4, 2020 at Unity Hospital in Greece, NY. He was born to Edward and Lorraine McGee (nee Hochreiter) in Rochester, NY on July 28, 1948. The oldest of three children, Edward attended McQuaid Jesuit High School. After serving in the Armed Forces in Vietnam, he earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the Rochester Institute of Technology. Later, he would join the faculty of The National Technical Institute for the Deaf at R.I.T. as a professor.
In retirement, Edward refused to slow down. He volunteered as a reading tutor for local elementary school children and lit up the stage as a performer with many local community theatre groups. Well known for his famous “dancing skills” and “dad jokes,” Edward entertained family and friends at every opportunity. He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed many seasons of Bills football as a season ticket holder. As any self-respecting Irishman can attest, Ed was also a diehard fan of Notre Dame football. He did not limit himself to home games, however, as Ed was known to travel the country visiting friends and family, while always leaving time to attend a game.
Ed was preceded in death by his wife of over 30 years, Valerie J. McGee (nee Duffy) and both of his parents. He is survived by his son, Patrick, his sisters Beth Navarro Terrana and Christine Adam, as well as many nieces and nephews.
A memorial will be planned at a later date where loved ones can gather to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to any of the following organizations in Ed’s honor: Unity Hospital of Greece, NY, The American Brain Tumor Association, or any local Rochester Theatre group.
