Edward "Ed" Piechowiak, a man of unwavering faith, uncommon dedication, and boundless love for his family and community, entered into eternal rest on December 2, 2025. He was 85 years old.

Born on October 7, 1940, in Baltimore, Ed grew up with strong values rooted in faith, service, and education. He attended St. Michael's in Baltimore City and went on to spend two years at The Marianist Prep School in Beacon, New York, before graduating from Calvert Hall. His extraordinary work ethic emerged early: at just 17 years old, Ed began the Westinghouse–Johns Hopkins work-study program, working full-time while attending college full-time. His determination and intellect led him to earn both his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Electrical Engineering from Johns Hopkins University.

Ed devoted nearly 49 years to Westinghouse and later Northrop Grumman, retiring in June 2005. He absolutely loved his work and took great pride in every project, every challenge, and every opportunity to contribute to something meaningful. His career was not simply a job—it was a vocation, pursued with passion, integrity, and gratitude.

While doing a Calvert Hall play, Ed met the love of his life, Diane (Stem), both cast together in the chorus. Their harmony extended far beyond the stage. Ed and Diane married on June 10, 1961, beginning a 64-year journey of shared faith, partnership, and devotion. Together they built a beautiful family and a life rich with adventure, music, and service.

Ed loved Jesus with all his heart and soul. He attended daily Mass, served as a lector and occasional cantor, taught CCD, and lived his faith through action as much as prayer. His voice—steady, warm, and full of conviction—was a reflection of a life committed to Christ.

Music was one of Ed's greatest joys. He sang with the Glad Men of Song at St. Lawrence, the Irishman's Chorale, and later the Harmonizers at Charlestown Retirement Community. Whether performing for an audience or humming while tinkering with a project, Ed carried a song wherever he went.

He cherished time spent camping with his family across the country and into Canada, cheering passionately for the Baltimore Orioles and Ravens, exploring the world through extensive travel, and participating in the Knights of Columbus. His sense of adventure was matched only by his delight in simple, heartfelt moments shared with those he loved.

Ed was also deeply committed to service. For years, he prepared taxes for senior citizens through AARP's Tax Aide program at the Catonsville Senior Center. He devoted an incredible 42 years to St. Mark's Scout Troop 456, helping guide generations of young men with patience, leadership, and kindness. At Charlestown Retirement Community, he was an invaluable presence on the Maintenance & Engineering Committee, the Benevolent Care Committee, the Residents Council, and the Dining Committee. Wherever Ed served, he offered thoughtful insight, steady dependability, and genuine care.

Above all, Ed was a family man. He is survived by his beloved wife, Diane Piechowiak; his children Michael (Jocelyn), Stephen (Nicole), Theresa Wertz (Trent), and William (Carol); and his treasured grandchildren Travis Wertz (Jessica), Toni Frankenberry (Ryan), Taylor Plummer (Mark), Kayla Illescas (Bradley), Thomas Piechowiak, Marley Piechowiak, Delaney Piechowiak, and Addison Piechowiak. He was blessed with eight great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Frank Piechowiak and Bertha Mary Piechowiak (Rachubinski), and his brother Matthew Piechowiak. He is lovingly remembered by his siblings Daniel Piechowiak and Mary Susan Liles, and by his sisters-in-law Mary Sharon Burkley and Joyce Klein.

Ed's life was a testament to faith, family, service, and the belief that the world is made better when one gives fully of themselves. His legacy lives on not only in the family he cherished, but also in the many people whose lives he touched through kindness, generosity, and quiet strength.

May his soul rest in the peace of Christ and may those who loved him find comfort in the lasting melody of a life beautifully and faithfully lived.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Little Sisters of the Poor: littlesistersofthepoorbaltimore.org.