Edward Socha, Sr., 82, of Rocky Hill, passed away peacefully from this life surrounded by loved ones after a valiant fight with cancer on Friday (July 28, 2006.) He was the beloved husband of the late Laura (Eurto) Socha, whom he was married to for 43 years. Edward was born on November 24, 1923 in Hartford and spent his entire life in Rocky Hill. He served over seas in World War II as a member of the 450th bomb group 720th division. He worked for the Connecticut Foundry and was the Second Letter Carrier hired for the town of Rocky Hill. He continued as a Letter Carrier and was accredited for 29 years of service, retiring in 1984. Ed was also a member of the Middletown Elks Club, Rocky Hill Fire Department, and the Rocky Hill VFW Post 2138. Besides his wife Laura who predeceased him in 1986, he is survived by two sons. Edward Socha Jr. and his wife Carrie, of Middletown, Gary Socha and his wife Judith of Cromwell; seven grandchildren, Edward Socha III, of Rocky Hill, Robert Socha of Chicopee MA, Dawn Garcia and her husband Greg of Hebron, David Socha of Vernon, Jeffrey Socha, of Columbia MD, Jill Martindale and her husband Chris of Wethersfield, and Jonathan Socha of Glastonbury. He's also survived by four great grandchildren, who referred to him as "Poppy," who brought him much joy over the last few years and were the true apples of his eyes. Trent and Austin Garcia, Megan Socha, and Charlie Martindale. Edward lived a long and fulfilling life and worked very hard to provide for his family. Some of his favorite pastimes were watching his beloved Red Sox, and he was so proud to finally see them win a world series. He also enjoyed many years of camping and square dancing and met many friends along the way, including them, a very special friend, Irene Smith of Rocky Hill whom he shared 18 years of wonderful companionship. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Elm Hill nursing home for the compassionate care given to our beloved Ed during these last few weeks of his life. Although our Dad, Gramps, Poppy, Friend and loved one has passed from this life, his memories and all of the things he taught us are forever etched in our minds. He was the glue that held our family together. We will forever miss you and look forward to the day we will meet again. Funeral service will be Tuesday at 9 a.m. from the D'Esopo Funeral Chapel, 277 Folly Brook Blvd. Wethersfield followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. James Church, Rocky Hill. The burial will be in Rose Hill Memorial Park, Rocky Hill with full military honors. Calling hours are Monday from 4-8 p.m. at the D'Esopo Funeral Chapel. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 538 Preston Avenue, Meriden, CT. 06450. For on line expressions of sympathy please visit www.desopo.com