Ed passed away at the “Wellness Center” in Fortuna on June 30, 2020, after spending two weeks at St. Joseph’s Hospital due to complications in his battle with cancer.

Ed was born Feb. 2, 1932 in Loleta to Mario and Esther Bognuda. He attended grammar school in Elk River and was a graduate of Eureka High. 

On August 23, 1952 he married Valerie Shirley.  Together, they raised four children — Gary, Kevin, Karen and Brian — while living in Elk River and Cutten.  

Ed also served in the Army during the Korean War where he was stationed at Fitzsimmons Army Hospital in Denver, Co.  He was a Sergeant 1st class.  After the service he worked for Levy Zentner, Select Cysco, and Pacific Seafoods.

Ed was a devoted, loving and generous Dad!  When not working, Ed was very active in his children‘s endeavors, supporting his sons in various racing activities and his daughter with her horse in gymkhanas.

Upon retiring, Ed moved to Crescent City and resided there until the last year of his life.  An avid fan of NASCAR racing, Ed thoroughly enjoyed watching his son Brian race at the Samoa Drag Strip. In regards to Samoa Drag Strip, Ed and some of his buddy’s started the races there back in the 50’s. He also belonged to a car club, the “Block Busters”.

Ed enjoyed his daily walks (while residing at his home in Crescent City) with his two very close friends, Frank & Julian.  He missed their good times together when he lived in Eureka for ongoing cancer treatments.  

Ed is survived by his children, Gary (Marci), Kevin (Elisa), Karen (Scott) and Brian; his grandchildren, Jamison, Ryan, Jennifer (Edgar), Drew (Holly), and Max; two great grandchildren, Malia and Klayden; sister, Livia; ex-wife and friend, Valerie; and his life partner for 30+ years, Nancy.  He was preceded in death by his father, mother and sister, Faye.  

Due to COVID limit of 10 people, a small private “family only” service will be held on July 8th at the Veteran’s Ocean View Cemetery in Eureka.  Pastor David Groe will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers and if desired, contributions would be appreciated for the awesome support of Hospice of Humboldt (707-445-8443) or to Samoa Drag Strip (707-845-5755) for bringing joy into Ed’s life, especially in his final year.  Thank you.

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