Edward Albert Waterman
March 10, 1953 - March 8, 2025

Edward Albert “Ed” Waterman, 71, of McKinleyville, passed away suddenly on March 8, 2025, just two days shy of his 72nd birthday.

Born in Bakersfield to James and Mary Waterman, Ed graduated from East Bakersfield High School in 1971. After high school, Ed proudly served his country in the United States Navy as an Aircrewman, working as an Anti-Submarine Warfare Operator until he was honorably discharged in 1976, earning a National Defense Service Medal. Following his military service, Ed pursued his passion for architecture at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, where he graduated in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. Starting as a draftsman, he eventually became a licensed architect in Bakersfield, embarking on a distinguished 44-year career and focusing on the diversity of buildings and restoration. Ed’s parents were pillars in the Kern County education system. This strong sense of community instilled in Ed influenced his commitment to projects with the Bakersfield City School District, contributing to new builds, remodels, and modernization. Ed’s career diversity also took him to the East Coast, where he worked in Athens, Georgia, for Clark County, Heery International, and Motorola Inc.

Ed’s love for his family was evident in every aspect of his life. He and his future wife Maria, who attended the same high school, were brought together by fate at Raintree Health Gym in February 1984. They married on May 1, 1987, and Ed lovingly embraced the role of stepfather to Maria’s two sons, Desi and Damian. He dedicated himself to enriching their lives, introducing them to camping at Montana De Oro, fishing at Stony Creek, hiking the Sequoia National Forest, skiing at Sierra Summit, and the literary worlds of J.R.R. Tolkien.

Ed was a devoted family man who took immense pride in his role as grandfather. He never missed his granddaughter Rebeca’s dance performances or his grandson Kainoa’s soccer and basketball games. His love for his family remained unwavering until his final moments.

In 2001, Ed briefly took a break from his job in architecture and was trained to be a commercial truck driver. Shortly after, Maria joined him, and they became a team at Covenant Transport, working as long-haul drivers. This opportunity allowed Ed and Maria to see parts of the United States they had never imagined traveling to. Ed’s love for cooking reflected his warm and hospitable nature. He often entertained and prepared extravagant meals for friends and family, including his legendary “Eddie’s Spaghetti.” Usually working on projects around his house, Ed enjoyed his weekend trips to the hardware store. His joy in cuddling on the couch with Maria and their dog, Tuffy, while binge-watching their favorite show or enjoying a Georgia Bulldogs football game was part of his loving and caring personality.Upon retirement, Ed and Maria relocated to Humboldt County to be closer to family. Still, Ed’s passion for his profession and civil service soon led him to join the Humboldt County Department of Public Works as a Construction Projects Manager.

At the time of his passing, Ed was looking forward to his upcoming retirement and had enthusiastically planned numerous projects, including building a new chicken coop, restoring his vegetable garden, and visiting friends across the country. Ed was preceded in death by his parents, James and Mary Waterman. Ed is survived by his loving wife Maria, stepsons Desi Vega and Damian Vega, grandchildren Rebeca Vega and Kainoa Vega, brother David Waterman (Marsha), sister Karen Velgouth (Norman), Sister-in-law Elvira Zavala-Patton, numerous nephews, nieces, and family too large to mention as well as friends and colleagues whose lives were touched by his kindness, integrity, and dedication.

Ed’s commitment to service was a testament to his dedication and selflessness. He served his country, his profession, his community, and above all, his family with unwavering commitment. His legacy of love, craftsmanship, and adventure will continue to inspire all who knew him.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Ed Waterman’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.