On the serene day of November 4, 2023, the world bid farewell to a soul whose generosity knew no bounds. Edward M. Herzog, affectionately known as Eddie, passed away peacefully at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and a profound impact on the lives of those he touched. Born in Yonkers, New York, Eddie’s early years were woven with tales that could captivate the imagination for hours. His youth was marked by the vibrancy of his spirit and a passion for storytelling that would later manifest in his lifelong love affair with photography. Behind the lens, Eddie found a medium through which he could capture the beauty and essence of the world around him.
As a professional photographer, Eddie’s lens didn’t just frame images; it told stories of love, joy, and the nuances of life. Many will forever picture him with a camera in hand, a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft. His passion for photography spilled over into every facet of his life, becoming a defining aspect of the memories he created and shared with those fortunate enough to know him. Eddie’s commitment to community service was as pronounced as his love for photography. A stalwart volunteer, he served as the president of the Amazon Park Association and the Yorktown Area Jaycees, embodying the spirit of giving back. His presence was felt in the Nor-West Regional Special Services community, where his enthusiasm for helping others shone brightly. As the president of Freedom Gardens for the Handicapped, Eddie’s compassionate heart extended to those who needed it most.
His commitment to education and spirituality was evident in his role as a CCD teacher at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Shrub Oak. Eddie’s lens captured not only moments of joy but also the sacred moments of faith, as he served as the dedicated photographer for the Seton Parish. At the core of Eddie’s world was his greatest supporter and love, his wife MaryEllen.
Together, they navigated the journey of life, facing its triumphs and challenges hand in hand. In the early stages of their life together, they welcomed the joy of adoption, bringing Luis into their hearts. Subsequently, they were blessed with three children, Bill, Erin, and MaryAnne, forming a family that stood as a testament to Eddie’s unwavering love and commitment.
The circle of love expanded with the arrival of nine grandchildren – Liam, Maeve, Cassidy, Shea, Brody, Connor, and Norah, who affectionately called him Pa. Through love, Gabriella and Christopher joined the family, further enriching the tapestry of Eddie’s legacy. His familial love extended to his daughter-in-law, Minnie, and sons-in-law, Drew and Matt, who became integral parts of the Herzog family story.
Eddie’s legacy is interwoven with the memories created alongside his brother Bill, numerous sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews, and his cherished friends – Jimmy, Richie, Jude, and Howard. Together, they shared the joys of life, creating a mosaic of moments that will forever hold a special place in their hearts.
While Eddie’s journey on this earthly plane has come to an end, the lessons he imparted endure. He taught his family to appreciate the beauty of a well-crafted quote or lyric, to marvel at the elegance of number sequences and dates, to seek value in every aspect of life, and, above all, to freely express love.
The phrase “I love you” became a mantra in the Herzog family, a testament to the depth of emotion and connection that defined their bonds.
As his family navigates the road ahead without his physical presence, they carry with them the warmth of Eddie’s love and the enduring impact of his teachings. The phrase “We love you. We’re in the car. Buckle up” echoes with a mix of sentimentality and humor, encapsulating the essence of a man who approached life with love, resilience, and an appreciation for the journey.
