FRANKLIN- Retired Navy Master Chief, Edward W. Lakeman, 87, passed away from this world and from the ranks of United States Naval veterans on September 5^th, 2011 and he joined with those in glory who have been redeemed by the Lord Jesus Christ.  He was surrounded by family when he departed.

Mr. Lakeman was a proud World War II veteran, who served in the U.S. Navy for twenty-two years. While residing in Virginia Beach, “Cap’n Ed” always loved to boat and often took his family on exciting boating expeditions. One year ago, he moved with his wife from Thomaston, Maine to reside in Franklin.

He is survived by his loving wife of sixty-five years, Phyllis E. Lakeman; two sons, Daniel R. Lakeman and his wife, Faye, of Portland, Maine; Edward A. Lakeman and his wife, Donna, of Virginia Beach, Virginia; one daughter, Patricia J. Dillon and her husband, David of Franklin, Virginia; five grand-children Tate Ballance, Ben Dillon, Daniel Dillon, Aaron Lakeman and Tyler Lakeman; nine great grandchildren, Rebecca, Amber, Russell, Emily, Abbey, Jack, D.J., Benny and Stone; two brothers, Daniel A. Lakeman and his wife, Mary Jean of Littleton, Colorado, Bill Fifield and his wife, Joyce, of Virginia Beach, Virginia; one sister, Mary Jean Maynard, of Old Saybrook, Connecticut; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service with military honors will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday in the sanctuary of Rock Church Franklin, 130 Lakeview Road, Franklin, Virginia with Rev. David S. Dillon officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Rock Church School.  Wright Funeral Home is assisting the family. www.wrightfuneralhome.org.