Edward David Chacko, 97, of West Wyoming, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, August 28, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of military service, family devotion and a lifetime of commitment to his community.
Born in West Wyoming on September 1, 1928, Edward was the son of the late Andrew and Mary (Sabol) Chacko. His life spanned nearly a century and included honorable service to his country during one of the most difficult conflicts of the 20th century.
Edward served in the United States Marine Corps from 1948 to 1952 during the Korean War. During his service, he was among the Marines known as the “Chosin Few,” veterans of the legendary Battle of the Chosin Reservoir. His military service remained an important part of his life and a testament to his dedication and courage.
Following his time in the Marine Corps, Edward returned to the Wyoming Valley and built a long career at Diamond Manufacturing Company in West Wyoming. He remained with the company for the majority of his working life before eventually retiring.
Family was at the center of Edward’s life. He was described as a loving husband and father and a steadfast provider whose devotion to those he loved never wavered. He shared 68 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Anna A. Chacko, who preceded him in death on July 28, 2022.
Edward was also a faithful member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Swoyersville, where his faith remained an important part of his life.
In addition to his parents and wife, Edward was preceded in death by his daughter, Karen Cholewa; his brothers, Andrew and John Chacko; and his sisters, Dorothy Michael and Florence Butcofski.
He is survived by his loving nieces and nephews, Andrew Chacko, Linda Royer, Barbara DeLeo, Frank Butcofski and Cynthia Butcofski, DDS, along with many grandnieces and nephews who will carry his memory forward.
Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects during a viewing on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, from 9 to 10 a.m. at Bednarski Funeral Home, 168 Wyoming Avenue, Wyoming. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:30 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, 116 Hughes St., Swoyersville, with the Rev. John J. Chmil officiating.
Interment will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Carverton, where military honors will be accorded by the United States Marine Corps in recognition of Edward’s honorable service.
As family, friends and members of the community gather to remember Edward, they will reflect on a life defined by service, faith, hard work and devotion to family. From his years wearing the Marine uniform to his decades as a dedicated worker and his many years as a husband, father and uncle, Edward Chacko leaves behind memories that will remain with those who knew and loved him.
His passing marks the end of a remarkable 97-year journey, but the values he embodied and the memories he created will continue through the generations of family and friends who were fortunate to share his life.
