USMC Cpl. Edmund K. Vandecasteele IV age 22, died Saturday, Aug. 1 in California from injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident.
He was born in Methuen, MA, grew up and was educated in Salem, where he graduated from Salem High School in 2006.
In September of 2006 Eddie enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. After boot camp in Parris Island, SC, he completed his MCT training at Camp Lajeune, NC, and then completed his ammunitions training at Red Stone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL. He was then stationed 2 years at Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan where he was in Ammo Company, 3rd Supply Battalion. In Japan he was an Ammunition Technician, Camp Guard, and certified swim instructor. He also obtained his scuba diving certification. His last permanent duty station was at Camp Pendleton in California, where he was in the 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division. He received the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon 2X, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and a Certificate of Appreciation. He loved movies, video games, 80s music, football, especially the Patriots, and spending time with his family and friends.
He is survived by his Mother & Step Father:
Lisa (Beaudoin) & Glenn Desrosiers of Windham, NH
His Sister: Shana Vandecasteele of Windham, NH
Step Grandparents: Gene & Margaret Desrosiers of Tyngsboro, MA
His Father: Edmund K. Vandecasteele III of Florida
Paternal Grandparents, Several Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, & Numerous Close Friends.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday, Aug. 10 at 10 AM at St. Matthew’s Parish, Windham, NH. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, Salem, NH.
Calling hours will be held Sunday, Aug. 9 from 2-6 PM at the Douglas & Johnson Funeral Home, 214 Main Street, Salem, NH.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Eddie’s name to the: MARINE TOYS FOR TOTS FOUNDATION, 18251 Quantico Gateway Drive, Triangle, VA 22172.