Edward J. Schlueter, Iii

On Saturday July 16 ^th , 2022, Edward John Schlueter III, set sail on his maiden voyage into the eternal seas to join his long-departed mother Kathryn, whom he waited 54 years to embrace again.

Edward passed away with his crew (family), strong and close by his side, to comfort and assist him in untying the lines from the dock so he could sail his vessel into the uncharted waters that lay ahead. As he left, alone, on his mission at the helm, his first Mate (Wife) Nancy, stood on the dock as she has done so many times in the past, and gave the orders for him to clear the piling without damaging the ship. “The lines are free, honey”; “I’ve pushed off the bow”, “Be safe; I will see you soon- I LOVE YOU”. As he looked back for reassurance, he gasped three times under his breath to his crew… “I”….”Love”….”you”…. At the dock his crew was saddened with tears; heavy hearts not wanting the journey to begin, but they knew he was the Captain of this ship and would be safe on his voyage alone. As he navigated through the channel, the crew embraced one another feeling lost; however, the Captain left a wooden treasure chest for them worth limitless wealth of peace, comfort and laughter, if they could just find the brass skeleton key he left behind for them in anticipation of this day.

Crew on the dock for Edward’s cast off:

1 ^st Mate: (Wife) Nancy Schlueter

2 ^nd Mate: (Daughter) Sarah Bowers

3 ^rd Mate: (Daughter-in-law) Karen Schlueter

Chief Engineer: (Son) Edward Schlueter IV

Deckhand: (Granddaughter) Savannah Schlueter

Deckhand: (Granddaughter) Katelynn Crooms

Deckhand: (Niece) Karalyn Lamb

Bosun: (Grandson) Michael Schlueter

**In transit from Alaska- Relief Chief Engineer: (Son) Scott Schlueter

Edward was born to parents Edward II and Kathryn Schlueter on November 6 ,1944 in Brooklyn, N.Y. He attended Kings Point Merchant Marine Academy in 1967 and pursued a successful career for 60 years within the maritime industry. Throughout his career, Ed held numerous positions and retired as Vice President of Vessel Management Services, where he oversaw the delivery and commitment of 70+ tug/barge and container ship building projects during his tenure. He was revered throughout the maritime community and even in retirement often called upon for instruction or guidance. His knowledge and experience were the least of his accomplishments, as he would say, it was the friendships, relationships and bonds throughout the years that made him successful. But without a doubt, he would also say his greatest accomplishment was his wife of 52 years, Nancy, who was his anchor. She gave him the drive, motivation, strength, and security to travel the world overseeing ships, people, and budgets while she maintained the family for him to come home to, (HOMEPORT). Together they were the perfect ship that everyone admired and aspired to have one day.

In 2012, Ed enjoyed the new beginning of retirement with his wife Nancy and newfound crewmember (dog) “Tug” in Bluffton, S.C. where they built their dream home on the lake with beautiful sunsets. Unknowingly to Ed and Nancy, they would embark upon a new adventure of friends, adding to their already long list of very close friends abroad. Enjoying golf, cruising the world, dinner parties, movies, playing games, entertaining, camping throughout the US, visiting their children, grandchildren, and friends; they lived the life of retirement to the fullest. They found a place that they could truly call “home”- The ship was anchored!

While Ed became settled and more comfortable in retired life, he knew he had done everything and had everything in his life but something was missing; he just couldn’t quite put his finger on it. He wanted to write a book but didn’t know what kind of book or how to start. So, he turned to his first mate again, who gave him the encouragement to write “ The Right Thing ”. With crewmember Tug fast at his side, day by day bearing through the sea of pages, Ed wrote his book in 13 months. With both domestic and international publications, he became an Author completing his quest in life.

Preceded in death by; father Edward Schlueter II and mother Kathryn Schlueter.

Ed is survived by his beloved wife Nancy; children Edward (Karyanne), Scott (Karen), and Sarah; grandchildren Savannah, Michael, Megan, Adam, Brandon, Kiley and Katelynn; brother William (Shirley), sister Kathryn and many nieces and nephews, all of whom where active and close in his life.

Ed was loved and respected amongst his friends, colleagues, and family. His passing will forever leave an emptiness in everyone’s hearts and a fullness in their minds. Until our ships meet in port again, Pop- We love you!

A special thank you to Hospice for the care they provided. They showed a very special dedication and attention that was above and beyond any of our expectations. Thank you!