WILMINGTON — Edward T Nesselroade of Wilmington, NC left this earthly life to join his heavenly father on Friday, May 5, 2023. Ed, as he was known to his family and friends, was born on June 4, 1934, to the late Reverend John Shelton Nesselroade and Emma Eleatha Nesselroade in Jackson County, W.Va.
After graduating from Marietta College, Ed began his early career as a Pastor in the Evangelical United Brethren Church. Life moved forward at lightening speed as he and his beloved first wife Pauline Ward Nesselroade started and raised their young family, and Ed transitioned into a career in business.
Ed spent most of his career with Kaiser Aluminum and Chemical Corporation where, as an operations executive, he managed aluminum fabrication and reduction, building products and chemical manufacturing divisions. His work at KACC led his family to live in California, Texas, New Jersey, West Virginia, and Ohio. While at KACC, Ed completed Harvard University’s Program for Management Development.
In 1985 Ed joined GS Roofing Products as Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Headquartered in Texas, GS was a national manufacturer and distributor of asphalt shingles and related products.
After retiring, Ed and Pauline relocated to Wilmington NC where they quickly made a life and an impact in the community. As avid supporters of both UNCW and Cape Fear Community College, they established scholarship funds, and supported athletic programs. Ed served on UNCW’s Board of Visitors. In their church, they were active members of the choir and Ed served on the Finance Committee. They loved the North Carolina coast and eventually attracted all three of their children to the state.
After 63 years together, Pauline predeceased Ed on July 26, 2016.
Ed is survived by Wanda Nesselroade, his wife of almost 5 years; his daughter Deb Hadley, his sons, Stephen Edward, John Ward, and their spouses (Brian, Jennie, Christine); his grandchildren Kati, Lauren, Andrew, Ryan, Erin and their families; his brothers John, Dale, Ken, David, his sister, Nancy, their families; and the family of his wife Pauline.
Ed loved to tell a joke, he never met a stranger, and those who knew him couldn’t help but love him. That love is his greatest legacy.
Sunday, June 4, 2023, would have been his 89th birthday. A celebration of his life will be held that day at the Frank H Kenan Chapel at Landfall, in Wilmington NC at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you hug a loved one, be ever optimistic, and if inclined, donate to the non-profit of your choice.
