Edson Nels Kerrigan

Edson Nels Kerrigan, 95, of Cañon City, Colorado, peacefully passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Ed was a faithful servant of the Lord. He cast a giant shadow, like a great oak tree. He protected, loved, and cared for all who sought shelter beneath that shadow. He will be deeply missed.

Born on January 5, 1931, in Victor, Colorado, to Rose and Edward Kerrigan, Ed lived a life marked by hard work, quiet strength, unwavering integrity, and a deep love for his family. Through every season of life, he demonstrated what it meant to be dependable, humble, and kind. He proudly served in the United States Army, completing two tours during the Korean War, where he earned numerous service medals.

From a young age, Ed helped his parents in the trucking and quarry business, sparking his lifelong love for construction. He went on to build a remarkable career as a heavy equipment operator and was a proud member of Operating Engineers Local No. 9, where he retired after more than 50 years. He took great pride in the many projects he helped build and in the lasting impact of his work.

Ed was devoted to his family and took immense pride in the lives of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. His wisdom was often shared through his actions more than his words, and his steady presence provided comfort and guidance to everyone who knew him.

When the family was young, neighbors enjoyed watching them engage in epic water balloon fights or race each other up the block with Dad always winning. He was an outstanding softball player, and when he stepped up to the plate, he hit the ball so far it seemed to disappear.

He enjoyed hunting with his son Kevin and grandsons Christopher and Jacob. He was well known for his ornery sense of humor and loved riding his bicycle, fishing, playing the game Murder, and the card game Stupid. Friends and neighbors respected him for his honesty, generosity, and willingness to lend a helping hand.

Ed is survived by his children: Peggy Kerrigan Betts of Florence; Vicki (Pete) DelDuca of Florence; Dan (Gina) Kerrigan of Henderson, Nevada; Kevin (Lynette) Kerrigan of Greeley; and Catherine (Larry) Finney of Cañon City. He is also survived by his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; his brother, Doug Kerrigan; and his sister, Betty Proctor and sister in law; Joann Kerrigan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Rose Kerrigan; his beloved wife, Mary; his son, Edward; his grandson, Beau Patrick; and his brothers, Larry Kerrigan and Kenny Kerrigan.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, nurses, and hospice team who cared for Ed with compassion and dignity during his final days. The love and kindness shown to our entire family by the staff of Hildebrand Care Center were truly a blessing.

A celebration of life will be held at St. Benedict’s Catholic Church, Florence, CO on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at 9:45am.

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