Edwin D. Burns | Store owner, 65

Edwin D. Burns, 65, of Upper Providence, owner of Holmes True Value Hardware, died of liver cancer Wednesday at his home.

Mr. Holmes grew up in Upper Darby and graduated from Archbishop Bonner High School in Drexel Hill. He served in the Marine Corps and was a member of the Marine reserve for six years.

After active duty, he worked for the Lansdowne Hardware Store, then owned several hardware stores with partners before acquiring Holmes True Value in the 1970s.

He had the store memorized and could direct customers to any item, said his wife, Judith Burns. His sons Edwin and Timothy now operate the store.

Mr. Holmes was past president of the Baltimore Pike Rotary Club and was a member of the local Moose and Elks lodges. He sponsored and played in many charity golf tournaments in the area.

He and his wife had been married since 1971. They met at the Jersey Shore and enjoyed spending time at their summer home in Wildwood.

In addition to his wife and sons, Mr. Holmes is survived by another son, Alexander; two brothers; and a sister.

A Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. today at St. Sharbel Church, 3679 Providence Rd., Newtown Square. Friends may call at 9:30 a.m. Burial will be in SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Marple Township.