John Charles Edwards

1945 ~ 2014

A man for whom, should have had the middle name "Guts", caught the train to the other side on May 29th, 2014. John Charles Edwards, formerly of Salt Lake City, Utah and Idaho Falls, Idaho passed much like he entered, "Tough as Nails". John was born May 24, 1945, to Joseph Lester and Katherine Jean Edwards in Salt Lake City, Utah.A Train Master, Breakman, and Conductor with the Union Pacific Railroad for nearly 36 years, "JC" took an immense amount of pride in being a Railroader. After retiring, his day didn't really begin until he had totally solved the local paper's daily crossword puzzle; his vocabulary and knowledge of the written word were ever evident. An avid vegetarian for well over 40 years, John wouldn't find any qualms with calling food manufacturers to verify their products were truly organic and chemical free. The first weekend in June always found family and friends in Idaho Falls for Beer Fest. If you're not ready to go by noon, you're not going, because he's leaving you behind. John was responsible for beginning many organizations and "clubs". Those of you who know, know what I'm talking about. He loved camaraderie, a good beer, a card game, likely one which most don't even know how to play any longer, and a challenging argument. He was ever the devil's advocate, inviting you to argue a point to the best of your ability, rarely giving you any slack. John held 5 advanced degrees from the University of Utah and University of Idaho. The final of which was a Master's Degree in Nuclear Hazardous Waste Management. He was a dedicated and passionate student of life. Prideful and cautious, he carried a family's generation and legacy with etiquette and grace. He had an affinity for the outdoors and everything creation had to offer there within. He especially enjoyed the wilderness, camping under the stars, a love he shared with family and friends throughout his life. Some favorite haunts were the Black Box, San Rafael Swell and Fisher Towers. He also traveled outside of the United States to South America, Mexico and Europe. A man with an appreciation for the path less traveled; exploring the intricacies and beauty beyond the mainstream walls. A zeal for life, a man who was rawhide tough, yet tender. A happy man with a contented heart. A charismatic, sarcastic wit and infectious laugh. He surrounded himself with those blessed with gifts of poetry, art and music, ever moved by its brilliance. The simplest of splendors were never lost on him - The breathtaking way a beautiful woman carries herself, the single tear shed for a lost love, the embrace from a true friend which breathes life into the soul. John's pride and joy, and eternal selflessness, was for his three children. His love for them was stunningly radiant, cultivating their precious minds and spirits, priority number one. More than just a Father, he was a friend, a confidante and a secret keeper. The depth of his love inspired not only them, but many of their friends, to both intellectual pursuits and generosity. He nourished the souls of many and wanted for little. His only ask was to be able to raise his "Gang"; and "He got it". Right on, Dad. May the force be with us all, for the road is long and hard, but remember kiddo's, it's the journey. The journey is the reward.John is survived by his children, Jennifer Leif Frank (David) and Julie Edwards, of Salt Lake City; Justin Edwards, of Louisiana; and two grandchildren, Jack Frank and Violet Edwards.Honorably discharged from the Army, John will be placed to rest with Honor's on June 14th, 2014, at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery, at 2 p.m. The family would like to invite guests to join them in celebrating his life at the home of Dave and Leif Frank, 3190 S. Young Haven Circle, SLC, 84109, Saturday June 14th at 4:00 p.m. family members will be speaking, at 5:30 p.m. Additional services will be held in Idaho Falls at a later date. An adult affair, children under 18 are not excluded, yet not recommended.