Edward “Eddie” R. Foster Jr., 65, of Plant City, died Feb. 25, 2016.
Mr. Foster was born on Nov. 20, 1950, in Colorado City, Texas, to Edward R. Foster Sr. and Lois C. Foster. He grew up in Pasadena, Texas, where he became an avid game hunter and an athlete. He excelled in football, track, basketball and baseball. His talent in football led him to a four-year scholarship as a middle linebacker and center for Howard Payne University. There, he became a member of the 1971 Lone Star Conference championship team, playing in the Cowboy Bowl in Norman, Oklahoma and a bowl game in Mexico City.
He excelled academically, earning a bachelor’s degree in physical education history, with a minor in English.
Upon graduation, he was employed by GATX, working with Petroleum Pipelines, Tank Farms for 28 years.
In 1990 he was promoted and transferred as operations manager of the Tampa facility at the Port of Tampa.
In 2000 he was employed by DC Engineering as an inspector, consultant and excavationist. In 2005 he became the sole proprietor of Foster Group Associate Inc., as a consultant excavating and repairing petroleum pipelines.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Ruth Ann Foster, daughter Kaitlyn Ann Boston (Daniel Scott Boston); beloved granddaughter, Kali Ann Boston; mother, Lois C. Foster; and sister, Cynthia Marie Foster.
He was preceded in death by his father, Edward R. Foster; and brother, Kenneth Dean Foster.
He will be greatly missed for his laughter, great smile, mischievous nature and great stories.
A celebration of life was held March 3, at First Baptist Church of Plant City. A graveside service followed at Marion Cemetery in Marion, Ohio.
Online condolences may be made at HopewellFuneral.com.