Continuing the Crook County News Since 1884

Edward A. Medina

Edward A. Medina, 51, from Rawlins, Wyoming, unexpectedly passed away July 19, 2019 at his family’s ranch in Aladdin, Wyoming. Ed left us in his sleep, due to an enlarged heart.

Edward, best known to friends and family simply as Ed, was born in Denver, Colorado, and grew up in Rawlins. Ed was a lover of sports, camping, fishing, magic, and perhaps a little bit of mischief throughout his high school years. Ed joined the United States Air Force immediately after high school and proudly served his country in the USAF for 22 years before retiring in 2009 as a Master Sergeant.

While Ed served his country, he became the proud father of his children Ashley and Dustin. And, as military families often do, they traveled the globe as Ed was stationed in Utah, Texas and Japan, just to name a few.

Ed was incredibly proud of his service in the United States Air Force and his commitment to serve extended to the way he lived his life, especially on the family ranch. He was best known for his quick wit and humor and his “Here, let me help” mentality, not to mention the magical meals that brought people together from far and near. He was a man who, at his very core, was always about supporting and serving others.

As a veteran, Ed was recently introduced to the No Barriers organization, a community of curious, brave and collaborative explorers who are determined to live a life without barriers and contribute their best to the world. This amazing group welcomed Ed into their community with open arms, where he enjoyed adventurous hiking, white water rafting, scaling mountains and telling stories, each one bigger than the last.

Ed is survived by his parents, Tom and Bonnie Schwindt from Aladdin; his daughter, Ashley Medina from Louisiana; his son, Dustin Medina from Aladdin; and his sister, Melody Medina from New Jersey.

Family has always been precious to Ed, including Kim Wold, Kristi Watson, Kindra Pacheco, Kelly Schwindt and Kregg Schwindt, the Marchant family (who some might mistake as neighbors), his Uncle Gary, Aunt Debbie and each of his cousins.

Ed’s military inurnment will be held on Friday, July 26 promptly at 10 a.m. at the Black Hills National Cemetery.

A celebration of life will continue at the Bear Necessities Ranch (please bring chairs) at 1155 Oak Creek Rd., Aladdin. In lieu of flowers, you may donate to: NOBARRIERSUSA.ORG

Online condolences may be written at http://www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com