Edward L. Nason Sr., 72, of Manchester, passed away suddenly on Thursday, April 4, 2013. Ed was born on February 4, 1941 in Hartford. Although his time with us was cut way too short, "Big Ed" lived a full life and left this world doing what he loved most, playing golf. Ed was a huge personality that filled every room he entered. A Red Sox fan from birth, every spring his optimism was reborn with the hope that the BoSox would finish ahead of the dreaded Yankees. He was fanatical about his Lady Huskies, someone that was a true UCONN believer long before they were great. Not to be confused with an outdoorsman, Ed did enjoy hiking and walking, along with golf, bowling and a prowess for card playing that defied explanation. He was as competitive as they came, but with an underlying compassion that made him everyone's friend. Oh, how he loved to laugh… Ed spent his professional life as the owner/operator of Automotive Parts Supply, a successful local Manchester business,that he poured his heart and soul into. Ed leaves behind the center of his universe, his wife of 49 years, Mary McDonnell Nason. He loved her more than life itself and treasured every moment they shared. A loving and dedicated father of three, he was fiercely proud of each of them and you could not have a conversation with him that didn't include hearing about the latest exploit of one of them. His children and their spouses, who he treated as if they were his own, son Jim Nason and his wife Kerry of Randolph, NJ; son Ed Nason Jr. and his wife Angela of South Windsor, CT and daughter Lisa Freeman and her husband Brad of Tolland, CT will miss him more than words can even begin to say. Nothing brought a smile to "Poppy's" face more than time with his beloved grandchildren who were blessed with the time that they had together, however short. Julia, Jordan, Kelsey, Allyson and Colton will grow up with only the fondest memories of their grandfather. Calling hours will be at Tierney Funeral Home 219 West Center St. Manchester from 4 to 7 PM on Monday, April 8th. The funeral will be held at St. Bridget Church 80 Main Street Manchester at 11AM on Tuesday, April 9th. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to St. Bridget Church. For online condolences please visit www.tierneyfuneralhome.com.