Obituary of Edmund John Meincke

Rev. Edmund J. Meincke

After a long illness, Edmund J. Meincke, of Hebron CT, left us on June 6. 

He was a kind, compassionate, caring man who always felt called to be of service. More than any award or honor, what mattered most to him was that those around him felt heard, seen, and loved.

Born in Akron, Ohio to Louise and Russ Meincke, Ed came to Boston with his guitar, banjo and sax to attend Andover Newton Theological Seminary, and upon graduation settled in Connecticut. 

Ed eventually landed at Glastonbury Youth Services, where he served as its Director for 34 years. Known as the “Grandfather of Youth Services” in CT, he helped create the CT Youth Services Association in 1972, where he served as the first president, and spent his career helping the field grow across the state.

Also known to many as Pastor Ed, he served part time positions as an ordained interim minister for many CT United Church of Christ churches.  After retiring from Glastonbury, he completed his ministry with a full time position at Talcottville Congregational Church (UCC) in Vernon, CT.  He felt it a privilege and an honor to serve his congregations through times of change, and was blessed to serve at baptisms, funerals, and weddings.

Pop Pop to his granddaughters, Ed leaves his beloved Riley and Freya to remember him for his kind spirit and good heart.  Also mourning his passing are his wife of 45 years, Deborah; and their children David (Bri) and Katie (Chris).  Ed also leaves behind his sister Eleanor (Tony) and cousin Carl (Judy), many in-laws, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Ed was predeceased by his brother Jim, and his parents Russ and Louise.

Ed touched many lives throughout his years of service; whether through his friendship, mentorship, music, stories, or prayers. He was an advocate for the underdog, and he saw the good in everyone. Alzheimer’s Disease robbed him of his memories, but never his loving spirit.

Our family would like to recognize the wonderful care Ed received from Buckingham Heights Memory Care in Glastonbury, and the assistance of the Alzheimer’s Association of CT.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Gilead Congregational Church in Hebron on Saturday, July 11 at 11:00 A.M., with reception to follow.  All are welcome.  Ed would be happy to have you dress comfortably.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the charity of your choice in Ed’s memory.