Luther Edward Chaplain III, “Ed,” age 79, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 30, 2026.

Ed is survived by the love of his life and best friend, Marilee (Heidorn) Chaplain, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories. He was a proud and devoted father to his sons, Tim (Sara) Chaplain and Scott (Sharon) Chaplain, and a loving grandfather to Amanda (Eric) Taylor, Nick (Erica) Chaplain, Samantha Chaplain, Marco (Kay) Montante, and Melissa Montante. His joy grew even greater with the arrival of his great-grandchildren, Kaedence and Aaliyah Taylor.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Freda Chaplain, and his beloved daughter, Heather (Chaplain) Montante, whom he carried in his heart always.

Born in Indiana, Pennsylvania, Ed went on to graduate from Penn State University with a degree in drafting and design. He built a long and respected career as a designer at Kodak in Rochester, New York. Even after retiring, Ed wasn’t one to sit still, he continued working part-time at Dewey Gardens and stayed active doing what he loved.
If you knew Ed, you knew his passion for bowling. It wasn’t just a hobby – it was part of who he was. He bowled for most of his life and was still proudly competing in a league this year. His dedication to the sport led him to serve as past president of the Rochester Bowling Association and the New York State Bowling Association, and he was honored with induction into the Hall of Fame.

But more than anything, Ed will be remembered for the way he loved his family. His children and grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he never missed a chance to share stories about them. He also found happiness in traveling, hunting, and fishing – simple pleasures that brought him peace and joy.

Ed was the kind of man people felt lucky to know – kind, honest, deeply faithful, and always ready with a smile or a laugh. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, a loving grandfather and great-grandfather, and a true friend to many. Being there for the people he loved was what mattered most to him, and it was where he was happiest.

There was never a kinder, God loving, honest fun-loving man. A wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He was the happiest being all of them.

His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Ed’s life story will be shared during visitation on Monday, May 11, from 3-6 pm at the funeral home, 1411 Vintage Lane, 14626, with his funeral service immediately following at 6 pm.