Edward Cornett

Edward “Ed” Cornett was the son of Grover and Nettie Cornett born on June 30, 1924 in Montrose, CO.After graduating from Montrose High School in 1942, Ed enlisted in the Navy and proudly served until 1946, mainly in the South Pacific. Upon returning home, he enrolled at Western State College in Gunnison, CO, where he met the love of his life, Frances Meinzer of Monte Vista, CO. They transferred to Denver University where Frances graduated in 1948 and Ed in 1950. They were married on Aug. 28, 1948 in Denver.In search of a new adventure and job opportunities, the couple moved to Long Beach, CA in 1950 where Ed enjoyed a 30-year teaching career with the Long Beach Unified School District.  Although he initially taught elementary school, he soon progressed to junior high and ultimately high school, where he shared his passion for American history with countless students over the years.  He LOVED telling stories and giving anyone who would listen a “history lesson” or two.    During the 11 years they lived in Buena Park, CA, Ed and Frances enjoyed traveling the world (touring 11 countries) and making memorable visits to every state in the U. S. except N. Dakota and Alaska.Following Ed’s retirement in 1981, the couple would eventually move to Prescott, AZ in 1988. Ed became a founding member of OLLIE and facilitated 45 different classes for the life-long learning program at the Yavapai Community College in Prescott. Ed especially loved researching and teaching the history of the American West and the American Civil War and was a voracious reader of both subjects.  During this time, Frances volunteered at the Prescott Public Library for 16 years.In addition to his tremendous interest of history and literature, Ed also enjoyed playing the cornet, hiking, cooking out, going to the movies…and making sure his vehicle was spotless!  Ed was a devoted family man with a GREAT sense of humor and a loud, infectious laugh!  Whether as a husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, or friend, he always showed much love, affection, optimism, and an incredible zest for life.  Ed is survived by his wife, Frances, of nearly 70 years; 3 children, Colleen Blessing (Vince) of Annandale, VA; Dana, who has made his home here and cared for his parents over the past four years; and Nancy Hayes (Glenn) of Milton, WA; 5 grandchildren, and 5 step-grandchildren.Ed had remained physically active and vigorous for nearly his entire life, he suffered from progressive dementia during the last several years.  He passed peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving wife and family members.Following Ed’s wishes, no service will be held. Interment will be at the National Cemetery in Prescott.