Edward J. Queal

Edward J. Queal, 73, of Watertown, New York, passed away on July 26, 2024, at Samaritan Medical Center. 

Born on June 7, 1951, in Alexandria Bay, New York, he was the son of Harry L. and Evelyn (Zang) Queal. Edward graduated from Watertown High School in 1969.  Following school he worked for his father, who owned and operated H. L. Queal & Sons Painting and Contractors. After his father’s death in 1983, Edward took over the family business, later renaming it Ed Queal Contracting, which he owned and operated until his passing. In addition to his contracting business, Edward served the Watertown community as a member of the Watertown Fire Department from 1977 until his retirement in 1997. Since his retirement he worked as a maintenance man for Immaculate Conception Church and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church. 

Edward is survived by his beloved wife of 31 years, Theresa Queal; his three children, Dawn Angello of Adams, NY, Cameron J. Queal of Trophy Club, TX, and David J. Queal of Gulfport, Mississippi; his three stepchildren, Paul Miner of Watertown, NY, Timothy Duffany of Watertown, NY, and Erin and Christopher Freeman of Brownville, NY; five grandchildren and three step-grandchildren. He is also survived by his three sisters, Jean Queal of Watertown, NY, Cynthia and Tom Barker of Watertown, NY, and Rowena and David Kramer of Florida; and two sisters-in-law, Sandra Queal and Sandy Queal, both of Watertown, NY; Theresa’s brothers and sisters, Steven and Juanita Duffany of Watertown, NY, Daniel and Chris Duffany of Georgia, Louise Duffany of Virginia, and Darren Duffany of Watertown. 

He is predeceased by two brothers, Robert Queal in 2009 and William Queal in 2004.

He enjoyed camping, canoeing, cross-country skiing, traveling, and spending time with his two beloved dogs, Lily and Bailey. He was passionate about painting, remodeling, repairing and tinkering with things. 

He held a deep appreciation and respect for his retired firefighter brothers. He was a parishioner of Immaculate Conception Church and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church. Edward was a very active member and he served as a Eucharistic minister and as an usher. 

Arrangements are with the Hart & Bruce Funeral Home, Watertown. 

The family will receive friends at the Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church on Thursday, August 8th from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., a Funeral Mass will follow at 11 a.m. at the church. Burial will be held in Glenwood Cemetery. 

Please consider making a donation to raise funds to cover funeral expenses.  Donations can be made online at www.hartandbrucefh.com, where online condolences may also be left. 

Edward will forever be remembered for his dedication to his family, his community, and his church.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.