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Schools

Longtime Music Patron Laid to Rest

Family and friends gather at Arcadia High School to share stories about Edwin "Ed" Schreiner

Hundreds gathered at on Sunday to honor music program patron, Edwin “Ed” Schreiner, who passed away Jan. 21 following a short battle with cancer. 

The service celebrated Schreiner’s civic involvement, including his work as an reserve officer, his volunteer efforts with the Pasadena Tournament of Roses and his extensive support of Arcadia High School's music program.

Attendees consisted of Schreiner's family and friends, Police Department representatives, and AHS staff, students, parents and alumni. Tables lined along the wall sported posters with photos of Schreiner, along with awards and accolades he received.

The ceremony began with a flag salute by the Holy Angels Troop 104 and a blessing by leaders of the Arizona-based White Mountain Apache tribe. For years, Schreiner hand-delivered items donated by the AHS community to the tribe. He ultimately developed a bond with the tribe's members, who welcomed him into their inner circle, sharing special ceremonies and cultural traditions with him.

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Following the blessing, Mike Riffey, a past president of the Tournament of Roses, spoke. Schreiner helped light up the cities of Arcadia, Pasadena and South Pasadena with his work on those cities' Rose Parade floats, Riffey said.

“Ed was a special guy, a friend to all who came in contact with him. The tournament of Roses continues to thank him for his service and he will be missed by all."

Fred Stevens, president of the Music Club, took the stage next, describing Schreiner as passionate and fun-loving, with a heartwarming smile. Schreiner was “like a marshmallow on a campfire: Crusty on the outside but inside soft and sweet,” Stevens said.

He closed his remarks with lyrics from the musical "Wicked."

“Who can say if I've been changed for the better? I do believe I have been changed for the better… Because I knew you I have been changed for good."

Following a performance by the AHS Marching Band's percussion section, Assistant Band Director Kevin Sherrill spoke of Schreiner’s dedication, generosity and impact on students.

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Schreiner put his mark on the band's music camp and field shows. He faithfully attended numerous performances, even traveling to Florida, Ohio and Washington, D.C. to support the band.

Arcadia High School Principal concluded the program by thanking Schreiner’s family for sharing someone who was “a great man, a great father and a great husband.”

“Continue to celebrate and remember Ed, who represented all that is good about Arcadia,” Vannasdall said.

Schreiner is survived by his wife Terry; his daughters Anne, Sandra, Carol and Sarah; his granddaughters Deanna, Samantha and Sara Gelfand; and his sister Deborah Lee Schmidt.

A scholarship has been created under his name and donations can be made to Arcadia High School.


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