Edward S. Margerum

SALEM- Edward Stephen Margerum, 83, of Salem, MA, died suddenly at home in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Ed had a keen curiosity about the world around him and would unearth intriguing information about people and events, past and present. His wide range of interests can be exemplified by his own kin, which included both legendary Canadian mountain man “Big Finnan the Buffalo” McDonald and Timothy Webster, chief spy for the Union during the Civil War. These two became the subjects of only a few of the fascinating factual stories that Ed researched and then shared. In fact, he told great stories about many people and events throughout history, digging up curious details that no one else seemed to know or care about. His eagerness to share what he had found created a new universe of friends on Facebook who delighted in reading his newest insights.

Ed was born and raised in Trenton, NJ, the son of Edward Joseph Margerum and Janet (MacPherson) Margerum. He graduated from Fordham University in New York, studying chemistry instead of history because his father insisted he choose a practical major that would guarantee him a job. So, reading about the world, past and present, and sharing whatever he found became his avocation.

As an industrial chemist, working for National Lead Company in Brooklyn, NY, then S.D. Warren in Westbrook, ME, The Carter’s Ink Company in Cambridge, MA and finally Dennison Manufacturing in Framingham MA, he formulated inks, dyes, and paper coatings for industrial and specialized medical uses, earning several patents. His curiosity about his Scottish ancestry led him to learn to play the Highland bagpipes, study Scots Gaelic, visit Scotland many times where he establish long-term friendships, and advocate for Scottish independence.

He is survived by his wife, Eileen (Greaney) Margerum of Salem, his son Peter of South Deerfield, MA, his daughter Christine Harlen and her husband Oliver and son Alexander of Yorkshire, England, and his daughter Alice Margerum and her husband Steven Walton of Hancock, MI.

As a Scottish friend said, on learning of Ed’s death, “Ed was a beacon of decency you could guide yourself by.”

ARRANGEMENTS: At the request of the family all services are private. Assisting the family with the arrangements is O’Donnell – Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq. (at Salem Common) Salem. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution in Ed’s memory to Doctors Without Borders < https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org >, MacMillian Nurses in the UK < https://www.macmillan.org.uk >), or to your local charity of choice. Sharing written remembrances and condolences, during this time will be essential in helping Edward’s family reminisce, celebrate and heal. We encourage you to share your memories of Ed by visiting his eternal tribute at www.odonnellfuneralservice.com

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