Edward J. Ham, Sr.

Edward J. Ham, Sr., of Flemington, NJ, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 17, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on April 23, 1936, in Newark, NJ, Edward lived a life dedicated to his family, his work, and his many passions.

Edward leaves behind his beloved wife of nearly sixty-nine years, Barbara Ham, who stood by his side through a lifetime filled with love and shared memories. He is also survived by his devoted children: Deborah Whisler and her husband, Randy, Kathleen Graf and her husband Glenn, Edward Ham, Jr. and his wife, Susan, and Michael Ham-Blackmon and his spouse Michael Blackmon-Ham. His legacy continues through his cherished six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, with whom he remained ever close, imparting wisdom, kindness, and the value of hard work.

In his distinguished professional career, Edward served as an engineer specializing in semiconductors, contributing significantly to Westinghouse, RCA, Microwave Semiconductor, and Thompson. His expertise led him to hold three U.S. patents in unrelated scientific fields, a testament to his innovative spirit and dedication to advancing technology.

Outside his professional life, Edward was a remarkably gifted artist and painter, earning numerous state and county awards that celebrated his creative vision and technical skill. His artistry brought beauty to the world and earned him great distinction among his peers. In addition, he enjoyed woodworking, finding joy in shaping and crafting with his hands, a hobby that allowed him to relax and create cherished pieces for his loved ones.

Service to his country was important to Edward, and he proudly served in the United States National Guard for nine years, embodying a spirit of commitment and responsibility to his nation and community.

Edward was predeceased by his sisters, Joan Ruocco and Joyce Szumloz, as well as his brother, Andrew Ham. Though they are gone, their memories lived on in Edward’s stories and his heart.

A Mass will be held to honor Edward’s life on Monday, August 24, 2026, at 10:00 AM in St. Magdalen Church, located at 105 Mine Street, Flemington, NJ 08822 under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ. Interment will follow in St. Magdalen Cemetery, North Main Street, Flemington, NJ. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Edward are invited to attend and join in remembering a man who gave so much of himself to others.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to support the art program at the Senior Center that he enjoyed so much. Checks should be made to “The County of Hunterdon” with art program in the memo and mailed to: Senior Center, PO Box 2900, Flemington, NJ 08822. Alternatively, contributions can be made to St Jude Children's Hospital in his name.

For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.