Edward E. Kivari Sr.

ALLEGANY — Edward E. Kivari Sr., 91, died peacefully Wednesday (Aug. 5, 2026) in Allegany. He previously resided in Skaneateles and Englewood, Fla.

He was born in Mexico (N.Y.) on Nov. 25, 1934, to Eric and Jennie Keturi Kivari and grew up in Mattydale.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Syracuse University and proudly served in the U.S. Army in Fairbanks, Alaska.

His professional career included work as an engineer at General Electric, where he was part of the Apollo Space Program in the 1960s in Florida; serving as director of marketing of CNY Blue Cross Blue Shield in the 1970s; then working in the field of addiction and recovery services, thereafter, helping to provide support and recover services in Central New York.

Ed was an avid golfer and tennis player, who enjoyed traveling and living abroad with his wife, Diane. He found happiness in the company of his dogs, Louis and Timber, and for many years, as a friend of Bill W’s.

Ed is survived by his wife of 50 years, Diane; his five children, Edward Jr. (Sophia) of Wilbraham, Mass., Kristine (Craig Zuckerman) of Olean, Janet (John O’Rourke) of Ellicottville, John (Jacqueline) of East Aurora and James (Anne) of Olean; 11 grandchildren, Molly, Shannon and Jack O’Rourke, Alexandra and Connor Kivari, Sydney Zuckerman, George and Daniel Kivari, and Christian, Katriana and Nicholas Kivari; as well as four great-grandsons, Aidan, Matti, John Patrick and Arlo. Ed is further survived by his sisters, Ruth Kohl and Mary Butler; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Jean Trexler; and his infant son, Paul.

The family is overwhelmed with gratitude for the care and support provided by his dedicated team at Home Care & Hospice and his devoted private caregivers, all who made it possible for him to be comfortable at home these last months. The family is additionally grateful to The Field of Dreams Assisted Living in Allegany, for reuniting Ed with Diane in his last weeks of life.

A private family service will be held.