Ed Thierolf, 74

Ed Thierolf, 74, husband of Brenda Semach, passed away peacefully Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at Pennsburg Manor. Born in Chalfont, PA, he was the son of the late Everett Norman and Anne (Formansky) Thierolf. Ed was an accomplished guitar player, especially the electric guitar, playing professionally for years and playing not only the guitar, but several other instruments as well. He was a play-by-ear musician, all self-taught. After retirement from Superior Tube, he worked part-time at Freed’s Supermarket. Ed was an avid Philadelphia sports fan, cheering on the Flyers and Phillies, and “bled green” when it came to the Philadelphia Eagles. He was a member of the Falkner Swamp United Church of Christ, and was a member of their church choir, they’re number one bongo player.

In addition to his wife Brenda Semach, Ed is survived by one stepson, Jacob Semach, husband of Madison; one grandchild, Audrey Semach; two brothers, Thomas Thierolf and Lawrence Thierolf, husband of Sandy. Nephews Tyler Thierolf and Troy Thierolf, and one niece, Tory Laubach.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 10 – 10:45 AM at Falkner Swamp Church, 2077 Swamp Pike, Gilbertsville, PA 19525, followed by a memorial service at 11 AM. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ed’s memory to Falkner Swamp Church, 2077 Swamp Pike, Gilbertsville, PA 19525.

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All he ever wanted to do was play guitar. I'm glad that he got to do his wishes. The world is less without him.

~ Marshall Stretch Rockville, VA
3/30/2025 9:34:31 AM

This week at a mini class reunion I learned of Ed’s passing. That was sad news. Ed or Eddie, as I always knew him, was kind of a big brother to me through grade school. He first caught my attention in first grade when we were all asked to count as high as we could. Mrs Gerhart had to stop Eddie because he was on his way to a million. He was the biggest and strongest all through grade school. By junior high he always seemed to be on the edge of current trends. On the school bus besides playfully bouncing me off the seats and calling me Bobby Bounceback, he held impromptu classes on music, switchblades, movies, tv shows, firecrackers, brass knuckles, fashion, Soupy Sales and whatever else may have been in the news. Unfortunately our paths diverged in high school but I clearly remember his performance our senior year at the Combo Conflict. His guitar playing was great and I can still see him belting out “scuse me while I kiss the sky” Wah wah wong!??
All those years ago he was a good friend, I always hoped to meet up with him again. We will all miss Eddie.

~ Bob Schmieder
3/23/2025 5:04:04 PM

Dear Brenda,
I just learned about Ed’s passing, my sincere condolences to you and your family. You do not know me, but Ed and I went through high school together and later in the mid seventies I was involved with his band Surkel.
I also worked with Ed’s father in Chalfont.
Little did I know that Ed was at Pennsburg Manor I would have liked to have seen him, small world, I live near there.
Please pass along my sympathy to Tom Larry as well.

~ Ron Tomes
3/21/2025 6:24:06 PM

Dear Brenda,

I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Ed. I know how much he meant to you and the joy he brought into your life. Please remember that you are not alone during this difficult time; we are here for you if you need anything.

Sending you love and strength,

The Davis Family

~ Mike Davis
2/8/2025 10:55:44 AM

My heartfelt condolences to Brenda and family and to his brothers Larry and Tom, my cousins, and family. I will fondly remember all the good times we had growing up and living next door to each other. I will miss you cuz. Love, Chris

~ Christine Karaba Kaylor Christmas, FL
1/26/2025 7:01:56 PM

Brenda and Jake and family:

Alan and I are so sorry to hear about Ed's passing. Although we didn't know him, we are sure he was a good man. May he rest in peace.

Alan and Deb Bingham

~ Alan and Deb Bingham Pottstown, PA
1/22/2025 2:17:45 PM

Ed we in California will miss you. Brenda our hearts and love are with you in Pennsylvania. Much love. Linda and Martin

~ Linda Barbod
1/20/2025 4:04:30 PM

A good friend/band mate (15 years with Midnight Station)who taught me tons about music. I will miss him.

~ Tom Nevells Quakertown, PA
1/20/2025 2:35:33 PM

Even though Ed came to us later in life, he felt like family. His loving heart and youthful spirit brought so much joy to our family and we are grateful for the love that he shared with Brenda. Prayers and love to the family, may he rest in peace.

~ Melissa Swenk Bechtelsville, PA
1/20/2025 1:45:17 PM

Dear Brenda, Jake & Family, Ed was a wonderful man who brightened everyone's spirits in our Congregation. I will miss his cheery smile and also participation in Fastnacht Day and so much more. I know that you will too.

~ Sue Dickey Ambler, PA
1/20/2025 1:00:50 PM

Ed was my first cousin and I will miss him

~ Frederick Mcmartin
1/20/2025 12:55:15 PM

Brenda, I am so very sorry for your loss.

~ Sharleen Sensenig Ambler, PA
1/20/2025 12:47:55 PM

Brenda , we are so sorry for your loss. We know how much you loved Ed. Please take care, Sue and Bob Moyer

~ Sue Boyertown, Pa
1/20/2025 12:44:12 PM

Brenda. Very sorry to hear that your husband passed away.My thoughts and prayers are with you

~ Eva Heilner Pottstown, PA
1/20/2025 12:18:02 PM