Edward James Pittinger, Jr., son of Jeanne M. and the late Edward J. Pittinger, died unexpectedly as a result of a traffic accident on Friday, April 1, 2016, near Midland, Texas.Ed was born in Hazleton, PA on February 2, 1958. He attended Holy Trinity German Catholic School and graduated from Bishop Hafey High School. He studied at Luzerne County Community College and transferred to New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering and later became a registered professional engineer. Ed established his home and professional career in Midland. He married the love of his life, Karen Kite, on September 21, 1985 in Hazleton PA.He was known as EJ to his hometown family and friends. He was a thoughtful and extraordinary man, devoted to his family, profoundly spiritual and reverent toward all life. His legacy of honor, generous spirit, charity, love, wisdom and fidelity will endure through his family and all he touched throughout his life.Ed was the owner of EKP Investments and was actively developing this company until the time of death. Ed served as the Senior Vice President and COO of Lynx Operating Company from 2009 until he retired from the company in 2016. Prior to joining Lynx, he held various positions in the petroleum industry.Ed was an active member at St. Ann’s Catholic Church and was a member of the Knights of Columbus.Ed is survived by his wife, Karen; daughters, Dana Ellis and her husband Mark, Laura and Carlye; grandchildren, Nick, Ben, Will, and Brooke Ellis; his mother, Jeanne Pittinger; sister, Elizabeth; brothers, Christopher (Christine Kelley), Timothy (Nicole Maronian); and nieces, Delaney and Bridget; nephews, Sean, Devin, Connor and Zach; mother-in-law Mauryene Kite; brother-in-law, Tom Kite Jr. and his children Stephanie, David and Paul.He is pre-deceased by his father; brother, James; grandmother, Gertrude Reap; aunt, Sister Elizabeth Jane, SCC; uncle, James Reap; father-in-law, Tom Kite Sr.; and sister-in-law, Christy Kite.A celebration of life rosary service will be held at St. Ann’s Catholic Church Sunday, April 10, 2016 at 7:30 pm. A funeral mass will be held at St. Ann’s Catholic Church Monday, April 11, 2016 at 11:00 am and will be officiated by Monsignor Larry Droll.In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Knights of Columbus #3071 P.O. Box 80172 Midland, Texas 79708.Arrangements are under the direction of Nally-Pickle Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com.,
