On his own terms, and with his loving family by his side, Kenneth W. “Dirt” Edsell passed away in the comfort of his own real-life and self-made race car history museum. He was a true, one of a kind dirt car racing aficionado and if you knew him, you know there will never be another quite like him!
Born in Newark, New Jersey, he lived throughout Middlesex County before settling into Forked River more than 18 years ago. For most of his life he worked as a truck driver, most recently with J & J trucking. He was also an all-knowing mechanic who could “Fix anything but a broken heart.”
He was predeceased by his father Richard Wesley Edsell. He leaves behind his mother, Norma White and two daughters Kendra Martin and Shannon Abbatiello, along with five grandchildren Alissa, Kierstin, Sierra, Kaia & Dane, and four great-grandchildren Cody (aka “Lacey Leadfoot”), Olivia, Owen & Steel. He also leaves behind his brother, Rick Edsell (Linda) and many cousins, nieces and nephews, all whom know who they are and how much he loved each and every one of them.
His sarcastic sense of humor and big heart that was always worn on his sleeve will be dearly missed. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in his name to the charity of your choice.
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