Albert (Ted) Theodore Erwin, age 96, died peacefully at home surrounded by his daughter, Judy; son-in-law, Roger; and granddaughter, Cate. Ted was born on April 24, 1926 in Torrington CT to Asa Erwin and Annie Earys Erwin. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Eleanor (Reardon) Erwin, whom he was married to for 40 years; his daughter Geraldine Erwin; son Kevin Frank Erwin; and two granddaughters, Rhoda Erwin and Dawn Erwin. He was also predeceased by his two sisters, Mary (Erwin) Sieller and Katherine (Erwin) North. Along with his father, Mary and "Kitty" took responsibility for his upbringing after their mother died when he was three years-old. Ted is survived by his daughter, Judith Erwin Courtot, of Torrington; his son, Albert Erwin, Jr. of Enfield; and his granddaughter, Catherine Courtot. Ted leaves behind many nieces and nephews. Ted graduated from Torrington High School in 1944 while serving in the Navy; he attending Post College after the war. Ted spent his youth in Torrington, exploring the outdoors and fishing the many streams and rivers with his father. His summers were spent on his aunt and uncles farm in Gaylordsville. Ted enrolled in the Navy at age 17 and served in the Philippines during WWII. After the war, he settled in Thomaston, CT where he raised his family. Ted was employed by Plume and Attwood for twenty years; he volunteered as a Connecticut State Police Auxiliary Officer for 13 years, and he was later employed at Wallace and Barnes in Bristol. Ted retired in 1985. After the death of his wife in 1987, he moved to Volusia County, Florida. Ted enjoyed several years of relaxation and golf as well as many visits from his children and granddaughters. He embraced the community of Orange City, Florida where he developed deep friendships and relationships. In 1992 he began a career in civic service. He was elected to the City Council in 1994 and served as Mayor of Orange City for three terms, 2000 to 2007. "The Big Mayor" as he was referred to in Orange City was well respected and accomplished much to unite the communities of Deltona, DeBary and Orange City. Ted was a finalist for the prestigious honor of being recognized as Florida Mayor of the Year in 2004 and a recipient of numerous awards for his service to the community including The Boy Scouts Eagle Award and the Chamber of Commerce Initiative and Leadership Award. He felt especially honored to have received the Kappa Alpha Psi Community Service Award. In 2009 Ted joined his daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter in Pahoa, Hawaii. One of his best memories was his visit to Pearl Harbor; he also appreciated the spectacular environment of the Big Island and made many visits to the Kilauea Volcano and Kalapana to observe lava flowing into the ocean. Ted returned briefly to Florida in 2012 and then rejoined his daughter and son-in-law when they moved to his home town of Torrington, CT. Ted enjoyed playing cribbage with his daughter and her friend, Beth, reminiscing on his youth during car rides through the Northwest Corner, discussing politics with his son-in-law, and snuggling with the beloved family dog, Toby, and the familys newest canine companion, Tank. The family wishes to thank all of the staff at Charlotte Hungerford Hospital, and the Hartford HealthCare at Home team for providing compassionate care. HHC Hospice Care made it possible for Ted to pass away in the comfort of home. Ted will be remembered as a practical and decisive individual. Each of the chapters of his life helped to transform him into an amazing individual. Ted maintained a sharp mind throughout his life and he lived his life with integrity and commitment. He will be deeply missed by all of those lucky enough to have known him. He will rest in peace beside his wife, Eleanor, at Hillside Cemetery in Thomaston, CT. Military honors and a celebration of his life will take place privately. Those inclined may make a donation to the Hurricane Ian and storm recovery efforts, attention: Mayor Gary Blair, 229 E Graves Avenue, Orange City, FL 32763. Services Private Committal