Edmund Lee Runge Jr., gifted, charismatic salesperson

Edmund Lee Runge Jr., 70, passed away peacefully Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, in hospice care in Wilmington.

Born Jan. 18, 1955, in Bethesda, Md., he was the beloved son of Ruth Jacqueline Marschalk and Edmund Lee Runge Sr., and the youngest of their children. Edmund was raised in Alexandria, Va., and graduated from Saint Louis School and Groveton High School (now West Potomac High School).

A gifted and charismatic salesperson, Edmund lived and worked in Rehoboth Beach before settling in New Castle, where he spent nearly 40 loving years with his cherished partner, Sharon A. Mercante, who survives him. Together, they shared a deep bond filled with laughter, loyalty, and affection. Edmund also enjoyed bartending for Gallagher & Gallagher catering and spending relaxing days in Dewey Beach with Sharon.

Known for his dry wit, warm presence, and smooth dance moves, Edmund was a man of few words but deep character. He was a lifelong sports enthusiast, both a participant and a fan. He enjoyed fishing with his father and uncle as a child, and played baseball, swam, and joined basketball teams in his youth. In later years, he took up skiing and golf. His love for animals was remarkable; they always seemed to find him in a crowded room.

In addition to Sharon and her large, loving family, whom he embraced as his own, Edmund is survived by his brother, Gerald Wilson Clarke; his sisters, Elinor Lee Vitek, Margaret Lee Christoff (John) and Catherine Ruth Seasonwein (Roger); as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins (first, second, and great), and friends across the country and around the world.

He was predeceased by his sister, Judith Ann Levis; brothers-in-law, Dr. Brantley P. Vitek and Wilson C. Levis; and nephews, Michael John Clarke and Andrew Clarke.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a memorial donation to Faithful Friends, 165 Airport Road, New Castle, DE 19720.

A Celebration of Edmund’s Life will be held at a later date.