“Life is short. You have to do something positive while you are here. Make sure you enjoy it, and you will make a difference.” Edward Montague Jr. carried this belief throughout his remarkable 87 years, demonstrating a profound commitment to making the world a better place. Ed was passionate about enjoying life, and he also dedicated himself to various causes that had a positive impact on his community and beyond. His tireless efforts and unwavering spirit have inspired countless individuals.
Ed was born in Newark, Delaware, in 1937. His love for waterfowl began at the age of 13, when he started hunting in the tidal marshes of the Chesapeake Bay. He married his beloved Carol in 1959, and together they built a wonderful family by adopting three children. Ed’s deep love for his family, friends, and the outdoors formed the essential foundation of his life.
Ed served in various roles at the local, state, and national levels for Ducks Unlimited. He demonstrated his personal commitment as a DU Grand Slam Life Sponsor, a designation earned by becoming a Life Sponsor of all three Ducks Unlimited organizations: Ducks Unlimited Inc., Ducks Unlimited Canada, and Ducks Unlimited de México. He was instrumental in establishing the Delaware Ducks Unlimited specialty license plate program and spearheaded Delaware’s annual Greenwing event.
In 1990, Ed pioneered an innovative program that opened new funding sources for DU’s conservation mission. After a friend introduced him to the idea of allowing donors to bequeath money to nonprofit organizations through their wills, he proposed a new estate planning concept. He helped shape the program and even gave it the name we know today: The Feather Society. This program has grown into a pivotal funding source for DU, with more than $500 million pledged to further DU’s mission.
Ed made a significant impact on wetlands and waterfowl through his innovative thinking, dedication to conservation, and lifelong passion for the outdoors. The DU family, along with many others whose lives he touched, are forever grateful.
