Edward Lee Boedecker, age 86, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, peacefully fell asleep in death at home on November 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.Edward was born in Monett, Missouri, on October 28, 1939, the son of Ivan William and Mary Naydean Boedecker. He grew up in Flint, Michigan, and graduated from Utley High School in 1957, where he earned the nickname “Little Moose.” Ed loved sharing funny stories from his high school days.

On April 9, 1960, he married Hazel Burks. Together, they built a beautiful life over more than 65 years. They raised six children and were blessed with seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Ed’s family brought him great joy. He cherished every moment spent with them—whether gathered around the table sharing legendary Boedecker stories filled with laughter; or working side by side in the garage with his sons.

Ed had a deep passion for classic cars. He spent countless hours restoring his ’37 Ford and ’47 Chevy, loved attending car shows and museums, and could happily spend an entire day at a swap meet searching for the perfect part. He also cherished his annual deer-hunting trips up north, which produced more stories than deer but endless memories.

A man with a talent for numbers, Ed worked for Weyerhaeuser, Field Container, and Behnke Trucking, and faithfully “moonlighted” during many tax seasons.

He was a humble hardworking man of humor, warmth, and generosity. His quick wit and dry sense of humor could fill a room with laughter. His genuine compassion and willingness to help others planted seeds of love in the hearts of all who knew him.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents Ivan and Naydean Boedecker, brother Ronald Boedecker and brother William “Butch” Boedecker.

Ed is survived by his beloved wife, Hazel; his children Diana (Gary) Laine, Kevin (Wendy) Boedecker, Kristina (Michael) Young, Bill “Chip” (Christine) Boedecker, Kim Solvik, and Cory (Brandi) Boedecker; his grandchildren Dionna Widder, Shivonne Smith, Jennifer Boedecker, Kersten Laine, Rosalee Boedecker, Ivan (Marie) Boedecker, and John Laine; and his great-grandchildren Ellis Widder, Wells Widder, Liberty Villanueva, Rowan Widder, and Justice Villanueva. He is also survived by his sister Linda Gravitt, his brother Timothy (Rhonda) Boedecker, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A devoted man of faith, Ed was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, baptized at the age of 69 in 2008. His relationship with Jehovah God was deeply personal. He held profound respect for the Bible and found comfort in God’s promise to resurrect the dead to a paradise earth where “death will be no more” (Revelation 21:4).

He lived a long, full life, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and laughter that will forever echo in our hearts. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.