Edward L. Boedecker
October 28, 1939 – November 6, 2025
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 12:30 PM at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 4200 Nazareth Road, Kalamazoo, Michigan.
Obituary
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.
Please accept my deepest condolences for the loss of Brother Boedecker. Though words often feel small in the face of such sorrow, the comfort Jehovah provides is immense and enduring. As Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted; he saves those who are crushed in spirit.” What a precious assurance for all who are feeling the ache of this loss. It brings real comfort to know that Jehovah treasures the faith of those who have walked closely with Him. Brother Boedecker’s faith, warmth, and humility reflect qualities that our loving Father will never forget. As Hebrews 6:10 promises, “God is not unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name.” How strengthening it is to know that such loyalty and endurance are safely stored in Jehovah’s memory, awaiting the day when He lovingly calls out and awakens His servant. We all look forward to the fulfillment of Jehovah’s promise at Isaiah 26:19, “Your dead will live. … They will rise up.” What a joyful moment that will be—to see our dear brother again, healthy and full of life, surrounded by those who love him, in a peaceful earth where “death will be no more” (Revelation 21:4). Until that time, may the family and friends of Brother Boedecker draw strength from the hope that unites all of us who long for that day. Please know that your spiritual family worldwide is keeping you in heartfelt prayers, confident that Jehovah’s comfort will sustain and steady you in the days ahead. With warm Christian love, Kevin Guillory, Jr