Ed loved the outdoors; he often spent time at the lake hiking or in a canoe or a kayak to fish, observe wildlife, or simply be outside. He enjoyed birdwatching and always had feeders set up in his backyard. He also enjoyed traveling in any sense; by plane, highway or his motorcycle, and he was known to take the scenic route at any opportunity. He also enjoyed photography and often took pictures of flowers, wildlife, sunrises and sunsets, or the nearest thunderstorm he was chasing. He had an interest and guns and was committed to practicing his shooting skills regularly for recreation as well as personal defense. Ed also had a passion for scuba diving and became an Assistant Instructor through PADI. He continued to scuba dive even after his retirement and was faithful in planning at least one scuba getaway every year. He always said he felt the most calm and at peace when he was in the water.
He is survived by his daughter Charity Regennitter of Lincoln, NE, four sisters: Peggy Kunkel of Onawa, IA; Shari Petersen of Anita, IA; Suz Chisholm of Hotchkiss, CO; and Patti Smith and her husband, Larry, of Lamoni, IA, seven nieces and nephews: Jason Petersen of Bemidji, MN; Justin Petersen and his wife Sarah of McCune, KS; Joshua Riddle and his wife Marlene of FL; Joseph Chisholm and his partner Monica of CO; Ethan Smith and his wife Mariah of Lamoni, IA; Emma Coulthard and her husband Raphael of Lamoni, IA; and Eli Smith and his wife Megan of Lamoni, IA, as well as 16 grandnieces and grandnephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorial services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 22, 2018 at the Metz Chapel in York. Ed has been cremated so there will be no viewing or visitation. Memorials may be directed to his family for later designation.