Edward Campbell, Jr.

Edward A. Campbell, Jr., age 91, formerly of Kalamazoo, MI passed away early Wednesday morning, February 1, 2017 at Augustana Care Health and Rehabilitation, Apple Valley, Minnesota. He was born on November 30, 1925 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the son of Edward Sr. and Maude (Stimson) Campbell. Most of the summer vacations growing up were spent at either a summer cottage on Gull Lake, MI, or at Silver Creek, outside of Pierce, Idaho, where his father owned and operated a mining operation. Ed graduated from high school in June of 1944, and enlisted in the US Army the very next month. He served his term in New Guinea, the Philippines, and Japan. After returning to Kalamazoo, Ed started college at Western Michigan University, earning a B.S. degree in Economics with a minor in Social Science. After graduation from WMU, he worked at Kalamazoo Vegetable Parchment (KVP), now James River Corp., for 33 years until his retirement. On April 27, 1951, Ed was united in marriage to Marilyn Peters. Both Ed and Marilyn met many of their long-time friends through their church, First United Methodist Church of Kalamazoo, and maintained close ties with them and their families. They often went to dances and listened to the "Big Bands" together. After retirement, Ed and Marilyn spent their winters in Bradenton, FL. In July 2011, Ed moved to Burnsville, MN, to be closer to his son, Tom. Surviving are his only son, Thomas (Susan) Campbell of Burnsville, MN and two grandsons, Ross and Brent (Mackenzie) Campbell. Preceding him in death were his wife of 44 years, Marilyn Campbell on May 6, 1995; and two brothers, Frank and Leslie Campbell. Honoring Ed's wishes, cremation has taken place and services will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions may be directed to Alzheimer's Association . Arrangements were entrusted to Langeland Family Funeral Homes.

A service to celebrate Ed's life will held at 1:00 PM on Friday, May 5, at First United Methodist Church, 212 S. Park Street. Private family inurnment will be in Grand Prairie Cemetery.