Edward D. Wilhelm

Edward D. Wilhelm, known to many as Eddie, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on December 11, 2025, at the age of 80. He died after a year-long, valiant battle with neuroendocrine cancer (NEC). Eddie was born on May 20, 1945, in Troy, New York, to Lawrence and Mary Wilhelm. He graduated from Lansingburgh High School in 1965 and later earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Northwood University in 1996 Eddie is survived by his wife, Christine Wilhelm, the love of his life; his daughters, Heidi, Elke, Gretchen, and Ingrid; his stepchildren, Keith and Debbie; and his grandchildren, Calogero, Carly, Michael, Isabella, Stella, Conrad, Maxwell, Gerard, Cameron, and Anna. his brother, Bernie Wilhelm; He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Mary Wilhelm, as well as, Marilyn Benz and Larry Wilhelm. A skilled Tool and Die Maker, Eddie spent his 42-year career with Ford Motor Company. He was a proud member of UAW Local 845 and dedicated many years to service through the Fire Brigade and Search & Rescue, where he served for 20 years. "He was also active in civic life as a member of the Election Committee, a board member at Wedgewood Village and was the proud member of the pool-boy club." Eddie was a man of great passion and unmistakable zeal for life. He had a gift for making each day feel grander and for making others feel truly seen and loved. He possessed a knack for turning even the smallest moments into something special. Eddie’s passion showed through his animated storytelling and the way he spoke with pride and enthusiasm about the things he loved: His family, friends, politics, history and his Saturday college football. His zest for life was evident in his love and adventures with his beloved wife. It took him to places like London, Paris and our National Parks; He also had a fondness for simple joys in life like pizza, Pepsi and banana splits. And of course, his favorite restaurants, like Ted’s Fish Fry, Bodi’s, and Campari’s, all of which he treated as occasions to be celebrated. Eddie’s deep care, and generosity towards others extended well beyond words. He went out of his way to connect with people, striking up conversations with strangers in supermarket lines, stocking up on chocolates for healthcare workers, and always looking out for the safety of those he loved. His kindness reached even animals; he kept his coat pockets lined with dog treats to share with every dog he met and made it a point to feed the squirrels, always. He was a one of a kind, open-armed, open hearted, kind of man. These are just a few of the many ways Eddie embodied passion, zeal, love, and a profound care for the world around him. Visitation on Friday, January 16th, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., with a service at 11:30 a.m., at Vermeulen–Sajewski Funeral Home, 46401 Ann Arbor Road West, Plymouth, Michigan 48170. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, or a tree may be planted in memory of Eddie. The family invites friends and loved ones to share a photograph or memory of Eddie on the Tribute Wall at www.vermeulenfh.com, where condolences may be shared, candles lit, videos viewed, and service directions found. To share a memory, please use the Share a Memory tab on this web page.

Edward D. Wilhelm

May 20, 1945 - December 11, 2025