Edward W. Goetz

Edward proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He attended Ranken Trade School and was an auto mechanic for 35 years, primarily with Elder Cadillac. His second career was as a maintenance foreman with St. Clair County Courthouse for 15 years. Upon retirement, he enjoyed bowling, fishing, and spending time with his family at the lake. Edward belonged to the Masonic Lodge 504 in Fairview Heights and VFW Post 8677 Fairview Heights, Ill. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Harrisburg, Ill.

We feel blessed that Edward spent his last years at the Illinois Veterans Home in Anna, Ill. His fun-loving personality was enjoyed by everyone who knew him. The family would like to thank the staff of the Illinois Veterans Home in Anna for all the love and kindness shown to Edward and his family.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Helen, nee Madden, Goetz; and a brother, Lee Goetz.

Surviving are his wife of 61 years, Betty, nee Staley, Goetz; two daughters, Sandie (Rev. David) Estep of Harrisburg, Ill., and Jackie (David) Charles of Carbondale, IL; grandchildren, Matt Charles, Eric (Mariah) Charles, Jenny (John) Lurkins, John Estep, and Marie (Shawn) Blake; great-grandchildren, Sidney, Gabriel, Etta, Alicea, and Jonathon; and many nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Memorials are appreciated to the Illinois Veterans Home in Anna, Ill., or the VFW Post 8677 Fairview Heights, Ill. Condolences may be expressed online at www.lakeviewfuneralhm.com.

Visitation: Friends may call from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 19, 2011, at Lake View Funeral Home, Fairview Heights, Ill.

Funeral: Memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 19, 2011, at Lake View Funeral Home, Fairview Heights, Ill., with Rev. David Estep officiating.