Edward Lewis Michaels

Edward "Eddie" Michaels, 65, died peacefully on July 28, 2025, with his youngest daughter, Amy, beside him. Ed was born on December 15, 1959, at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Virginia, to Henry and Peggy Michaels. He graduated from Raytown High School in 1978 and pursued a career in welding and fabrication. He married Dana Copple on July 1, 1984. He worked for Hobart Refrigeration for 23 years, followed by Advanced Welding, up until his retirement in 2023. He had an incredible work ethic that was driven by his calling to support and provide for his family.

The only thing stronger than his work ethic was his love for his four daughters. His daughters remember him as strong but gentle, hardworking but present, and a man of few words who loved to share stories. Ed had a wild spirit and loved to ride motorcycles, but he knew to wear a helmet. He never turned down the opportunity to show his ornery side by pulling silly pranks—always with the intention of making someone smile.

He was also incredibly kind and would go out of his way to help someone in need. One of his most admirable qualities was how he took time to get to know the homeless people along his route to and from work. Ed made sure to carry food with him on his way home—even if that meant eating only half of his lunch so he could share the other half. He didn’t do it for praise or recognition, but purely out of the kindness of his heart.

One of Ed’s favorite pastimes was spending time at the river in search of the next best rock or piece of driftwood to add to his ever-growing collection. His absence has left a hole in our hearts, but we are full of love because we were loved by him.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Peggy Michaels, and his daughter, Brandi Gay.

Ed is survived by his father, Henry Michaels; his brother, Paul Michaels (Lori); his sister, Teresa Oliver; and his daughters, Mandi Michaels, Arlene Stewart (Chris), and Amy Ballew (Alyssa). He is also survived by his grandchildren: Dylan Marquis, Andrew Gay, Sophia Stewart, Bennett Stewart, Reese Michaels, and his great-grandson, Ace Marquis.

Visitation will be held at 10:00am, with Mass at 12:00pm and a luncheon to follow, on August 16 at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 9020 E 51st Terrace, Kansas City, Missouri, 64133. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ed’s legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you perform a random act of kindness for someone who may need it.

The family would like to thank the team at NorthCare Hospice for providing incredible love and care to Ed in his final days. Their generosity will not be forgotten.