Edward James Wegner

Born November 28, 1953 in Minneapolis, Minnesota to William Charles and Agnes Theresa (Egan) Wegner.

Ed married Beth Ann Franko on October 8, 1983 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Beth and Ed shared over 40 years of fun wilderness adventures in Alaska, Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Grand Canyon, and camping trips exploring the beauty of Mother Earth. Ed also enjoyed his travels in Europe and Canada.

Also surviving are his three sons, Samuel Wegner, Joseph Wegner and Thomas Wegner. Four siblings, Paul Wegner, Robert Wegner, Theresa Cosgrove and James Wegner; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He had many wonderful friends that were like extended family. He and his best friend, Linda Ready, were always planning hunting/nature adventures in Wyoming and Colorado. Ed loved children and his wide extended family, and he loved attending family reunions. He was happiest playing games, sharing jokes and stories, and photographing all the happy events. He loved teaching children about the great outdoors. He was always happy to lend a helping hand in a wide variety of community garden projects to teach the next generation how to care for our beautiful Mother Earth. He was a friend to the world.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings, William, Ann and Mary Sue.

Edward worked for Caterpillar as a Quality Engineer for many years before retiring. He was a member of American Society for Quality (ASQ) attaining Six Sigma Black Belt. He was previously employed by PTC Alliance, Strattec, Ray-o-Vac, Farnam Sealing Systems and Goetze/Federal Mogul Auto Parts during his engineering career.

Ed was a graduate of University of Wisconsin Stout earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Manufacturing Engineering in 1988.

Ed was a passionate advocate for our beautiful planet and was known for his beautiful flower gardens, especially in the Spring when the rainbow of tulips, daffodils, hyacinth, crocus, and lilies were putting on a show. He also planted for wildlife by planting a wide variety of flowers for bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, song birds, and squirrels who delighted in the bounty of his garden.

Ed loved animals and rescued so many dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, mice/gerbils, and even a hedgehog and lizard. He was always an advocate for the voiceless and was a true Animal Rescue Dad. His beloved Alaskan Malamute, Jetta, misses her daddy.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Cremation has been accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Ed’s ashes will be spread in many of his favorite places in nature.

To express condolences online visit, www.preston-hanley.com