Passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at 6:01 p.m.
Ed was born on November 27, 1939, in Superior, WI, to Edmund and Garnet Geary. He married the love of his life, Beverly Pulley, on December 18, 1981, in Belleville, IL. She survives and resides in Belleville.
Ed is also survived by his step-daughters, Angela Cebulske (residing in Costa Rica), Beth (Cebulske) (husband, John) Weilmuenster of O’Fallon, IL, and Julie (husband, Ryan) Holland of O’Fallon, IL; his grandchildren, Brendan Fetters, Jack McGovern, James Kohlberg, Mackenzie Kohlberg, John Holland, and Joe Holland; and his great-granddaughter, Scarlett Fetters. He also leaves behind his sister-in-law, Diane Geary, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Micheal Geary and Nancy Church.
Ed proudly and selflessly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1961 to 1965. His military service took him to various parts of the world, and he developed a love for travel, particularly to Germany. After his service, Ed continued his career as a Senior Programmer/Analyst for the Department of Defense at Scott Air Force Base.
Ed was also a dedicated student. He earned his Bachelor's degree from Arizona State University (ASU) and went on to earn his Master's degree at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE). His pursuit of knowledge and commitment to his education were lifelong passions, and he applied the discipline and problem-solving skills he honed during his academic career to his work and personal life.
A passionate fan of sports, Ed was an avid supporter of the St. Louis Blues hockey team. He enjoyed following the team and sharing his enthusiasm for the sport.
Above all, Ed cherished his family. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he was their biggest supporter in all their activities and hobbies. He was not only a father figure but also a steadfast source of love and encouragement. His family will forever remember him for his devotion, kindness, and strength.
A visitation for Ed will be held on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Valhalla Gaerdner Holten Funeral Home in Belleville, IL. A funeral service will follow at 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home, with private interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Ed’s name can be made to the National Kidney Association or the Metro East Humane Society, as Ed and Beverly shared a deep love for animals.
Ed will forever be missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him
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