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Edward Nitzel Obituary
56, of Glendale, AZ. Following a brave and courageous battle with cancer, Ed passed into the hands of our Lord on July 12, 2009. He was born to Edward Sr. and Marilyn Nitzel in Hackensack, NJ, and resided in Teaneck, NJ, for 23 years. He and his wife, Janet, settled in Glendale in 1979. Spending a good portion of his life as a truck driver, Ed had the pleasure of indulging his free spirit in traveling throughout the country. His outgoing and friendly nature made him many friends along the way. Prior to his illness, he was most recently employed by the University of Arizona Medical School. Ed's love for life and always seeking to learn and experience new things was immeasurable. Whether it be the freedom of his motorcycle rides, driving his treasured car, acting as unofficial photographer for his son's band, or taking on the challenge of a college chemistry course with his daughter so she could graduate (he got an A!), there was passion in everything he attempted. These are the qualities that will be missed by his family and friends. His past roads may have been rocky at times, especially in recent months, but were always approached with humor and conviction of spirit. We can be comforted to know his spirit will always remain with us and look back and smile at the good times of days gone past. May God continue to hold him in the palm of His hand. Ed is survived by his beloved wife and soul mate of 35 years, Janet, adoring children Jennifer Stephens (Mikey) and Jason Nitzel (Keirstin), his pride and joy, grandson Jason Anthony "LJ", and step-grandchildren, Scott, Alica and Katelyn; loving parents Edward Sr. and Marilyn Nitzel; sisters Laura Brovich, Dawn Paige and Carla Whittington, and brother Tom Nitzel, and many nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2009, at 2:00 pm at Community Church of Joy, 21000 N. 75th Avenue, Glendale, AZ. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley.
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Memories and Condolences
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Nancy
July 13, 2025
Hi Ed. T's been 16 years sunce you went to fly with yhe eagles. Miss you every day. I know you hear me talking to you. What annamazing friendship we shared. So many great times. Arkand Inwere just remembering the time you were driving through ABQ and youheard me on the radio. You called around and found me at Marks's sister's house. Had a few Scoresbys that night! Love you always.
Janet Nitzel
July 12, 2025
I can´t believe it´s been 16 years. There were no raiys from the sun this morning at sunrise, but there were beautiful and peaceful illuminations through the clouds. Love and miss you always.
Carla
August 11, 2024
WTH.. ? I'm not sure what's going on other then my head is not right !! Lots going on for me , with having to ADULT and navigate this world by myself a d being sick like I am , all I can say is please please please keep me safe and alive and thriving thru my transplant ordeal. Make it happen. Pretty quick sou don't have to be down with sickness or dialysis!!
I miss you ans the rest of the family I feels alone and scared senseless, but I'm taking your advice and I hear very often , putting on my big girl panties ( ain't that the truth) and dealing with it!!
I love n miss you now tomorrow and always your "lil" sister Carla
Janet Nitzel
July 12, 2024
Watched the sunrise this morning, very pretty, but not spectacular, you´ll have to work on that! You´d be happy to know that the kids always take care of me when I need something, you left them good instructions 15 years gone is a long time, but sometimes it just seems like yesterday. I hope you enjoy Nancy`s post on the backgammon story, I´m sure that will bring a smile to your face. Love and miss you forever.
Jan
Nancy Klukas
July 11, 2024
Mark and I were just discussing the backgammon board story. Such a classic Ed, Jan, and Nance story. Hard to believe you've been gone 15 years. I love and miss you, my friend. Until I see you on the other side Nance
Janet Nitzel
July 12, 2023
Watched the sunrise for you today as I always do on this day. Hard to believe 14 years have passed since you were with us. Have had a few challenges this past year and I want to thank you for watching over us and keeping us safe:) Love and miss you now and forever.
Jan
Nancy Klukas
July 12, 2023
Well Ed, it's been 14 years since you earned your wings. I think of you every time I hear Running on Empty by Jackson Browne. I will always remember a special day we sang that together in my blue car. You were always my 2nd best friend (Shorty always #1) and I love you still. See you on the other side. Love, Nance
Carla
July 13, 2022
I started writing this hours ago and then got side tracked or into my thoughts way to deep , and for got to hit post . This is the new norm for my life , i'm not functioning all that well , Sorry ...anyways ,
Where has the time gone 13 years just like that!!
I'm getting pretty lonely down here without everyone. I'm sure you were there to greet Bob when he arrived and I'm glad he had familiar faces at the gate to meet him and show him the ropes . I'd much rather he be here with me still but I guess that is not my call. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of you in some way or another or tell someone about my big brother. Thanks for those memories I cherish them deeply. Thanks for looking down on who is left here on earth and for guiding us thru this journey until we are called home . Keep up the good work from above. with all my love and thoughts , I miss you !
Your "lil" sister . Carla
Janet Nitzel
July 12, 2021
Can't believe it's been 12 years, seems like yesterday sometimes. Watched the sunrise this morning as I've done every year since you've passed. Not too spectacular this year, so you'll have to work on that!
Too hot for the commemorative drive, so I revved the engine for you:-) Will play some of your favorite tunes and posted a pic I think you'd like.
Miss you more and more each day, love you always.
Jan
Carla Nitzel Whittington
November 7, 2020
I just came across this and thought it was apropos, ..... I miss you!
Carla
July 12, 2020
Another year gone by way to fast! Its now been 11 years still hard to believe your gone but in a way thankful, its a harsh cruel sick and scary world we are living in now. With all that's going on with this pandemic and politics it like a doggie eat dog world ans we all have milk bone underwear on !! Haha.. Im asking you to keep our family here on earth safe from all evil and sickness and again with the Good Lords help guide us in the right and safe direction.
Missing you is no easier today then it was when you left us .. I still reach for the phone to call you and then get sad when I realize your not going to answer! I MISS YOU MORE TODAY BUT LESS THEN TOMORROW! Your little sister Carla.xo
CARLA WHITTINGTON
October 25, 2019
Hey big brother,
Here to wish you a HAPPY 67th ( ? ) BIRTHDAY IN HEAVEN... Been rather quiet down here, which after the last 5 years I'm thankful for the peace.
Thanks for keeping watch over the family and helping do the GOOD LORDS work from above. GREAT JOB! HUGS n KISSES for You, Mom, DAD, GRANDMA, JACK and RYAN and all the other family members that are with you up there. Oh how I miss you all so much,
LOVE n MISS YOU today tomorrow and always.
Your little (not so much anymore) sister,
Carla
Happy 45th anniversary!
Janet Nitzel
August 24, 2019
Happy 45th anniversary Ed! Though youre only here in spirit, celebrated for us Roses for us, your favorite dinner, and some great tunes from MB, BF and GD! No ride today since battery was dead as I havent driven in awhile, will fix that on Monday. But did buy a lottery ticket so wish me luck!
Love always and forever ,
Me
CARLA WHITTINGTON
July 15, 2019
10 years hard to believe ...... where has it gone? I miss you every day !! i miss hanging out and going to the swap meet or taking a ride on you motorcycle!! !! Our brother tried to get me on his bike last month....... but as you know the only person i ever road with was you !! i think I will keep it that way!!
Your always in my thoughts and prayers, love you now forever and always!!
Janet Nitzel
July 12, 2019
Beautiful sunrise this morning along with the daily hummingbird visit:) No ride today, too darn hot, but will make up for it! Hard to believe it's been 10 years, you're in my thoughts each and every day. We miss you.
Love always and forever,
Me
Nancy Klukas
October 25, 2018
Happy belated Birthday in heaven Ed. I still miss you so much, but you were in Vegas with us last July at the Smith Center rocking out to Jackson Browne. That was great. We toasted you for days! Love you my friend. See you on the other side.
Janet Nitzel
October 24, 2018
Happy Birthday Ed! Miss you, as always. Would like to say I celebrated appropriately, but had to work, so no ride today, but will make up for it kids, family and friends I know are raising a glass in your honor. Got to meet Hector and Roberta last weekend while they were out, so nice to meet friends from your trucking days, 25 years had passed, glad I kept the same phone number! Love and miss you and always in my heart
Nancy Klukas
July 15, 2018
Hi Ed. I miss you so much. We celebrated in your honor this week. Jan, Mark, Scott, and I spent the 12th together in Vegas and raised several glasses and toasted in your honor. But you know that. Next day Jan, Mark and I saw Jackson Browne perform at the Smith Center. We cried at Running on Empty, The Load Out and Stay.
You and I had such a wonderful friendship that is so rare and special. Miss you and love you always! See you on the other side.
Carla Whittington
July 12, 2018
Hard to believe its been 9 years and its still no easier!! Miss you more then ever !!! Keep up the Lords work and watch over us from above.. Love and miss you more then anyone knows today tomorrow and forever!
October 24, 2017
Wish you were here so we could celebrate your 65th together! We raised a glass in your honor. Keeping you close in our hearts until we are all together again. Love ya
Janet Nitzel
August 24, 2017
Happy anniversary Ed! Would've be 43 years today. Didn't take a ride today, just too darn hot. But I am making your favorite dinner, with a little angel food cake for dessert, thought it appropriate:) Love you always, Me
CARLA WHITTINGTON
October 24, 2016
Happy birthday big brother....!! Miss You more then words could say!!!
Bob Nelson
July 14, 2016
You know I was just thinking about Eddie the other day. Thinking about all the kids I grew up with in the neighborhood and hung out with in grammar school. I can still picture knocking on your front door. Before he passed away I was hoping to see him one day at one of our high school reunions because I knew he wanted to go. I will see him in heaven one of these days instead. So sorry for your loss..
2016
Janet Nitzel
July 13, 2016
Watched the sun rise in your memory yesterday as I do each year and the hummingbird captured in this year's memory photo added a special perspective.
Then took a ride to Camp Verde to commerate one of our last road trips. Moody Blues on the way up Clapton on the way back. The car handled perfectly and my driving was up to par for you! Kids agenda included a captain and coke and tunes you were fond of.
Realized I didn't share the 2015 activities in your memory. Took a sunrise balloon ride which I think you would have enjoyed and captured the sunrise as we as we ascended above the mountain.
Hard to believe it's been 7 years now that your gone. But as each year passes I will continue to be there for those sunrises and whatever the day may hold.
Love and miss you always
Carla Whittington
July 12, 2016
Hey Big Brother,
THANKS for the visit when I came home from the hospital much appreciated!!! Just wanted to let know there is not a day that goes by that I don't think of you in some way or another!! I love and miss you more then anyone knows and that will NEVER GO AWAY. Love your Lil (or not so lil sister Carla). xo
Nancy Klukas
September 25, 2015
I had better amend my entry for earlier today. I always get September and October birthdays mixed up....except of course my own and Erica's. But everything else is true. Love you!
Nancy Klukas
September 25, 2015
I am having a personal concert with Jackson Browne and thinking about you. I forgot yesterday was your Birthday, but I was always a day late. I miss you always, my dear friend. Don't worry, I am taking care of Shorty as best I can for you! Love you forever, Nance
Janet Nitzel
July 12, 2014
Odie and I took a ride for you today. Love and miss you, always and forever.
Me
Carla Whittington
July 12, 2014
Hey Big Brother this on the anniversary of your passing I again ask when does MISSING YOU get any easier? I cant tell you how many times I've REALLY needed to talk to you and find myself picking up the phone only to put it down realizing your not going to answer, at least not that way!!! :-) As always I'm missing you and your big brother attitude more then anyone will ever know!! KEEP up watching over the family its some comfort knowing your up there. Love your lil sis
Carla
10242013 WT
Janet Nitzel
October 24, 2013
Hey Ed, a laid back celebration of your birthday. Odie and I took a ride, as usual, tunes to go along, a beautiful day. Saw ultrasound pics of your new grandson to be this morning..started the day off right:) Talked to your brother, voice alone made me smile, he's celebrating for you! Happy birthday:)
Love and miss you,
Jan
Carla Whittington
October 24, 2013
Hey Big Brother,
It's been an emotional week as you know with the passing of Bob's birth mom after a short battle...... with YUP CANCER! GOSH that disease SUCKS! 1 By 1 it is picking off everyone I love!
I prayed to You mom and the rest of the family that You all would meet my mother in law at the gates show Her around and take her where she needed to be. I hope you did just that.
PLEASE have a drink or whatever it is you do up there (and 1 for me ) in honor of you BIRTHDAY and know in your heart I love and miss you more then words can say!
1 MORE TIME HAPPY BIRTHDAY BIG BROTHER!
Janet Nitzel
July 12, 2013
Can't believe it's 4 years already,this past week was more surreal than ever. Me and Odie took our yearly trek with the vette up to the White Tanks today, played some Cream and GD for you and spread some flower seeds (picked up a few rocks for you too:), then went to see Dad. Jen and baby bump stopped by and Nate will be having a C&C for you. Jay and family took a day trip to Flag supplied with flower seeds for all to toss along the way. I miss you more than ever.
Love always,
Jan
Carla whittingtng
July 12, 2013
Weighing heavy on my mind, wishing as always that you were here! MISS YOU MORE THEN ANYONE COULD EVER KNOW LOVE YA NOW FOREVER AND ALWAYS!
Janet Nitzel
October 25, 2012
Was busy celebrating your 60th yesterday...a great day and recap I think you'll like. Took a drive to the White Tanks - me, Odie and Blind Faith... drove the car to make you proud! Had a beer with Dad, Jen/Nate had a tribute with Captain and coke (pic), Jay/Keirstin/Katie went to a haunted house, and your grandsons and I had a great evening making "boo-berry" muffins for your bday! And, of course, it wouldn't be complete without the big guy sitting in Grandpa's chair (his favorite!) Happy 60th Ed...love you always:)
Jan
Carla Whittington
October 24, 2012
Hey Big Brother.... you've been on my mind alot so I thought I'd send a BIG HAPPY 60th BIRTHDAY to you. PARTY IN HEAVEN tonight!
I miss you tons and wish you were still here I miss our Big Bro Lil Sis talks and just hangin out. Xoxo
July 13, 2012
It's hard to pick a single day to remember someone that was such an integral part of your life, your family. You are never more than a thought away. Today and everyday we miss you. Love, Dawn
July 12, 2012
The kids and I will all be giving you a shout out today and playing your favorite tunes... I know you'll be smiling down on us, as we will up at you. Beautiful sunrise this morning. Love you always.
Jan
July 8, 2012
still thinking of you all ,how time has gone by please be happy with the thoughts of love in youe hearts love tootsie
Janet Nitzel
October 24, 2011
Just to clarify, Ed, this is a birthday candle - to celebrate your 59th. Took the car for a spin, cranked the stereo, had a beer with Dad, and the kids are playing some of your favorite tunes. A simple celebration, but one you would have enjoyed and carrying on in the positive spirit you would have wanted.
Love you forever,
Jan
PS - to whoever reinstated the guest book, a sincere thank you
Carla Whittington
July 14, 2010
Hey big brother, I think my head and eyes are clear enough for me to write, This last year has been a long year to say the least. Again I think to myself how can losing someone hurt so much?? (BTW you still haven't given me an answer to that)
I think of you everyday one way or another.I'm sure you greeted Les (Bobs dad)and Kim when they arrived at the gates this past year and showed them the ropes.
Bob sent me on a journey the beginning of the year starting with your memorial service in NJ and it ended in Montana, one of your most favorite places in the country while on the road..... I now know why you and everyone else call it GODS country, wow its beautiful. As Shelley and I drove through the mountains from Idaho into Montana listening to the cd I made for you, we cried we laughed I said my goodbyes to you. Ride hard and ride free brother. Till we meet again!! XOXO I LOVE AND MISS YOU MORE THEN ANYONE KNOWS.
Miket Stephens
July 12, 2010
Well Pop's it's been a year and I miss the heck out of you, and have always from the first day that I was brought into your family lucky. Your always within me everything I do is with you. Thanks again for everything that you have given me and still give me in my life.. Love always Mikey
Grand Canyon Trip 2008
Janet Nitzel
July 8, 2010
Janet Nitzel
July 8, 2010
Ed,I felt today's date appropriate to light this candle being the day of heartfelt last words spoken last year upon transfer to hospice. May it continue to represent not ever leaving your side through your final days. I love and miss you more than ever, and I will be at your side through eternity. Your soulmate forever, Janet
Carla Whittington
December 26, 2009
Well I made it through Xmas but the ride was bumpy..... I miss you more then words could ever describe or more then anyone could or would ever realize. :-( I hung only part of the lights at the folk’s house ... it just wasn't the same, without your help, but it was important for me to do. Keep up the great work from above... keeping our family safe and out of harms way. Merry Christmas Big brother.... I miss you!
Love your "lil" sis Carla
Carla Whittington
October 24, 2009
On this morning of your 57th Birthday I thought I’d write you a note!!
I miss you more then anyone would ever imagine, I can't tell you how many times I've picked up the phone to call you then realizing half way through dialing that your not there to answer it. This saddens me deeply.
You have sent me many signs that you still are hanging round; you’re a funny guy putting scorpions on my ground!!! Thanks big brother for the message, it was well received, next time send a flower or kick me in my knee!!!!
Every time I start thinking sad I can hear your voice as if you are standing next to me saying "lil sis put on your big girl panties and deal with it," so that is what I do.
I love and miss you big brother forever and always your little sister
”C”
Janet Nitzel
August 24, 2009
As I reflect on today, our 35th wedding anniversary, I would like to share the thoughts I think Ed and I would both share...with the first being my personal note.
Ed – I love and miss you more than words can ever express.
To our children and their families – you’ve gone above and beyond in keeping your promise to Dad to take care of me…he would be proud.
To our family near and far – celebrate this day as we would have.
To all the friends and co-workers, past and present, who were able to attend the memorial or kept us in your hearts through your kindness of words, cards, tokens of remembrance, postings, or a silent prayer…your expressions of support brought much comfort.
To those that kept this guestbook open in Ed’s memory…thank you.
Love to you all and God Bless,
Janet
Eric Brovich
July 21, 2009
Hey, Uncle Ed, I know your fine wherever you are because you are just one tough son of a gun! I thought I'd share a funny memory! My last memory of you is actually quite funny and I assure you, I will never forget it! As you stood in our kitchen here in the Jersey house, you leaned back and with both hands on your stomach rubbing your gut, up and down, said, "Hey whats up, kiddo?!"...For everyone reading this (its one of those things where you just have to be there)! My Uncle Ed always had this way to get you to laugh, even if he wasnt trying! It was that day I realized this was indeed a signature thing you had going on! Haha.. It seems that every time I saw you thereafter; one of these was involved with a hug! I thought i'd share this with you and those who might be reading! When they say its the little things that count, well it sure is; because this is the small memory about you that will always be most vivid to me and one that will come to mind 1st when I think of you! I love ya!
July 20, 2009
Dear Janet and Family:
Steve and I were so sorry to hear about your loss. Your grief must be tremendous. Please know that we will keep you and your loved ones in our thoughts and prayers.
Steve and Louise Newhard
Barbara Ward
July 20, 2009
My Dear Janet: The loss you feel must be enormous! I was so grateful that I was able to connect with Eddie in this last months. He still had his humor. I guess all of our humor has "matured" over the years (or not)!
My sympathies and prayers go out to you and your children, and to "Bleach" and Laura and the rest of the family. May you find peace and comfort in the many memories you shared with Eddie.
In sympathy and friendship, Barbara
tootsie bleicher
July 19, 2009
my deepest sympathy to your family, i have many happy memories of eddie, taking over the principal office in high school ,he made the front page of the record. our chilhood memories will last forever, july 20th watching the men walk on the moon together with my friends, the friendship i have with his family, please be at peace, love forever, tootsie
Carla Whittington
July 19, 2009
WOW in your picture you look larger then life, but in my eyes you were always larger then life! Being your baby sister wasn't always the easiest position to hold ....... but I have and will always be proud and honored to have been your "lil" sister.
May the Lord keep you by his side so you can watch over our family and keep us out of harms way, doing I guess what angels do! I will love and miss you more then anyone will ever realize big brother.
Peace and Love now forever and always. "Lil" Sis. Carla
Jenn Ruesch
July 17, 2009
Eddie,
I always remember hearing you pull up at Carla's on your motorcycle, my lil one Jourdy would always say " Uncle Eddy's here" You were a special person with so many unique qualities you will be deeply missed by many. With love and prayers to the family. We love ya Eddy you were quite a special person.
Joanne D'Auria & Jim Hoover
July 17, 2009
Ed was my best friend in the late 1960's - early 1970's until life took us separate ways for a couple of decades. I am very grateful we reconnected via the Internet and took up our friendship where we left off. We stayed in touch long distance for the last 10+ years and even had a reunion of old friends when Janet and he visited NJ a few years back. I will always treasure that reunion and will miss Ed terribly.
Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Ed's wife, children and other family members.
Bob Nelson
July 17, 2009
My deepest sympathy to Ed and His Family. I see he has touched many lives and always remember he will be in your heart and memories forever. When I was in grammar school he lived a block away and we were best friends until I moved.
Susan Goers
July 17, 2009
I am so sorry to hear about Ed's passing. My therapy dog, Baylee, and I only knew him through our visits at the hospital, but it was easy to see what a special man he was. He and Baylee quickly became friends and I'm not sure which one of them enjoyed the visits more.
Cindy Sabella
July 17, 2009
Our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Ed, he has given us a lifetime of memories, a lifetime of laughter, seeing the love of his family, music and friends will last a lifetime.
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