Edward Mihelich

MIHELICH, Edward June 11, 1911 - April 30, 2005
Edward Mihelich, born June 11, 1911 in Calumet, Michigan to William and Mary Mihelich, Croatian immigrants, was next to youngest of twelve children. Mother died when Edward was 5, leaving father to raise twelve children. This necessitated a family move to a farm in Paw Paw, Michigan. Edward began his musical career in high school playing Clarinet, Trombone, Bassoon, Tuba and favorite, his Bass Viol, later affectionately naming her, "Gracie". After graduating from high school, Ed's musical career began with small bands, traveling and doing "Gigs" throughout the Midwest. It was in Minnesota that Ed met and married Berniece Eve Rose on June 3, 1935, moving to Chicago, Illinois. In 1937, their daughter, Patricia Rose was born. By the early 1940's Ed's musical career was in full swing, playing with numerous top-name big bands including Charlie Barnet, Artie Shaw, Gene Krupa, Harry James and many more. Singer greats like Frank Sinatra and others were part of the experience as well. Ed continued his musical career well into his late 80's with many small groups and larger groups with "Big Band" sound. Ed was a good and caring father. He gave much love and support to his daughter Pat during her battle with cancer, she passed away in 2004. Ed had a quick smile, a great sense of humor, was a good listener, pleasant, amicable, gracious, generous, dapper, and energetic. His love for family came first. He took great pride in his cooking and gardening, a master of both. Edward is survived by his granddaughter Laura and his great grandchildren Jeffrey and Taylor as well as many relatives scattered throughout the Midwest from his eleven brothers and sisters. A memorial service will be held in Edward's honor on Tuesday, May 24, 1:00 PM, at San Clemente Presbyterian Church, Stevens Chapel.