Edward Witters

It is with great sadness that the family of Edward "Ed" Witters, 86, of Kirkland, IL. announces his passing on August 8th, 2025.

Born February 12th, 1939, in Sioux City, Iowa, Edward attended Sacred Heart and enlisted into the Armed Forces at the age of 16. He served our country proudly from 1955 to 1960, where he was in an accident in France and spent 2 years in a body cast. Edward moved to Rockford, IL in 1963 where he was a dedicated machine shop manager for 35 years and an owner of the well-known "Witters Concessions" for 37 years.

Ed married the love of his life, Loretta Witters, on July 22, 1961; They were blessed with 62 beautiful years together.

Ed will be lovingly remembered by his three children, Arlo (Susie) Witters, Sandy Morgan, and David (Connie) Witters; his wonderful grandchildren, Ashley Ricci, Caleb and Casey; and his amazing, great grandchildren, Allyson, Michael and Antonio; along with his great-great-grandchildren, Braxton, Cohen, William, and Lyllian. Ed will also be fondly remembered by his two sisters, Charlyn Ohle and Diane Starin; along with many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his wife Loretta ( Klemmensen) Witters; parents, Arlo, and Virginia (Ryan) Witters; sister Arlene (Witters) Nicolls; and two sons-in-law, Bob Morgan and Mike Ricci.

Ed was a warrior with a compassionate soul, his honor and strength will never be forgotten. He will forever and always be "Papa" to many. There are countless words to describe this man we all knew and loved, but his family can all say, he was our hero.

Visitation will be from 10 AM to 12 PM Saturday, August 23rd, 2025 at Olson's Quiram Kirkland Chapel, 309 S 5th St., Kirkland, IL 60146. Burial will follow at the family plot at Roselyn Cemetery, E. Crill Road. Fairdale. Celebration of life will be held at the Kirkland Fire Station, 3891 Illinois Route 72, Kirkland, IL 60146, where the doors will be open at 11 AM for the gathering.