Ed Sandwell
Edmond R. Sandwell, 81, of Marion, died June 27, 2004.
Born Dec. 10, 1922, in the Spring Branch community, he was the son of Oswald and Mary (Winkley) Sandwell.
A 1939 graduate of Marion High School, he worked for the Rock Island Railroad and the Cubby Hole Diner until he enlisted in the U.S. Army.
He served in the European Theater as a sergeant with the 149 Engineering Battalion until December 1945.
On June 17, 1946, he married Philomene Shramek at Pilsen. The couple had a son, John, born in 1949.
After working for a grocery store in Ness City, the couple purchased the Sanitary Market from Clive Jarvis in 1948, which they operated for 20 years.
In 1968 Ed joined the staff of the Corps of Engineers at Marion Reservoir. He retired in 1986.
His life was one of service. He served his country during World War II and his community as a commander of the American Legion post in 1951 and 1977. He also was a life member of the VFW.
He was a member of the organizing committee of St. Mark Catholic Church, Marion, where he remained a tireless volunteer. He was a longtime member of Marion Chamber of Commerce and Marion Kiwanis Club, where he had 18 years perfect attendance. He also was a member of the Moose Lodge and served on the ambulance crew from 1971-1984.
After retirement, he worked for Zeiner Funeral Home from 1986-1996, assisting countless families with his gracious demeanor.
He enjoyed the outdoors and that was reflected in his quest for perfection in landscaping. He also spent years painting homes throughout the area. Ed was an avid bowler and KU sports fan and enjoyed following the accomplishments of his grandchildren.
In 1984, he married Marjorie Bauman. He enjoyed the annual reunion of his Army battalion, whom he considered the brothers he never had.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his first wife, Phil.
Survivors include his wife, Marjorie; son and daughter-in-law, John and Judy Sandwell of Evansville, Ind.; stepdaughter and her husband, Linda and Charles Zadow; stepson, J.D. Bauman; 10 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
The rosary was recited Tuesday evening at Holy Family Parish, Marion.
The funeral Mass was said at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday morning with Father Nick Voelker officiating.
Casket bearers were Bob Kelly, Forrest Smith, Forrest Kelsey, Earl Mueller, Bruce Padgham, Francis Jirak, Charles Heerey, and Dale Smith.
Burial was in Marion Cemetery with full military honors.
