Edward "Ed" Shabnow

Edward James Shabnow, known affectionately as Ed, peacefully passed away on October 30, 2024, at the age of 94 at Ebeid Hospice surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 4, 1930, Ed had a zest for life, a deep love for his family, resounding faith, and a distinguished career.

Ed loved his country and was a proud veteran. He graduated from Macomber High School and joined the Airforce where he completed Airplane Maintenance Fundamentals at USC College of Aeronautics and went on to work on the B-29 bombers. In 2012, Ed was proud to join the Honor Flight for World War II and Korean War Veterans with some of his buddies.

His professional life was dedicated to carpentry, where he excelled as a Master Finish Carpenter for Berman Builders, displaying his artful skills and talents. He never entered a room without examining the handy work and always did things the right way. One of his proudest accomplishments was building his own family home from the bottom up including the masonry work and, the self-described, “exceptional” basement that nurtured countless family gatherings.

He had a wide array of hobbies that included riding and racing motorcycles, rolling skating, studying history, and all types of creative projects and artistry.

Perhaps Ed's most beloved piece of his life was spending time with his wife, Bobbie. Through their 65 years of marriage, they shared a passion for dancing, landscaping, and entertaining a host of celebrations and events that brought their family and friends together in an incredible way. Holidays, casino parties and even weddings in the backyard have built traditions and memories that will last forever. He especially loved dancing with his lovely bride to Johnny Knorr big band music and in younger days the kids would get to picnic in the living room while Ed and Bobbie danced to Lawerence Welk.

Ed loved to learn and was a natural teacher. He especially enjoyed sharing this with his kids and grandchildren through travel, exploration, and the sharing of America’s history. He led many weekend trips that often included visiting a covered bridge or the Ohio Bicentennial barns.

Ed was a devout member of Providence Lutheran Church in Holland, Ohio. He was deeply involved in the church community, teaching Sunday school and serving as Sunday school superintendent and on the property team. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding him in his actions and beliefs.

It is impossible to summarize the life of a man so special and strong. Ed will be deeply missed by many but especially his family. He instilled life lessons, the value of family and the importance of living everyday with faith, love, and respect. He leaves many cherished memories his children and grandchildren will carry with them forever.

Ed leaves behind his beloved spouse, Barbara (Bobbie), children Darcy (Bruce) MacPherson, Robin (Steve) Sohnly, Darin Shabnow, and Tim (Kim) Shabnow, as well as Mark (Andrea) Tunison, who he considered a son. His legacy continues through his 7 grandchildren, Sam (Sothea) Sohnly, Garret Sohnly, Gracyn Shabnow, Jason (Angel) Tunison, Lucas (Katelyn) Tunison, Corey (Hunter) Wyckoff, Evan Wyckoff and 4 great-grandchildren, with another on the way. Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred and Clarence (Jimmy) Shabnow, stepfather Ralph Vogt, sisters Garnet (Joe) Sarkisian, Jeanette (Herb) Greenfield, stepsister Janet (John) Simmons, brother Gene Shabnow, and in-laws Lucille and Walter Tunison.

Visitation will be held at Sunrise Life Celebrations, 7438 Airport Hwy., Holland, OH, from 4 to 8:00pm on Wednesday, November 6, 2024. A service will follow on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at Providence Lutheran Church at 11:30am, preceded by an additional visitation from 10:30-11:30am.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Providence Lutheran Church in memory of Ed, honoring his commitment to his faith and community.