Edward Angus Walburn, age 97, of Ellenton, FL, formerly of Bear Lake and Greenville, MI, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2024. A beloved father, grandfather, and friend, Ed lived a life of purpose, service, and joy, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Born on June 28, 1927, in Muskegon, MI, Ed was the son of Angus and Marie (Hansen) Walburn. He attended Green Creek, a one-room schoolhouse, through 8th grade before graduating from North Muskegon High School in 1944. At age 17, he answered the call to serve, joining the U.S. Army during World War II. Ed excelled in the A-12 Army Specialized Training Program, studying at the University of Illinois and Michigan State University. After completing basic training at Camp Robinson in Little Rock, AR, he served overseas as a supply sergeant in an M.P. unit.

Upon returning home, Ed began his career with the Muskegon County Road Commission, operating heavy equipment. In 1959, he moved to Bear Lake, purchasing Shreve Hardware and transforming it into Bear Lake Hardware, which he ran for 13 years. Known as "Mr. Asphalt," Ed later became a superintendent-manager for the Manistee County Road Commission and spent 35 years estimating projects for Laman Asphalt and Ron Brown & Sons, retiring at age 78.

Ed's contributions to his community were numerous and impactful. He co-founded the Bear Lake County Highlands Golf Course in 1965 and was a dedicated member of the Bear Lake Lions Club for over 50 years. He served as a trustee on the Bear Lake School Board for nine years, was an active member of the Bear Lake United Methodist Church, and held life memberships in the VFW, American Legion, The Rod and Gun Club and Elks Lodge 250. A generous spirit, Ed donated more than 18 gallons of blood during his lifetime.

Ed married Viola Bond in 1976, sharing many happy years until her passing in 2005. Later, he found companionship with Charlotte Hejl, who preceded him in death in 2009. More recently, Ed spent many wonderful years with his very special friend Marilyn Nielsen, who brought great joy to his life. Marilyn had a knack for beating Ed at cards—a feat he good-naturedly admired—and together they spent time in Michigan and Florida.

A lifelong golf enthusiast, one of Ed's proudest and most cherished moments was watching his great-grandson, Parker, win the U.S. Junior Amateur Qualifier at Grand Valley Meadows. Ed often spoke of this as one of the highlights of his life. He also took immense pride in maintaining a pristine and beautifully kept yard, spending countless hours ensuring his yard reflected his meticulous care and love of the outdoors.

In addition to his family, Ed's life was enriched by the friendships he cultivated. His two best lifelong friends, Bob and Pat Eisenlohr, held a special place in his heart. Bob preceded him in death in 2023, and Pat remains part of Ed's enduring legacy of love and camaraderie.

Ed is survived by his children, Kenneth Walburn of Bear Lake, Mari Kay Walburn, and Michael Walburn of Montana; his niece Peggy Jarman of Bradenton, FL; nephew Tom Rose of Traverse City, MI; stepchildren Candace Bond of Grand Rapids, MI, Julie (Tim) Keillor of Lithia, FL, Robert (Marcia) Bond of Bear Lake, MI, and Brenda Bond of Indian Land, SC; his brother-in-law Larry Keillor of Bear Lake, MI; sister-in-law Judith Johnson of Comstock Park, MI; seven grandchildren, Dylan Walburn, Tim Walburn, James (Michelle) Bond, Wesley (Laura) Bond, Amy Keillor, Andy (Linda) Keillor, and Tim (Heather) Keillor; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cherished friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife Viola, companion Charlotte Hejl, sister Mary Lou Fielstra, brother-in-law Art Fielstra, niece Patti Rose, and lifelong friend Bob Eisenlohr.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at Woods Hall in Terra Siesta, Ellenton, FL. Interment will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the Salvation Army, Manatee Meals on Wheels, Tidewell Hospice, or the American Diabetes Association.

Please share a memory or photo with the family at www.oakgrovefh.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home Manistee, and Covell Funeral Home of Bradenton, FL.