Edward Joseph Kane

Edward Joseph Kane

August 4, 1945 – July 11, 2024

Edward Joseph Kane (78) passed away on July 11, 2024, in Hospice of Northwest Ohio Ebeid Hospice Center, succumbing to a brief illness. He spent his last weeks surrounded by his family and beloved dog, Corduroy.

Ed was born on August 4, 1945, in Monroe, Michigan, to Mary Catherine (Assenmacher) and Joseph Kane. He was a 1964 graduate of Monroe High School, where he was a talented member of the men’s swimming team. Ed worked as a lifeguard for several years of his life. After graduating from high school, Ed served in the United States Navy from 1964 to 1967. In 1966, Ed married his first wife, Judith Ornosky. After his honorable discharge from the Navy, he worked at La-Z-Boy before working for Ford Motor Company for the rest of his career, retiring in October of 2001.

On July 31, 2000, he married the former Kristin (Whitmer) Heck. Ed’s life after retirement was filled with the joy of being a stay-at-home father. He shared his love for animals, fishing, cooking, and swimming with his children. Ed’s hobbies included watching movies, roller skating, painting, bird watching, and spending time outdoors with his dogs. He loved to attend his children’s sporting and academic events. He also enjoyed volunteering at St. John the Baptist Catholic School, working in the cafeteria.

Ed was a committed member of the Monroe Commission on the Environment and Water Quality (COTE) for several years. His passion for the environment and animals has left a lasting impact on the community. This year’s annual River Raisin Cleanup, on August 10, will be dedicated to his memory.

Ed is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Kristin Kane of Monroe; sons Jeffrey (Lisa) Kane of Monroe, Peter (Kristin) Kane of Monroe, and Noah Kane of Monroe; daughters Megan and Riley Kane of Monroe; and stepsons Jacob (Amanda Kelmer) Heck of Monroe, and Justin (Jessica) Heck of Temperance; grandchildren Justin Kane, Kennedi Kane, Colin Kane, and McKenzie Kane; great-grandchild Kylo Duffin; brother Donald (Rose) Kane of Holly; and sister Mary Jo Windels of Monroe.

Ed’s friends and family described him as charismatic, open-minded, creative, understanding, and loving. He was proud of his children and their success, which he shared with anyone he spoke to.

Edward Kane and his contagious laugh will be dearly missed. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 4, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Banquet Hall, 202 West Front St. Monroe, MI, 48161. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society of Monroe County and the City of Monroe River Cleanup Fund.

Online condolences to the family may be sent by visiting www.ruppfuneralhome.com.