Edward James Ziegler

Edward James Ziegler of Jackson, Michigan passed away June 21, 2023 at the age of 89.

Born September 29, 1933, to Clarence and Alice (Conlan) Ziegler, Ed grew up in Jackson, Redford, MI, and Waynesboro, Pennsylvania. Early on, he developed an interest in all things mechanical, following in the footsteps of his father.  He graduated from St Mary’s High School in 1952. After serving time in a tank division in the U.S. Army in Germany, Ed became  mechanical engineer for Yard Man, where he was part of a team that developed several patents, including one for a riding lawn mower.  He later moved to Clark Equipment. He travelled on assignment for Clark to Romania and found himself in the center of the 1977 Vrancia earthquake.  

After Clark, Ed worked as a contractor and later founded and operated Design Concepts, which specialized in mechanical design and prototype production 

Standing at 6 feet 4 inches, he was imposing in both stature and talent. Ed had the ability to design and build almost anything: homes furniture, and cars.  More often than not, he could be found with a tool in his hand.  He had the knack for making anything he touched just a bit better. Collecting, restoring, and building classic cars and woodworking were his lifelong passions. 

Ed possessed a strong faith and he loved his family, who sometimes were at the receiving end of his witty one-liners. All of those who knew him and loved him will miss him greatly Ed leaves behind his wife of 44 years, Gena, and children Steve (Shelly) Ziegler, Jeff Ziegler, Dale (Kim) Kurtz, all of Jackson; Julie Ziegler (Matthias Mordi) of Washington DC; and Kathy Allardyce of Birmingham. Blessed with nine grandchildren: Courtney (Bryce) Thelen, Kyle (Katie) Ziegler, Annie (Matt) Weide, Max Mordi, Xander Mordi, Carli Cole, Jason (Kursten) Allardyce, Ryan (Sarah) Kurtz, and Sarah (Matt) VanNuys. His ten great grandchildren made him smile every time they visited.

There will be a Celebration of his Life on Saturday, June 24, 2023 at 2:00pm at Watson Funeral Chapel, 2590 Spring Arbor Road, Jackson, MI with Fr. Satheesh Alphonse officiating.  Visitation will begin at 1:00 pm until the time of service. 

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